Long before we humans had the local pest control man to call, we had terriers to do the dirty work for us. Terriers were the right tool for the job, genetically designed for fearless, unrelenting pursuit of their targets, and with the athleticism necessary to carry out the mission. With keen senses and quick responses to the slightest hint of disturbance, these terriers didn’t stop at warning rodents and foxes away. They finished the job no matter what, so that the pesky little animals wouldn’t return or multiply.

Since then, terriers have been wonderful companions to people, living in and around their homes and businesses in order to protect the spoils within the walls. The terrier legacy may not be for the faint of heart, but it’s undeniably impressive for its value to humankind. Each dog carries this family history in its blood today; the terrier is a natural-born “critter getter” even in modern times.

Upbringing

When raising a terrier, it is important to prepare her for the moments in life that are likely to present the greatest challenges given her vermin-hunting ancestry. You can deliberately introduce her to things like cats, pet rats, other little dogs, running children, etc., in her early months to buffer against the behaviors that she carries in her DNA. If you find yourself with a terrier baby, your primary goal beyond basic socialization should be to raise her to think that other small animals are NOT the target of her instincts. Instead show her how the dozens (yes, dozens) of stuffed animals you bring home for her to disembowel are the proper subjects on which she may unleash her wrath.

The New Book of the Dog; A Comprehensive Natural History Of British Dogs And Their Foreign Relatives, With Chapters On Law, Breeding, Kennel Management, And Veterinary Treatment (1907, Cassell).

Interests and Hobbies

Your terrier is totally turned on by fast-moving objects and small fuzzy squeaking things. The smell, sound, or sight of rodents and other similar critters is extremely exciting to her. She lives for the opportunity of a good chase or the prospect of a little competition. Welcoming a good challenge, she is skilled at both physical and mental debate.

She loves puzzles, games, and problems to solve of almost every variety. Her generally strong and athletic design inspires a passion for engaging exercise that includes obstacles and complex stunts. She is driven to hard work and persistence, and is focused and intense about the activities she enjoys. To be happy, she needs plenty of outlets for her tenacious spirit as well as opportunities for meeting new challenges. These things are meaningful to her on a deep genetic level.

Education