A “terrier” is not a dog breed. Rather, terrier refers to a group of closely related dog breeds. There are roughly 30 unique dog breeds in this category. In fact, they’re such an important class of dogs that the AKC has recognized these dogs as an official dog group.
Some of the most popular dog breeds in the world are terriers. Some of which, include the Jack Russell Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier and Airedale Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, among many others. You’ll see them everywhere you go!
But with such a large following and a wide selection of terrier breeds, it’s no surprise they’re part of many amazing mixed breeds. While there are too many hybrids to list, we’ve found our favorite terrier mixes that you probably never seen.
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First, What’s a Terrier Dog?
For the past hundreds of years, all types of Terriers have been tirelessly working with on farms around the world, hunting and killing pesty vermin and rats. After all, that’s what most terriers were originally bred to do.
With this skillset alone, they became widely popular and eventually their claim far outside the farming industry and onto the international dog scene. After these dogs reached the height of their popularity, breeders began to take notice.
They were soon bred for a variety of specific jobs. For example, the Kelly Blue Terrier and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier were bred to herd, hunt and protect. On the other hand, Rat Terriers were originally bred for vermin control – specifically with rats.
As a result, Terriers were bred to have very powerful jaws and sharp teeth. Their small size does not mean weakness, as they can be excellent guard dogs. What’s more, Terriers sport a wiry or silky coat, with the exception of the Pit Bull Terrier.
The “Terrier Temperament”
A Terrier’s personality is a relatively consistent and predictable thing, according to experts. While there will be exceptions, most Terriers are highly energetic and playful. By nature, they’re independent dogs with a lot of dignity.
Some owners go as far as saying Terriers are stubborn or independent. For this reason, they may be a bit harder to train than other dog breeds. It’s also why many terriers are unfairly labeled as dumb dog breeds. It’s certainly not true.
They will walk all day long and never tire but will happily just go for a small jaunt. Great with kids as they love to play, but they can be stubborn and…they just won’t listen no matter what.
– Drac (Border Terrier Owner)
Furthermore, Terriers don’t usually play nice with other animals. Even with socialization, there’s no guarantee they’ll get along with other dogs. And with cats or other small pets, their prey drive may kick in. They’re notoriously feisty dogs.
Like with any other dog, Terriers have their flaws. But with a Terrier, you know you’ll get an affectionate and loyal dog. Even if they don’t like to cuddle, they make some of the best companions you can find.
Best Terrier Mixes
Here are 34 unusual and wacky Terrier mixed dog breeds that you must see! Did we miss a good one? Let us know in the comments section below. Well try to add it on this list.
1. Whoodle
Parents: Soft Coated Wheaten x Poodle
The Whoodle is a Terrier mix as fun as it’s name. They’re also called a Sweatenpoo and even a Wheaten-doodle, both of which are equally amusing. In the last decade, the Whoodle has exploded in popularity. However, there’s no standard yet.
Most owners will tell you that their Whoodle is energetic and lively, as with both parents. But depending on which side they take more form, they can range quite a bit in size, coat and shape. We see most with the Poodle’s curly coat, though.
Both parents are intelligent dogs. In fact, the Poodle is the second most intelligent breed, according to Stanley Coren. So, you can expect a smart Whoodle, especially if they inherit the brains from the Poodle side of the family.
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2. Jack Chi
Parents: Jack Russell x Chihuahua
The Jack Chi is the Chihuahua Jack Russell Terrier hybrid, and is perhaps one of the most popular mixes, for good reason! They may be small, but will have a ton of energy and a feisty attitude – very much like the typical terrier.
At times, it may seem like the Jack Chi has an unlimited supply of energy, as they love to play. If you’re looking for a lazy lap dog, look elsewhere! This Terrier mix requires a ton of physical activity and daily mental stimulation.
They can be very loyal and affectionate dogs. Plus, it’s not unusual that they’ll come snuggle up with you too! So, if you live an active lifestyle and you’re looking for a small fun-loving dog, I would highly suggest the Jack Chi.
