People familiar with terriers invariably comment on their distinctive personality. Terriers typically have little tolerance for other animals, including other dogs. Many continue to project the attitude that they're always eager for a spirited argument. In general, they make engaging pets, but require owners with the determination to match their dogs' lively characters.

The Airedale has a sweet disposition, but when challenged, is not afraid to stand up for himself. Obedience training is important for these quick learners.

The American Staffordshire terrier is a people-oriented dog that thrives when he is made part of the family and given a job to do. Although friendly, this breed is loyal to his family and will protect them from any threat.

Australian terriers are spirited, alert and courageous, but also friendly and affectionate around humans. They can adapt to rural or urban dwellings and they do well with a family or someone living alone.

The Bedlington has a mild and gentle temperament and is neither fussy nor mischievous. The breed is an energetic playmate for children but not overly rambunctious. Regular playtime and walks will keep the Bedlington fit and in high spirits. The coat requires trimming by an experienced groomer to keep it in proper form.

While he is as hard as nails in the field, the Border Terrier is good tempered and affectionate in the home. He learns quickly and responds well to obedience training.

Bull Terriers become very attached to their owners and families and do not thrive when left alone. The breed loves children, but obedience training is necessary.

Best known as Toto from "The Wizard of Oz," the Cairn Terrier loves his families but may try to test his owners' limits, so obedience training is necessary.

Cesky terriers are loyal family members who require continued socialization throughout their lives due to their reserved nature towards strangers. They are an active breed and, like most terriers, love to dig. Ceskys require a moderate amount of grooming with monthly clippings. A secure backyard where the breed can get regular exercise is strongly recommended.

As a companion, the Dandie Dinmont is affectionate towards his family, but it would not be uncharacteristic for a Dandie to show little interest in a stranger. The breed would do well in a rural or urban setting with daily walks.

When working, the Glen is active, agile, silent, and intent upon its game; otherwise, he can be a docile companion for families with older children. A real terrier of considerable substance and temperament, this breed is a harsh-coated breed that requires stripping twice a year. Hair should also be removed from under the tail, the ears, and from between the pads.

The Irish Terrier is a smart, quick dog that quickly adapts to new situations. He'll guard his home and family members with determination and pluck.

Energetic and fun-loving, the Kerry Blue Terrier enjoys being part of a family. They possess a typical terrier personality and require daily exercise and firm, patient training.

The Lakeland is bold, friendly, and confident but has a quiet disposition. While he is well suited for a variety of living situations, including rural and urban settings, the Lakeland's energy level makes him well suited for an active lifestyle.

The Manchester Terrier is a lively, sharp-witted breed that is eager to learn. The breed is extremely loyal to its owner(s) and forms a strong bond early on.

The strongly built, active, and determined miniature bull terrier is often described as clownish and fearless. Although fond of both grown-ups and children, they may become too energetic for small children without the proper exercise and training. They are not recommended for families with other non-canine pets such as hamsters and guinea pigs. This easy-to-groom breed requires only occasional brushing.

This diminutive breed adapts easily to any living situation and loves children if the two are introduced while the dog is under a year of age.

Energetic and spry, the Norfolk Terrier does well with other animals and families. They are known for their ability to adapt to different situations, making the breed ideal for either the city or country lifestyle.

Fearless and loyal, the Norwich Terrier does well with other animals and families. They are known for their ability to adapt to different situations, making the breed ideal for either a city or country lifestyle.

Outgoing and friendly, the Parson is tenacious in the field and affectionate in the home. No matter the venue, the breed is filled with energy, so he requires regular exercise and attention.

Scotties thrive as house pets and are gentle, loving members of their families. Their spirited natures require obedience training, and they need regular exercise (on leash, as the chase instinct is strong).

This proud, compact, sturdy little dog makes an ideal companion. Charming and inquisitive, he loves his family, but as a spirited terrier breed, needs something to keep his active mind occupied.

Skyes are a medium-size dog with short legs, a long body, and a large head. The coat must be brushed several times a week to avoid uncomfortable mats, and trimming is necessary to keep the hair from dragging along the ground.

The Smooth Fox Terrier has a sleek, easy-to-maintain coat. Its sturdiness and size combined with its friendly and playful nature make it an excellent companion for children.

Wheatens tend to be less scrappy than other terriers but they are true terriers and will be more active than many other breeds, enjoying plenty of exercise every day.

The Staffordshire bull terrier is extremely courageous and obedient, highly intelligent, and affectionate with a sense of humor. This, coupled with its affection for its friends, and children in particular, its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability, makes it a foremost all-purpose dog.

The Welsh terrier is a friendly and spirited breed. Their intelligence and desire to please are evident in their attitude. Welsh terriers are friendly and outgoing with people and other dogs.

The Westie loves people and makes an affectionate addition to any family. This devoted, happy, and faithful dog also makes a wonderful travel companion due to its small size.

The wire fox terrier has a wire-haired coat which sheds minimally. Its sturdiness and size combined with its friendly and playful nature make it an excellent companion for children.

The Bedlington terrier is also part of this group.