Terrier Mix – Everything You Could Want To Know!

Terrier mixes are one of the cutest and most playful dog breeds that you can find. These dogs are ideal for kids and adults since they love to interact with people, give kisses aplenty, and are always ready for adventure.

If you have been thinking of bringing home a Terrier Mix, you should learn as much as you can about these fun-loving, comforting creatures. Because as loving and energetic as terriers can be, they can be extremely stubborn without proper training.

The more you understand their characteristics and personality, the better you will help them become your best furry buddy.

This article has everything that you need to know about the variety of Terrier Mix breeds.

Terrier Mix – Defining the Breed

These dogs are created by mating a Terrier breed with another complementary breed to produce the terrier mix. The AKC has categorized them as an official dog group.

Terriers are one of the most beloved and sought after breeds around the world. The Jack Russell Terrier, Airedale Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Yorkshire Terrier are among the most popular terriers. Terriers were initially bred for hunting and killing pests like rodents, vermin, foxes, and badgers on farms. Since then, they have also become a favorite household pet.

You may think of a terrier as having a certain look, but you may be surprised about how many different Terrier Mix varieties exist.

So which are the most popular terrier crosses? Read on to find out more.


Introduction to the Most Popular Terrier Mixes

Terrier mixes inherit the characteristics of both the terrier and the other breed. Our most favorite and highly desired Terrier Mixes include the following:

Yorkiepoo

If you’re looking for a playful little pup who also happens to be full of loyalty and energy, the Yorkipoo is the one for you. The Yorkiepoo is created by crossing theToy Poodle and Yorkie. These dogs are ideal for those who worry about shedding or those suffering from allergies.

Perhaps the most attractive thing about Yorkiepoos is that they love showing affection to their owners while also being perfectly happy enjoying caressing while sitting in the lap of their human parents.

The only thing that can be problematic for some people is that Yorkiepoos are prone to yapping a lot. If you are among those who cannot deal with the repeated barking, you might want to check out some other Terrier Mix.

Whoodle

Another favorite Terrier Mix is the Whoodle, a mix of the soft-coated Wheaten Terrier and the Poodle. Also known as Sweatenpoo or Wheatendoodle, these intelligent, fun-loving pups are perfect for a family with kids.

The Whoodle can range in size, shape, and coat color, but most of the time, they take the curly coat of a Poodle having a silky and medium length that needs regular brushing. These are also dogs that are good for people with allergies.

Frenchton

Created by crossing the French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier, the Frenchton is the perfect combination of gentleness and feistiness. Frenchtons are characterized by their snub noses and perky ears, along with their loveable personalities.

Even though these are designer pups, you can find them in shelters, where you should look first when thinking of adopting a Frenchton.

Jack Chi

Short on space, but still can’t wait to have your very own furry friend? Jack Chi is the perfect of a small dog with a huge personality. A cross between Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua, a Jack Chi weighs no more than 8 to 18 pounds and is well suited to small spaces like apartments or condos. Being small most certainly does not mean that these dogs don’t require quality exercise. They are full of energy, which needs an outlet every single day.

Jack Chis are very loyal and fun-loving. You will not have a boring minute with one around!

Shorkie

Cross the Shih Tzu and Yorkie,and you get a Shorkie, a pint-sized designer dog well known for its adorable size and sweet yet shrewd nature. If you see a Shorkie, you will not be able to resist them. They are that cute! Shorkies are also prone to yapping, so you might not want to adopt them if you prefer a quiet life. They are ideal for single people, as well as families.

Don’t forget that even though Shorkies are very small, they still need their daily dose of exercise to get rid of the energy buildup. So even if you have them in a small space, be sure to take them out each day to walk around the block or run in the park.

Ratcha

Ratcha is a funny name for a funny dog with a very independent personality that can be quite a handful. And yes, just like its name, this pup is also hand-sized! It is a cross between the Rat Terrier and the Chihuahua. Ratcha, just like its parents, can be extremely stubborn, which is why you may want to rethink your choice if you are a novice pet lover.

Ratchas are distinguishable not just for their size but also because of their active face and bat-like ears. They are short-haired and extremely loyal dogs that are protective of their personal space and their humans. Despite this fact, they are highly trainable and can be a great companion.

Scoland Terrier

Scoland Terrier is a mix of the West Highland White Terrier and the Scottish Terrier. Since both the parent dogs come from Scotland, this Terrier Mix is known as the ‘ultimate terrier.’ The Scoland embodies the true terrier spirit with its stubbornness, unbounded energy, loyalty, and playfulness.