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3. Yorkipoo
Parents: Yorkshire Terrier x Poodle
When I think of the term “designer dog,” the Yorkipoo first comes to mind. They’re a cross between two of the most widely popular toy breeds: the Yorkie and Toy Poodle. That said, was there any doubt this hybrid would be popular as well?
As expected, Yorkipoos are generally fun-loving and happy all the time. They’ll shower owners with a ton of affection and love. But at the same time, can be perfectly content resting on the lap of a loved one. Not your typical Terrier temperament.
However, it’s worth noting that these small dogs love to yap. If you’re not a fan of constant barking, you may want to reconsider bringing one home. However, I’d take bad with the good for such an adorable and sweet-natured Terrier mix.
4. Scoland Terrier
Parents: Scottish Terrier x Westie
The Scoland is the hybrid of the Scottish Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier. Who says you can’t crossbreed two Terriers together? Because both parent breeds originate from Scotland, they’re often called the “ultimate Terrier.”
The Scoland is the embodiment of the Terrier spirit. They’re lively, energetic, playful and loyal. They will have the perfect amount of stubbornness, which is almost inevitable with these dogs. But, they’ll protect and entertain you every chance they get.
As for physical their looks, you’ll likely get the head of a Westie with the body of a Scottie. Coats come in black with white highlights, or wheaten. They’ll have big black eyes with their signature “scissor bite.” Like with the parents, expect a wiry and dense coat.
5. Frenchton
Parents: Boston Terrier x Frenchie
As cool and amazing as the French Bulldog is, the Frenchton is so much cooler. By crossbreeding the popular Frenchie with the equally stunning Boston Terrier, you’ll get the lively and intelligent Frenchton. They’re very popular hybrids and it’s easy to see why.
The Frenchton has all the colors of a Boston Terrier, often coming in the signature black coat with white markings (or vice versa). However, the face will often resemble the French Bulldog slightly more, though it varies by dog.
Both Boston Terriers and the Frenchie are a little stubborn by nature, so this Terrier mix will most likely be the same. That said, they can be a little difficult to train. Still, the Frenchton is truly an affectionate and loyal dog that’s perfect for every family.
6. Jack-A-Bee
Parents: Jack Russell x Beagle
The Jack-A-Bee is an odd combination that somehow works – and works great! This Jack Russell Terrier and Beagle hybrid combines two of the most iconic and popular dog breeds from the Terrier and Hound groups, respectively.
The result is a friendly, calm, intelligent, and loyal Terrier mix. But it’s not all good. Sometimes they will be more on the independent side, even for a Terrier. However, their sweet-nature demeanor and positive vibe will make up for it.
At first glance, these hybrids look like a Beagle with a different coat. But the Jack-A-Bee tends to take a body of the Jack Russell, while maintaining the face of a Beagle (including the ears). As a relatively new breed, their coat colors can vary quite a bit.
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7. Bugg
Parents: Boston Terrier x Pug
Any hybrid crossbred with a Pug is almost guaranteed to be an awesome dog. The Bugg is no exception. The personalities of the Pug and Boston Terrier mesh together almost seamlessly, like peanut butter and jelly. There’s no better mix!
Pugs are charming, loving, with a little bit of a mischievous side. On the other hand, the Boston Terrier is friendly and often described as a little bit comical. The Bugg gives you the best of both worlds – a fun yet entertaining dog with good intentions.
Boston Terriers can be active dogs, while Pugs are not so active. However, your Bugg’s energy levels will depend on which parent they take more from. So whether you’re looking for the perfect lap buddy or an entertaining dog companion, consider a Bugg.
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8. Toxirn
Parents: Cairn Terrier x Chihuahua
The Toxirn is not as complicated as their name make them out to be. They’re delightful toy dogs bred by crossbreeding the Cairn Terrier with the Chihuahua. Both of which, are iconic toy dogs in their respective countries of Scotland and Mexico.
Yes, they’re small. But they’re surprisingly courageous and confident – thanks to the Chihuahua side. They don’t scare very easily and will do what it takes to protect the owners. The downside is that they can be a little overprotective.
