DNA analysis shows that the terrier breeds are relatively new, developing in Europe in the 19th century. Much of the proliferation of terriers took place in the United Kingdom. Both long- and short-legged breeds exist, depending on whether they were bred to chase prey above ground or into burrows.
Terriers are sometimes described as being 20-pound (9-kg) dogs with a 200-pound (90-kg) attitude. Indeed, they are intelligent, alert, and fearless. Their traditional function was as varmint killers, and many of the breeds were developed to dig right into animals’ burrows to root them out.
These were not hunting dogs who went on the hunt with their owners but dogs who were always on patrol, ready to take on rats, foxes, or badgers—often vicious animals considerably larger than the feisty dogs. The bravery of terriers is legendary, but it is a vital part of their behavioral repertoire.
Even a small rodent is a formidable adversary when cornered, and terriers often have to confront larger, fiercer prey like foxes and badgers. Standing up to such a foe at the end of a burrow in the dark certainly requires true courage, and the fact that these dogs routinely do this successfully attests to their strength, agility, and killing instincts as well.
Terriers as Pets
Almost all terriers today are kept as pets, not as working dogs. Some of the toy terrier breeds were developed specifically as companion animals.
The relatively small size of most terriers is one attraction, but their perky independence also endears them to people, and their energetic attentiveness is easily channeled into a variety of games, making them pint-sized playmates.
Some terriers can be a bit feisty for homes with small children, and they tend to view smaller pets as prey.
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