Scolands have large eyes with scissor bite, a thick, wiry coat, and colors ranging from black to wheaten. They are one of the most loved Terrier Mixes of all.

Jack-a-Bee

The Jack-a-Bee is a hybrid of a Jack Russell and Beagle. This very friendly, sweet, loyal, and intelligent Terrier Mix is a favorite among dog lovers. They tend to be a little too independent, but their loving nature can win anyone over. They come in a variety of coat colors but have the face of a Beagle with the body of Jack Russell.

The Jack-A-Bee is a calm and playful dog and is great with children.

Toxirn

The name may be difficult to pronounce, but the pup is not at all hard to handle. A crossbreed created from Chihuahua and Cairn Terrier, The Toxirn, is an iconic toy breed Terrier Mix. Even though tiny, Toxirns are brave, athletic fighters that can be too overprotective of their humans.

Their sturdy little bodies have lean muscle mass with wiry coats that aren’t too dense. They are another example of little pups with huge personalities.

Scottish Cocker

Part Scottish Terrier and part Cocker Spaniel, the Scottish Cocker, is one of the cutest yet least common Terrier Mixes. But because of their sweet demeanor and loveable looks, they are fast becoming popular.

The Scottish Cocker has a manageable energy level, unlike some of the other terrier mixes. They are soft, laid back, and love to lounge on the couch with you. They are very friendly and get along well with the elderly and children.

Scottish Cockers are courageous and active, which allows them to become protective whenever there is a need. Since they are very intelligent, they know exactly when they need to switch from mellow to aggressive. These Terrier Mixes are concerned about their humans’ safety and will protect them at all costs.

Bugg

Any hybrid dog breed crossed with a Pug makes an awesome dog, and the Buggs is no exception. The hybrid mix of a Pug and Boston Terrier, a Bugg, has a vibrant aura and a comic-like personality that matches both the parents. Just like Pugs, Buggs are charming, mischievous, and highly affectionate dogs. But their friendly side is mostly associated with the Boston Terrier. In short, getting a Bugg will give you the best of both worlds.

Pugs are lazy while Boston Terriers are active, so a Bugg’s activity level is highly subjective and depends mainly on the parentage. This dog will keep you entertained and amused at all times, making it a great family pet that’s also very good around young children. They also have very basic nutritious and grooming needs.

Jacairn

This unique breed combines two fan favorites from the Terrier breed – a Cairn Terrier and Jack Russell.  These eager dogs will do anything to please you. Not only are they trainable dogs, but highly intelligent too.

Jacairns make an excellent companion for people with an active lifestyle since these dogs require plenty of activity. They do tend to become destructive if they don’t stay active or engaged. With the right training and exercise, these dogs make the perfect family pooch as they love playing with children.

Schnocker

This mixed terrier breed has two most interesting parents – a Cocker Spaniel and a Mini Schnauzer. If you’re looking for a terrier that could be your perfect lap dog, this is it! This designer dog is a great and super-friendly canine companion you can have.

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There’s nothing too extreme about these dogs. The Schnocker is a perfectly balanced happy-go-lucky personality that loves outdoor adventures. And they’re always up for cuddle time. Like most mixed-breeds, Schnockers can vary in size and appearance, too, and what they look like would depend on the parents.

Dorkie

A cute name for a cute dog, the Dorkie, is a cross between a Dachshund and Yorkshire Terrier. The Dorkie is great with kids and makes an adorable family dog. However, since they’re small and fragile dogs, it is best to supervise them with children during playtime to avoid unintentional harm.

Dorkies have a coat and coat colors that resemble a Yorkie while the floppy ears come from the Dachshund parent. And this little fellow is nothing less than a spunky little furball.

Taco Terrier

Taco Terrier is a unique breed that only experienced dog lovers should consider. A cross between a Chihuahua and Fox Terrier, the Taco Terrier gets his unstoppable energy from both the parents. The resulting dogs are a unique combination of similar, intense personalities with a very high energy level demanding a lot of mental and physical activity.

They have a vibrant, lively personality that you cannot ignore. These adorable looking pups are also very intelligent and respond well to training. If you can keep up with their energy levels and offer endless playtime, this is the mix breed terrier for you.  

Pit Heeler

The Pit Heeleris another rare breed that comes from parents that have two distinctive personalities. But a Pit Heeler picks the best from both. As the name suggests, Pit Heelers are half Pitbull Terriers and half Australian Blue Heelers. These dogs have the Pitbull’s bold and strong traits coupled with theHeeler’s natural herding instinct.

