Terriers are bold and energetic dogs that may not go well with other pets. Here is a brief overview of the characteristics of different terrier mix breeds.
It is a delightful experience to have a terrier mix dog at home. Terriers are brave, mischievous, energetic, active, fearless, independent, playful, and cheerful. However, without proper training, they can be stubborn, and cause a lot of problems.
Those who are planning to adopt a terrier mix must have a basic understanding about their characteristics, so that the dog can be trained properly at a young age. You may come across a variety of terrier dog breeds with different genetic makeup. Their characteristics may also vary slightly, as one of their parents belong to a different breed.
Temperament
All terrier mix dogs do have some common characteristics, which they inherit from their terrier parent. Terriers are basically warriors and hunters, and they are extremely brave, energetic, and agile. But when they are with humans, these dogs display an interesting spectrum of temperaments and mood dispositions. Many of the macho terrier dog breeds such as, Jack Russel Terrier, Border Terrier, and Airedale Terrier, have taller and sturdy bodies.
On the other hand, Cairn Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, and Welsh Terrier are small-sized dogs that are very warm and cute. But at the same time, they are intelligent, bright, tenacious, and fearless, irrespective of their size and shape. They can be friendly with people, if they are socialized properly. It is highly important that these dogs go through proper obedience training.
You may also seek help from professional dog trainers who know the tricks of the trade and can help you to train your dog well. Given below is a list of some of the most popular terrier mix breeds and their characteristics.
Airedale Terrier
Intelligent, confident, friendly, stylish, playful, and brave.
Australian Terrier
Energetic, affectionate, loyal, brave, and spirited.
Irish Terrier
Active, bold, loyal, alert, reckless, and curious.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Lively, alert, smart, loyal, energetic, and people-oriented.
Manchester Terrier
Active, well-mannered, observant, spirited, independent, and loyal.
Jack Russell Terrier
Energetic, spirited, loving, devoted, and friendly towards people.
Scottish Terrier
Brave, cheerful, gentle, loving, confident, and sensitive.
Yorkshire Terrier
Mischievous, outgoing, glamorous, and affectionate.
Welsh Terrier
Friendly, fun-loving, cheerful, energetic, and loyal.
Skye Terrier
Loyal, devoted, courageous, good-natured, brave, and sensitive.
Miniature Schnauzer
Active, alert, lively, playful, friendly, obedient, intelligent, and smart.
Sealyham Terrier
Curious, alert, outgoing, and friendly.
Bull Terrier
Loyal, charming, mischievous, playful, friendly, brave, and loving.
Bedlington Terrier
Charming, fun-loving, loyal, alert, energetic, and intelligent.
Cairn Terrier
Strong, sensible, friendly, independent, alert, busy, and cheerful.
Border Terrier
Sensible, affectionate, happy, good-natured, alert, and energetic.
Lakeland Terrier
Affectionate, bold, intelligent, friendly, curious, confident, and entertaining.
Wire Fox Terrier
Affectionate, alert, intelligent, confident, brave, cheerful,and playful.
Care
Food
Terrier mix dogs are not very choosy when it comes to food. You can give them any commercial well-balanced dog food. It is better to avoid foods with wheat and corn. You can give them bones or raw meat or any kind of poultry meal. But make sure not to overfeed these dogs and get them into the habit of eating at fixed times. Dry food is preferable for terrier mix dogs. But wet food can be given twice or thrice a week.
Exercises
As you know, terrier breeds are hunter dogs. So it is important that you engage them in physical activities so that they get an outlet to release their pent-up energy. You can take them for a walk in the garden or a playground. Treasure hunt and hide and seek are the best games for these playful dogs.
Grooming
It is important that you wash and bath these dogs regularly or occasionally, as per their breed and requirement. Get a proper grooming kit and make use of it, to keep your terrier dog presentable and smart. You can give them nice haircuts, or keep the hair shorter as per your choice. Many of the terrier mix dogs do not shed.
Health
With proper diet and exercises, it is nearly impossible that they would fall sick. But it is advisable to pay attention to their health and take them for regular check up. Pay attention to their emotional health, by spending quality time with them, and by showering them with love, care, and affection.
In short, terrier mix dogs are highly energetic and active. They need to be properly trained and socialized. So, try to understand the characteristics of the specific breed, if you want to adopt a terrier.
