Terrier Puppies

Although there are many different types of terriers, terrier puppies generally have several things in common. They are cute to a fault. They are intelligent. They enjoy being around people and are usually good with children.

Terrier puppies, however, are not necessarily the perfect pet. They tend to be aggressive towards other animals. They are active, requiring a lot of play time from their humans. They can be independent, stubborn, and hard to train. Terrier puppies require an owner who is loving and compassionate, yet firm enough to play the role of leader of the pack and insist on obedience. (Note: It's important not to confuse abuse with discipline. Never hit your puppy or hurt him physically in any other way.)

If not trained properly, terrier puppies can be aggressive and hard to control. Even with the best training, terrier puppies are notorious barkers. Finally, some types of terrier puppies (e.g., American pit bulls) are banned in certain locations.

If you want a terrier puppy, you will need to do your research to decide which breed is best for you. Make a list of characteristics you want in a puppy and then find the breed that most closely matches your preferences.

Where To Buy Terrier Puppies

Terrier puppies are often available in pet stores, where their small size and popularity with the public make them an ideal cash cow. Before you buy a puppy from a pet store, however, take some time to ask questions. Where did the pet store obtain the puppy? Since most reputable breeders do not sell to pet stores, chances are the puppy came from what is known as a "puppy mill." Puppy mills exist only to make money. They provide no training or socialization to their animals, and only enough basic care to keep the animal alive until it can be sold. Furthermore, animals from puppy mills are often inbred and carry a high genetic disease load.

It is best to buy terrier puppies from a reputable breeder. You can find a breeder by talking to your vet or to your local American Kennel Club chapter. If you know other people who own terriers, ask them to recommend a breeder to you. Many breeders advertise on the internet. As always, use caution when buying from a breeder you know nothing about.

Another way to obtain a terrier puppy is to adopt from your local animal shelter or contact a terrier rescue group. Some owners surrender terrier puppies to local shelters when they realize the puppies do not get along with existing pets or are too energetic or hard to train. You can ask the shelter to call you if they get a terrier puppy of the type you are looking for.

As far as rescue organizations go, the Dog.com terrier page (http://www.dog.com/breed/terriers.asp) has a list of popular types of terriers in the United States. Clicking on breed type will take you to a page with more information about the terrier type, including how to get in touch with national rescue groups.

If you do your research, locate the right dog for your, and take the time to train your terrier puppy appropriately, you will find yourself with a loyal, feisty, intelligent canine friend for life.

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