Unlike American Pitbull Terriers, which are often considered one of the most dangerous dog breeds, a Pit Heeler has a different temperament and does not inherit a similar aggression level. However, we do recommend early training and socialization to avoid any possibilities.

Chorkie

Both Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas have been in the limelight as the most desired dogs by celebrities.

These highly devoted and loyal dogs have a very calm and friendly temperament with their family but can be pretty frosty with strangers. Despite their small size, these dogs have a larger than life personality and are fare better in larger, less busy households.

Just like miniature Chihuahuas, these dogs also experience designer handbag lives. But as much as you love to carry your little pooch in a bag, they require proper exercise and activities to stay active, healthy, and intelligent.

Schnairedale

This beautiful dog comes from lovely parents: An Airedale Terrier and Standard Schnauzer. They gained a lot of popularity for their gorgeous looks and great personality. And while there are a little difficult to find, it isn’t impossible.

Just like most other terriers, Schnairedales are fiercely loyal and love the company of their family. They make a perfect family dog for their playful nature and acceptance towards other pets. A consistent approach with their training is key to getting the best out of these dogs.

Morkie

There’s no reason why you won’t fall in love with these ultimate lapdogs. This mixed version comes from Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese parents. Inheriting love and loyalty from both the parents, they are happy-go-lucky dogs that will brighten up your lives with their vibrant aura and lovable personality.

Morkie’s are a family dog. They do well in a house with lots of people. They are friendly dogs that create a strong bond, but they tend to get closest to one person, which is why they’re also known as ‘shadow dogs.’ With these dogs around the house, you can expect a lot of zoomies!

Photo by Adrianna Calvo from Pexels

Airedoodle

The Airedoodle is as adorable as its name. This interesting terrier mix is a hybrid between Airedale Terrier and a Poodle. If you know these two dogs, you can only imagine what an amazing combination that will make. The Airedoodle terrier mix combines the best qualities of both these dogs. These dogs are highly intelligent and elegant.

Additionally, they are very athletic with an outstanding work ethic. Airedoodles are highly trainable and very easy to keep. They have all the traits and qualities that make them a perfect family dog. Airedoodles are social and love people. They do, however, have a high prey drive. Therefore, it is important to supervise them around small children and other pets.  

Boston Boxer

A hybrid between a Boxer and a Boston Terrier, these sturdy dogs have a strong personality that can make them a handful at times. If you’re great at handling and training such dogs, this dog would be a delightful little package for you. With the right training, you can control their temperaments and encourage good behavior.

As far as the appearance is concerned, they look like a small boxer, which is why they’re also sometimes called ‘Miniature Boxer’. And even though they’re intelligent, devoted, and friendly, you need to keep up with their energy to avoid destructive behavior.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

Jack Rat

With parents like a Rat Terrier and Jack Russell, you can expect a large personality packed in that tiny body. This mixed terrier breed is also called the Jersey Terrier. Their bold attitude can belie their small size. These are alert and vigilant dogs with extreme energy and playfulness.

These dogs are also very brave and courageous. And despite their petite size, they won’t mind taking up a challenge, even with a dog double their size, if they face a threat. They do have special grooming needs because their double coat may shed a lot. Daily brushing is best to keep their furin check.

Snorkie

Snorkies, as the name suggests, are a mixed breed between a Yorkie and a Mini Schnauzer. They are tiny dogs and fall into the ‘toy dog’ category. These designer dogs are adorable with a massive fan following. And they’re popular for all the right reasons.

These family dogs are extremely loving and highly energetic. They develop a close bond with their owners and become protective of them. As much as they love their playtime, they also love to chill as a lap dog. Don’t forget to provide them with their daily dose of exercise as they are prone to weight gain.

Brat

Despite their name, they aren’t a sort of a brat that would give you a hard time. With Boston Terrier and Rat Terrier as the parents, the Brat has amazing traits that make them a great family dog. They are compact, strong-headed, and athletic. They are highly energetic too. Based on the parents, they also have strong prey instincts and can sometimes be difficult to handle.

Early socializing and training make them better companions. They are affectionate and loving and boast a great temperament that works well as a family dog. Make sure you offer them lots of stimulation, play lots of mind games, and tons of exercise to keep them happy.  

Cairmal

This mix between a Maltese and Cairn Terrier is one of the best hybrid dogs you can own. Not only they’re extremely adorable, but they have traits that make them one of the most popular companion dogs. Since they combine both the parents’ best qualities, they’re highly affectionate and cheerful and can be extremely vigilant.

