Most Terrier dogs, both purebreds and hybrids, are known for their feisty character in their mostly small bodies, and have gained a reputation as a highly intelligent but very raunchy pup. The word Terrier however, is a name given to a breed of dogs, ranging in sizes from toy pups to being as big as the Airedale Terrier. Most Terriers can be categorized by certain distinct physical characteristics and personality traits, and have come to be known by the world as one of the best and most active purebreds of all time.
Breeders over the years have begun to mix Terrier breeds with a variety of other purebreds such as the Labrador Retriever, Dachshund or even bull dogs such as Pitbulls. These hybrids have risen to popularity very quickly and have increased the demand for more Terrier mixed pups, but it is important to note that the Terrier mixed with certain purebreds may do more harm than good.
Terriers originally date back to Ireland and England, and were mainly used as working dogs to control and get rid of rats, rabbits and even foxes. In the mid 20th century however, a peak in dog shows and activities resulted in Terriers being mixed with a host of other dogs to form the perfect competitor. This mixed breeding continued to the late 20th century, when blood sports became popular, and Terriers were mixed with more aggressive dogs such as bull dogs and hounds, to create the ideal fighting machine.
Fast forward to the present day, and Terriers have become even more popular than before. This has continued to peak the demand for Terrier hybrids, but before you head out to get your new pup, here are some features of the Terrier that you need to know about.
Features of a Terrier Mix Breed
- Appearance – A Terrier hybrid will not automatically guarantee a small or toy pup. Dogs in the Terrier breed can range in size from toy pups, who are very small and lightweight, averaging no more than 6 lbs, to bigger versions such as the Airedale Terrier, who can weigh up to 70 lbs. Their coats vary in texture from being soft and silky to being thick and rough depending on their size. Larger Terrier dogs normally have a thicker outer layer and coat than smaller Terrier pups who normally have silky smooth straight fur.
- Temperament – Terriers are known for their small bodies but big personality, and are normally confident and proud. Despite their size, these dogs own any room they walk into, and love to be the center of attention. They are normally very active and playful, and require activities that keep them both physically and mentally challenged. They are loyal, caring and devoted to their owners, but at times they can be a little mischievous, so ensure you keep an eye on them.
- Health & Physical Activity – Terriers are very playful and energetic dogs, so they do require a little more maintenance than the average dog. They should be given at least 30 minutes of exercise for the day, or they tend to become restless and fidgety. They enjoy long walks and backyard play sessions, and are very easy to train in scheduled activities such as dog shows and competitions. A majority of Terrier mixes will require adequate physical activity, so ensure they get their play time and they’ll be the perfect companion.
These features are normally present in most Terrier mixes, despite the dominant parental gene, so ensure you prepare to be actively engaged with your pup before getting this hybrid. Still thinking of getting a Terrier mix? Here are some of the most popular hybrids that you can adopt today.
- Chihuahua Terrier Mix – This is one of the most popular Terrier mixed breeds and normally crosses smaller breeds of Terriers with the Chihuahua to form the perfect toy pup. The two most known Chihuahua Terrier mixes are the Chorkies, a mixture of Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas and the Ratchis, a mixture of Rat Terriers and Chihuahuas. These dogs are known for their feisty personality, and have a bit more mature bark for their tiny size, but their confidence makes them one of the best pups to have.
- Poodle Terrier Mix – These pups are normally small, but rarely get to teacup size. Very small mixes can develop severe health issues after time, which cannot be treated. The most common forms of Poodle Terrier mixes are the Yorkiepoo, a mixture of the Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle, the Westiepoo, a mixture of the West Highland White Terrier and the Poodle and the Jackapoo, a mixture of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Poodle. All three hybrids tend to have wavy or curly hair, and normally range from a toy dog to being as much as 40 pounds.
- Beagle Terrier Mix – This hybrid creates the Raggle, a mixture of the Rat Terrier and the Beagle, and the Jack A Bee, a mixture of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Beagle. Jack A Bees are known for their loving and affectionate demeanor to their owners, and are normally small to medium sized dogs with short haired coats Raggles on the other hand tend to be affectionate to almost everybody, and also shares the same small to medium sized stature with a short coat.
- Dachshund Terrier Mix – Perhaps the most popular Terrier hybrid of all is the Dachshund Terrier mix, popularly known as Yorkies and Jackshunds. Dorkies are a result of combining Dachshunds with Yorkshire, Cairn or Fox Terriers, and Jackshunds are a result of combining Jack Russell Terriers with Dachshunds. A major concern of this hybrid is that they are prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease or IDD. This condition affects the spinal cord and can lead to lameness and even paralysis.
- Lab Terrier Mix – As the name suggests, this hybrid is a combination of the Labrador Retriever and larger Terriers such as Airedale Terriers, or Pitbull Terriers. These produce what are known as Lab’Aires and Pitadors. They are normally medium to large in size and tend to be very active and playful. They are dgs to add to the family with proper socialisation and training.
Now that you have all the information, go ahead and choose the best Terrier mix for you!