We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
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.
The Kennel Club separates breeds into seven different groups, each of which have a particular set of attributes.
If you are looking for a dog that is determined, brave and independent, then it’s worth considering a breed from the Terrier Group.
The Kennel Club recently released their breed registration statistics for 2024, revealing how many of each breed of dog were registered with them over the year.
According to those figures, here are the 10 most popular terrier dogs in the UK.
5. Cairn Terrier
Originating from the Scottish Highlands, the Cairn Terrier is recognised as one of the oldest breeds of working dog and completes the top five terriers. There were 467 Kennel Club registrations for the breed last year. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Wire Fox Terrier
Bred to chase small game from their burrows, the Wire Fox Terrier is known for its intelligence and high energy levels. There were 390 registrations last year, placing them just outside the top five. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Scottish Terrier
Often described as a big dog in a small dog's body, Scottish Terriers have personality to spare. There were 387 Scottie registrations last year. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Norfolk Terrier
Only officially recognised as an independent breed in 1964, the Norfolk Terrier is a close cousin of the Norwich Terrier - distinguished by its folded ears. There were 382 Kennel Club registrations in 2024. | Canva/Getty Images