While they’re not the best guard dogs, they work best as watchdogs. And like most terriers, they are great with other pets, including cats. Also deemed as a desirable designer dog, the temperament can vary but is mostly positive.

Ratshire Terrier

This mixed breed dog combines the two most popular rat hunters – a Rat Terrier and a Yorkie. Naturally, they have a natural prey instinct that they get from both the parents. These tiny dogs stand only 10 inches tall and usually do not weigh above 15 pounds. They have a small structure that sometimes fails to keep up with the energy they have. Therefore, they need a constant outlet to expend their energy and stay happy.

These healthy mutts require a lot of socialization to make them suitable around kids and other small pets.

Pomerat

Made from a Pomeranian and a Rat Terrier combo, these beautiful and cheerful dogs are the ideal balance that makes them a perfect canine companion. They are adorable with a sprinkle of playfulness and fun-loving. But that’s not all. They also have a dab of vigilance and alertness that one cannot ignore.

Thanks to the dominant traits of the parents, Pomerats can be highly entertaining. Get them if you can give a lot of time and attention to these little fellas. They are highly social and need human interaction to thrive and enjoy in a family setting. Pomerats can be a bit stubborn, but they make good pets with socialization and the right training.

These were some of the top varieties that come in Terrier Mixes. Instead of buying one, be sure to check out shelters and adopt one.


Understanding Terrier Mix Temperament

Even though these dogs aren’t the same breed, they still have some common characteristics. They come from their terrier parents. And because terriers are hunters and fighters, they are extremely energetic, adventurous, brave, and swift. They can be aggressive and require experienced handling, at least during training.

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The best thing about terriers is that they are generally predictive. They are independent but love their humans. The dogs may be small, but their little bodies are power-packed. Terriers are very intelligent, courageous, bright, and determined.

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All terriers should be socialized from an early age to be comfortable around all types of people and pets. Since these dogs are tenacious, they can be difficult when it comes to obedience. They should start training as early as possible. If you feel you won’t be able to deal with this on your own, you should seek a professional trainer’s help.


Terriers Mix Come in All Shapes and Sizes

Terriers are generally small sized dogs, but some like the Jack Russell Terrier, Airedale Terrier, and Border Terrier are larger dogs.

Weight and Size

As mentioned above, Terrier Mixes come in different shapes and sizes. Here is a general idea so that you can choose the one that best suits your family:

  • Small Breed: Most small breed Terrier mixes are less than 222 pounds, standing less than 16 inches
  • Medium Breed: Most medium breed Terrier mixes are about 25 to 50 pounds and stand 18 to 25 inches
  • Large Breed: Most large breed Terrier mixes are from 35 to 65 pounds and stand a tall 30 to 32 inches

The size, shape, and color of the Terrier mixes are reliant on who their parents are.

The Colors and Coats

The variety of color is no less diverse than the size and shape of Terrier Mixes. Imagine all the parent breeds, their spouses, and then the resultant color pups they produce. The coat of these dogs is smooth and short for the likes of Jack Russell, while others like Schnauzers have longer and shaggier coats. But what is striking about the Terrier mixes is the wire-haired coat some of them have.

Show-Stopping Wiry Coat

A wiry coat is one of the most prominent features of a Terrier Mix. The wiry outer coat that hides the thick and soft undercoat is known as the broken coat. The great thing about wire-haired terriers is that they aren’t difficult to groom at all.

You can also have the fur pulled from the undercoat to make their hair more manageable and reduce that shaggy look. Mixes that have wire-haired coats include Norwich Terriers, Welsh Terriers, Border Terriers, and Welsh Terriers.

Some other terriers like the Wheaton have soft, long, shiny, single-layer coats.

Staffies and Foxies, on the other hand, have short coats, which means they are the easiest to maintain and are particularly great dogs since bathing them and brushing them is hassle-free.


Terrier Mix Personality

There is a reason why the Terrier mixes have gained such popularity as a household pet. These loveable creatures are the firecrackers of the dog world. Their energy and playfulness are unrivaled, making them good pets for children. They have sass, personality, and feisty nature that is tamable with socialization and training.

Keep in mind that their fearlessness can make them rather irrational,leading them into picking fights with dogs a lot bigger than themselves. You should provide them with socialization and training before introducing them to unfamiliar people and pets.

