Terriers - a Functional Approach
Historically, Terriers were developed in the different areas of Great Britain. In many cases, the Terrier breed's name still reflects these areas. Alternatively, Terriers may be classified and studied by their function reflected by their leg length. For example, in this 1890's painting of a Bedlington and Dandie Dinmont Terrier, you can see how one breed became two based on differing leg lengths. There are also other examples.
Between political correctness and modern insecticides, terrier work is now almost redundant. However, it is vital for those interested in how and why modern terrier breeds evolved during the last few centuries to understand how and why their construction developed. That is why a separate section on the Historical Function of Terriers is included.
With short legged terriers, the depth of the chest requires special consideration. That is why I have categorised them into the two different sections. Short legged normally built Terriers that are primarily required to work above ground, but capable of entering a den, and short legged Terriers with deep chests that primarily work beneath the ground.
Long Legged Terriers primarily work above the ground but possess terrier fronts so they are still capable of entering and working within the confines of a den.