Toxirns are deceivingly athletic with a lean yet muscular build. In fact, they’re sturdy dogs with a sizable frame for petite size. Their coats are wiry, but not as long as other Terriers. Toxirns are as they say: “little dogs with a big personality.”
9. Jacairn
Parents: Jack Russell x Cairn Terrier
The Jacairn combines two fan favorites from the Terrier group – the Jack Russell and the Cairn Terrier. They’re not your typical Terriers, as they’re always eager to please. Not only are they very intelligent, but also highly trainable.
They’re perfect for novice dog trainers. However, they require plenty of exercise daily. So if you don’t have an active lifestyle, it’ll be tough to maintain a Jacairn. They demand a lot of work, otherwise you may see destructive behavior.
On the flip side, they love playing with children and get along great with all humans. And if you have a large backyard, they’ll likely dig some holes and climb some trees! We weren’t kidding when we said the Jacairns are energetic.
10. Scottish Cocker
Parents: Scottish Terrier x Cocker Spaniel
The Scottish Cocker is part Cocker Spaniel and part Scottish Terrier. Both an English or American Cocker Spaniel work in this case. And while they’re one of the least common Terrier mixes, these dogs are slowly growing in popularity.
In essence, they’re the opposite of the Jacairn. They’re laid back and mellow dogs that’ll happily lounge around with you. What’s more, they’re extremely sociable dogs, which probably comes from the Cocker Spaniel side.
From the Scottish Terrier side brings their courageousness and alertness to the table. Scottish Cockers can be aggressive when the situation calls for it – and they’re smart enough to figure out when. But most of the time, they’ll be chilling by your side.
11. Schnocker
Parents: Mini Schnauzer x Cocker Spaniel
There’s a lot of mystery surrounding the origins of this designer breed. However, many will claim they first originated from the United States in the 1990’s. Regardless of origins, this mix was bred to be the ultimate companion lap dog.
Schnockers strike the perfect balance for the vast majority of dog owners. They’re moderately active and will happily go on adventures with you. At the same time, they’ll always come in for a nice cuddle whenever they get the chance.
Like with many hybrid dogs, a Schnocker can vary in appearance. Though, they usually come with a slim frame, long legs, and a set of floppy ears. Coat colors, highlights and length can also vary depending on the parents.
12. Dorkie
Parents: Yorkshire Terrier x Dachshund
As a cross between the Yorkshire terrier and Dachshund, the Dorkie has the best name among all Terrier mixes. Not only is it a great play on words, but it perfectly describes the personality of these hybrid dogs: little cute dorks.
They get along great with all people, but especially love playing with older children. But because of how small and fragile they are, children must be supervised during playtime. Kids are rowdy and may hurt a Dorkie on accident.
Dorkies will likely inherit the big floppy ears of a Dachshund but their coat will come from the Yorkie. The coat colors will be more in-line with Yorkies as well, coming in a glossy black and brown, red and black or a solid brown.
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13. Pit Heeler
Parents: Pitbull Terrier x Blue Heeler
The Pit Heeler is the not-so-obvious cross of the Pit Bull Terrier and the Blue Heeler. Many Australian dog breeds are fantastic herders. So keep in mind that there’s a good chance this Terrier mix will inherit those instincts as well.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is often labeled as the most dangerous dog breed, but there’s no guarantee that the Pit Heeler will inherit the same aggressive tendencies. Nonetheless, socialization early on is an absolute must for this dog.
Keep in mind, they’re relatively rare, so not much is known about the Pit Heeler in terms of personality or temperament. As a result, there’s no standard for this designer breed either. However, we know that they can’t stand extreme heat due to their thick coats.
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14. Schnairedale
Parents: Schnauzer x Airedale Terrier
The Schnairedale is the gorgeous cross between a Standard Schnauzer and the Airedale Terrier. They’re one of the rarest Terrier mixes that we’ve found, and are relatively difficult to find on the market (but not impossible!).
Owners that have a Schnairedale will tell you they’re fun-loving dogs that very much enjoy the company of loved ones. In fact, they love everyone. Schnairedales are playful by nature and get along great with other dogs – especially with bigger ones.