Since their parents are the hunter, Terrier Mixes can be rather territorial, be it their favorite toy, food, or even the place they call home. They are prone to barking at strangers, even if they were simply crossing your front yard.

This breed needs to be trained from the very start if you plan on bringing them into a home with kids and other pets. Since they aren’t too patient and prefer being the center of attention, they will need to become used to all kinds of company. Training them can be rather tough because they have a mind of their own and can be stubborn, so you might want to take a professional’s help if you have never trained a dog.

If you want to find out about a Terrier mix’s personality, be sure to find out about the parents and read up on the individual breed traits.


Health and Care

When it comes to the health and caring for Terrier Mixes, as long as you provide them with good nutrition and ensure their daily exercise routines are on time, there is no reason why these pups can’t stay healthy and happy.

Not sure how you can go about giving them the care they need? Here are some details for you.

Food and Nutrition

The most relieving thing about Terrier mixes is that they aren’t picky eaters. They will not give you a tough time eating whatever it is that you present to them. It is best to provide them with any commercially produced well-balanced dog food mix. Try to avoid giving items that contain corn and wheat as that might give rise to an allergic reaction,

If you want to give them something all-natural, you can also feed raw meat or bones. The only thing you need to keep an eye on is the quantity. Terrier mixes should not be overfed and should eat at their fixed mealtimes only, helping them remain alert, healthy, and strong.

It is best to give them dry food, but you can also provide wet food two to three times a week if you wish.

Exercise Requirements

Terrier Mixes require daily exercise or at least a run in the park. These dogs have parents who were hunters, which means they have excess energy stored in their bodies that needs an outlet. If your Terrier Mix isn’t getting daily exercise, they can become dull or too full of pent-up energy, which can frustrate them and make them aggressive.

So take them out for a 30-minute walk each day. You can either let them run around a park or indulge in games like hide-and-seek, treasure hunts, etc. Terrier Mixes are an extremely playful breed, which is why they are excellent for when you go hiking or trekking.

Health

Terrier Mixes very rarely fall sick when given a healthy diet and proper exercise. Even so, annual veterinary checkups are required.

Another thing you must be careful about is the emotional health of Terrier Mixes. These dogs can be moody because of the endless supply of energy and their need to be constantly in the spotlight. So pay attention, and shower them with the love they deserve.

These dogs need regular physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Grooming Needs

When it comes to grooming, the Terrier Mixes have different needs. Some need daily grooming while others can get by with a weekly brushing. Some mixes do not shed at all, so if you or your family members are worried about hair, get a dog that does not shed.

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The best thing to do is to invest in a grooming kit to keep the dog happy and looking presentable at all times. You can also take them to dog grooming places, monthly or annually, per your budget.


FAQs

1. Are Terrier Mix dogs easy to train?

The simple answer is no. These Mixes tend to be stubborn and single-minded in what they wish to do. But that does not imply that they are untrainable.

If you feel that you cannot train them personally, you can always hire a professional trainer.

2. Do Terriers require a lot of grooming?

It depends on which mix you have. If you have a wire-haired terrier, you will need to groom often because of the double coat and shaggy mane. But terrier mixes like the Foxies have short coats and do not need as much grooming. All you would have to do is give them regular baths and a combing here and there.

Depending on how much time and money you can spend on your fur buddy, you can pick the terrier mix that best suits you.

3. Do they come in various sizes?

You may have thought of small dogs when it comes to Terrier Mixes, but there are also large varieties that you can get. These dogs come in different sizes ranging from a mere 4 pounds like a Yorkipoo to the large Airedale terrier weighing 55 pounds or the American Pitbull Terrier x German Shepherd mix, weighing around 90 pounds. There is a lot of variety in size, shape, and color when it comes to these crossbreeds.


Final Word

Terriers and the Terrier cross can be the perfect furry addition to your family. These loving and playful dogs are excellent for children and all members of the family. Mixing a Terrier with any dog breed can give an intelligent, intuitive, and active dog who’s ready to become your best friend. They are more balanced, healthier, and much more intelligent as compared to their purebred parents.

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You can easily find one at your local shelter and adopt them. It is a guarantee that you will fall in love with the first friendly lick on your nose!

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Kevin Myers

Kevin Myers is a passionate animal lover, pet enthusiast, and dedicated writer. With over a decade of experience as a professional pet blogger, Kevin has gained a wealth of knowledge and insights into the world of pet care. He firmly believes that every animal deserves a loving and nurturing home, which has driven him to adopt and foster numerous pets throughout the years.

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