If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ like the popukar Labradoodle (half Labrador, half Poodle) to lovable mongrels.
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
Terriers are a type of dog that are hugely popular both in the UK and worldwide, perfect for people who have active lifestyles (they need plenty of exercise).
The Royal Kennel Club recognises over 30 breeds of these canine characters – issuing Kennel Club Pedigree Certificates to pups that make the grade.
Here are all 33 – and how they got their names.
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1. Irish Terrier
Considered one of the oldest of the terrier breed, the Irish Terrier is thought to have descended from the British black and tan terrier-type dogs - with some believing that they share a bloodline with the Irish Wolfhound. They make excellent tracker dogs due to their sensitive noses. | Canva/Getty Images
2. Bedlington Terrier
Named after the North East England mining town of Bedlinton, the Bedlington Terrier was originally known as the Rodbury Terrier and dates back as far as the 18th century. Initially used to hunt, they have also been used in dog racing and other sports. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Australian Terrier
Developed in Australia in the early 19th century, the Australian Terrier was first bred from rough coated terriers imported from Great Britain. They were kept to eradicate mice and rats. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Airedale Terrier
Known at the 'King of Terriers' as it is the largest breed of terrier, the Airedale Terrier was first bred in the valley around the River Aire, in the West Riding of Yorkshire. It was originally used as a farm and hunting dog. | Canva/Getty Images