terrier type crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "terrier type crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution. Let's solve your puzzle!
Solutions for "terrier type crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CAIRN: A small, hardy terrier breed, often from Scotland, known for its shaggy coat and spirited nature.
6 Letters
WESTIE: Short for West Highland White Terrier, a popular small Scottish breed with a distinctive white coat and cheerful disposition.
YORKIE: A popular toy dog breed, short for Yorkshire Terrier, known for its long, silky hair and lively personality.
STAFFY: Common nickname for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a short-coated, muscular breed known for its courage and loyalty.
7 Letters
SCOTTIE: A distinctive Scottish Terrier, known for its compact size, wiry coat, and confident, independent demeanor.
8 Letters
AIREDALE: The largest of the terrier breeds, often called the 'King of Terriers,' known for its strong build, keen hunting instincts, and distinctive facial hair.
10 Letters
FOXTERRIER: A versatile and energetic terrier breed, historically used for hunting foxes, available in smooth and wire-haired varieties.
11 Letters
JACKRUSSELL: A popular, energetic terrier breed originating from England, known for its spirited personality and proficiency in hunting small game.
BULLTERRIER: A unique-looking terrier breed known for its distinctive egg-shaped head and muscular build, bred for dog fighting and later for companionship.
More About "terrier type crossword clue"
Terriers are a fascinating and diverse group of dog breeds, originally bred for hunting vermin and small game. Their name derives from the Latin word 'terra,' meaning earth, reflecting their propensity to "go to ground" in pursuit of prey. This historical role has shaped their characteristic feisty, intelligent, and often stubborn personalities, making them beloved companions but also challenging crossword clues.
When you encounter a "terrier type" clue in a crossword, the setter is often looking for a specific breed name. The vast array of terrier breeds, from the tiny Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) to the imposing Airedale, provides a rich vocabulary for crossword constructors. Familiarizing yourself with these names and their typical characteristics can give you a significant advantage in solving related clues.
These dogs are popular not only as pets but also as subjects in popular culture, adding to their presence in puzzles. Their distinct looks, such as the Cairn's shaggy coat or the Westie's bright white fur, often serve as additional hints within a crossword clue. Understanding the nuances of these breeds can help you crack even the trickiest terrier-related challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters required by the puzzle grid to the potential answers. This quickly narrows down the possibilities for clues like "terrier type."
- Look for Breed-Specific Descriptors: Some clues might hint at a specific terrier with words like "Scottish," "white," "toy," or "wiry-haired," pointing you directly to breeds like Scottie, Westie, Yorkie, or Fox Terrier.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While breeds like AIREDALE or SCOTTIE are common, don't forget less frequent but equally valid answers like STAFFY or JACKRUSSELL, especially in more challenging puzzles.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: Use letters from already solved intersecting words to confirm or eliminate potential terrier types. This is a fundamental crossword strategy that is especially useful for common categories.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a dog a 'terrier type'?
Terriers are a group of dog breeds originally bred to hunt vermin and small game. They are typically small to medium-sized, feisty, energetic, and possess a tenacious personality. Their name comes from 'terra,' Latin for earth, reflecting their historical role in going to ground to flush out prey from their dens.
Why are terrier types so common in crosswords?
Terrier types are common in crosswords due to their diverse names, often ranging from short (e.g., CAIRN, WESTIE) to longer (e.g., AIREDALE, FOXTERRIER), making them versatile fillers for various word lengths. Their distinctive characteristics and historical roles also make for interesting and varied clueing opportunities.
How can I identify a terrier type in a crossword clue?
Look for keywords like "dog," "breed," "hound," "small dog," "Scottish dog," or "hunting dog." Clues might also allude to their physical characteristics (e.g., "wirily coated dog," "white canine") or famous examples (e.g., "Toto's breed" for CAIRN). Knowing common terrier names and their specific traits is the best approach.