Schnairedales are confident and independent dogs, which explains why they’ll often try to assume the alpha role among the pack. You must be consistent and firm with training to establish pack-dominance before they do.
15. Rat Cha
Parents: Rat Terrier x Chihuahua
The Rat Cha is the popular crossbreed of the Chihuahua and Rat Terrier. Though they may be small, they have a playful attitude and a charming demeanor that few people can resist. That’s why they’re gaining lots of traction in the world of designer dogs.
Most Rat Cha dogs will inherit the short coat from the Chihuahua. However, there are cases where they take on the long Rat Terrier coat. Ears could be erect or curled. This really depends on genetics and their parents.
Unlike other small dogs, the Rat Cha is independent-minded. They really don’t require too much care at all – outside of the dog basics. In return, they only need love, affection and human interaction in order to live a happy and mentally-healthy life.
16. Airedoodle
Parents: Airedale Terrier x Poodle
The Airedoodle is truly an interesting Terrier mix that doesn’t get the fame it deserves. Just think about it – this Terrier mix combines the elegant and highly intelligent Poodle with the “King of Terriers.” How can they not be incredible?
Not surprisingly, the result is an intelligent and athletic hybrid dog with an outstanding work ethic. They are fairly easy to take care of and are highly trainable. Airedoodles have all the qualities and traits that you’d want in your family companion.
They love people and are very social around both humans and other dogs. Kids, especially older ones, do very well with the Airedoodle. The only potential concern is their high prey-drive, which may pose a problem for families with small pets.
17. Boston Boxer
Parents: Boston Terrier x Boxer
No, we’re not talking about Rocky Marciano, otherwise known as the Boston-native boxer who inspired Rocky Balboa. Instead, this Boston Boxer is the durable hybrid of a Boxer and the Boston Terrier that’s perfect for all families.
The Boston Boxer can be a handful at times, but they’re favorable temperaments more than make up for it. In terms of physical appearance, they look very much like a small Boxer. In fact, some people call this mixed breed the “Mini Boxer.”
They’ve been around for a few decades already, but the Boston Boxer still vary quite a bit in personality. For the most part, you can expect a friendly, smart and devoted dog. And with all that energy, you can already guess they’re very playful dogs.
18. Jack Rat
Parents: Jack Russell x Rat Terrier
This Terrier mix is also called the Jersey Terrier. Jack Rats are feisty little dogs with a lot of personality. Their size just doesn’t match their bold attitudes. Jack Rats are vigilant and alert, but also possess a high level of energy.
Moreover, Jack Rats are courageous and brave. Despite their petite size, they won’t likely back down in the face of a perceived threat, especially when the owner is “in need.” Furthermore, Jack Rats play well with children, though they do have a high prey drive.
Grooming can be time-consuming with these dogs. Although they have a short hair, Jack Rats will likely have a double coat that sheds quite often. Daily brushing is a ideal to keep their coat in check – or deal with fur hair everywhere.
19. Snorkie
Parents: Yorkie x Mini Schnauzer
Although there are many sizes of the Schnauzer, most Snorkies are crossbred with the Mini Schnauzer, in addition to the Yorkie. Because both are popular toy terrier breeds with a huge following, it’s a given that Snorkies would be popular too.
This Terrier mix is truly a people-loving dog. In fact, they’re known to develop close ties and bonds with their owners and family members. Because they’re not as energetic as most Terrier dogs, Snorkies are great options for a lap dog.
That said, it’s still important to help them get their daily dose of exercise, as they’re prone to becoming a bit overweight in their later years. Daily coat brushing is highly recommended to prevent any tangles on their textured coat.
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20. Brat
Parents: Rat Terrier x Boston Terrier
Perhaps with the most creative terrier hybrid name, the Brat is the combination of the Boston Terrier and the Rat Terrier. However, they’re much more than a funny name. The Brat hybrid is athletic yet compact, making them perfect for active families in apartments.
Due to the rarity of this mutt, there is little information on the hybrid’s personality. However, based off the parents, we can guess they’ll be lively with strong prey instincts. Both parent breeds were bred to deal with vermin, after all.
Today, Brats are mostly bred for companionship. As such, they’ll be lo