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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9. Miniature Bull Terrier
First documented in 1872, the Miniature Bull Terrier - as the name suggests - is simply a smaller version of the Bull Terrier. To keep the breeds distinct the Kennel Club have strict rules concerning interbreeding. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Cesky Terrier
Also known as the Bohemian Terrier, the Cesky Terrier originated in the former country of Czechoslovakia. It is a cross between Sealyham Terrier and a Scottish Terrier. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Cairn Terrier
One of several terriers that originated in Scotland, the Cairn Terrier was named after its job of hunting animals between the mountain cairns of the Scottish Highlands - particularly on the Isle of Skye. It became recognised as a distinct breed in the early 20th century. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Scottish Terrier
Affectionately known as the Scottie Dog, the Scottish Terrier is another of the breeds of Terrier that come from the Highlands. They were originally used to hunt vermin on farms and crofts. | Canva/Getty Images