The Terrier Group

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Terriers are one of many breeds of dogs that were originally bred to hunt. They are extremely skillful in tracking small prey into the ground. In fact, the word "terrier" comes from the Latin word "terra" meaning "earth." Most of the terrier breeds originated in England.

Terriers range in size and stature from the tiny Yorkshire terrier, the petite Cairn Terrier and West Highland White Terrier or Westies, (the adorable little white dog starring in the Cesar Dog Food commercial) to the largest of the group, the AirEdale, standing approximately twenty-three inches high. The group also includes the Scottish Terrier, the Kerry Blue, the Irish Terrier, the Boston Terrier, the smooth and wire-haired Fox Terriers, the Rat Terrier, the Bedlington Terrier, the Sealyham Terrier, Schnauzer, the Skye Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire, the Wheaton Terrier, the Welsh Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont and the Jack Russell, among others.

The American Pit Bull is also a terrier with a unique origin since this breed was originally bred from terrier and the bulldog and is now considered a forbearer to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Along with being gifted with plenty of energy and spirit, terriers are certainly devoted companions and are always eager to please.

Reported By Nan Talleno, KYW Newsradio