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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5. Australian Silky Terrier
Developed in Australia from a mix of the Australian Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier, the Australian Silky Terrier was originally called the Sydney Silky. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Bull Terrier
Bred in the first half of the 19th century in England by combining Bulldog and Terrier, the Bull Terrier was used to hunt vermin and in long-outlawed bloodsports. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Border Terrier
Named after the border between England and Scotland where they were first bred, the Border Terrier was first recognised by the UK Kennel Club in 1920. They were originally used to hunt foxes. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Boston Terrier
Nicknamed the 'American Gentleman' the Boston Terrier takes its name from the US city where it was first bred. Robert C. Hooper originated the breed in 1875 and all modern Boston Terriers are related to his dog, called Judge. | Canva/Getty Images