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Chilean Terrier
Terrier breed from Chile
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Chilean Terrier
The Chilean Terrier is a small, short-coated terrier breed originating in Chile. It is known for its alert, energetic, and loyal temperament, and is described as intelligent and adaptable. The breed is classified in the Terrier group and its recognition status varies by registry. Adult males and females typically weigh between 6 and 8 kilograms and stand 32 to 38 centimeters tall. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. The coat is short, and grooming needs are low (score 1 out of 5), with minimal shedding (score 2). The breed has a high energy level (score 4) and is moderately trainable (score 4). It is moderately suitable for children (score 3) and other dogs (score 3), and is well-suited to apartment living (score 4).
Quick facts
Chilean Terrier at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupTerrier
OriginChile
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight6–8 kilogram
Female weight6–8 kilogram
Male height32–38 centimetre
Female height32–38 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Chilean Terrier is believed to have descended from Fox Terriers and other European terrier breeds brought to Chile by immigrants during the 18th and 19th centuries. These dogs were developed as a distinct breed for hunting vermin on farms and estates. The breed is considered Chile's first recognized native breed, though it is not yet recognized by major international kennel clubs. In its native country, it is often called the 'Fox Terrier Chileno'. The exact timeline of its development and recognition is not fully documented, and the breed's history relies on accounts of European terriers being imported and selectively bred in Chile.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
6–8 kilogramAdult weight32–38 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Alertenergeticloyalintelligentadaptable
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Chilean Terrier-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Chilean Terrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight6–8 kilogramAdult female weight6–8 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Chilean Terrier?
The Chilean Terrier is a small breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 6 to 8 kilograms for both males and females, and height ranges from 32 to 38 centimeters. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Chilean Terrier?
The breed is described as alert, energetic, loyal, intelligent, and adaptable. However, individual dogs may vary. As a terrier, it may exhibit typical terrier traits such as high prey drive and independence.
How much exercise does a Chilean Terrier need?
The breed has a high energy level (score 4 out of 5). Regular daily exercise, such as walks and playtime, is recommended to meet its energy needs.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low (score 1 out of 5) due to the short coat. Shedding is minimal (score 2 out of 5). Occasional brushing and routine care should suffice.
Is the Chilean Terrier good for apartment living?
Yes, the breed is well-suited to apartment living (score 4 out of 5), provided it gets sufficient exercise. Its small size and adaptability make it a good fit for smaller spaces.
How does the Chilean Terrier get along with children and other dogs?
The breed has moderate suitability for children (score 3 out of 5) and other dogs (score 3 out of 5). Early socialization and supervision are recommended, as individual temperaments can vary.
Where does the Chilean Terrier originate from?
The breed originates from Chile. It is believed to have descended from Fox Terriers and other European terriers brought by immigrants in the 18th and 19th centuries, developed for hunting vermin.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.