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The Border Terrier, a small yet sturdy breed, is known for its distinctive otter-shaped head and affectionate, lively personality. Originally bred for fox hunting along the English-Scottish border, this agile and determined terrier excels in both companionship and work.
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The Border Terrier, a small yet sturdy breed, is known for its distinctive otter-shaped head and affectionate, lively personality. Originally bred for fox hunting along the English-Scottish border, this agile and determined terrier excels in both companionship and work.
Questions To Ask A Breeder
- Are you are registered breeder?
- Can we meet in person?
- Have they been socialised?
Breed Characteristics
Grooming
Exercise
Size Range
The Ultimate Border Terrier Guide
About Border Terrier
Crafted to aid farmers in managing fox populations, Border Terriers are brimming with energy and demand regular exercise. Their affectionate disposition and adaptability to diverse living conditions make them a beloved choice for many households.
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Weight
Male: 6 - 7 kg Female: 5 - 6 kg
Height
Male: 33 - 41 cm Female: 28 - 36 cm
Grooming
Brush their coats weekly.
Origins
Border Terriers hail from the rugged Cheviot Hills straddling England and Scotland. This region, encompassing modern Northumberland, is known as the Border Country.
These dogs emerged to put an end to the long struggle between farmers and the elusive hill fox. The farmers and shepherds needed a breed capable of swift pursuit and small enough to wriggle through narrow hiding spots, flushing out the foxes. Border Terriers ticked all these boxes and more.
Historically, they bore different names like the Ullswater Terrier, Coquetdale Terrier, and Reedwater Terrier, each tracing back to regions in northern England.
Key Characteristics Of Border Terriers
Are Border Terriers Family-Friendly?
They are generally amicable to people of all ages, making them an excellent choice for a family companion.
Common Health Issues & Considerations
Border Terriers may suffer from:
Syringomyelia
A condition where their skulls turn out to be too small for their brains.
Hip dysplasia
Perthes disease
A variety of heart defects
Juvenile cataracts
Nature / Temperament
They are even-tempered, intelligent, and affectionate.
Suitable Environment
While Border Terriers can adapt to apartment living, they thrive best in homes with access to a yard where they can romp and play.
Border Terriers possess a strong prey drive and tend to dig. A securely fenced yard is crucial to keep them safe and prevent escapes. The fence should be high enough and embedded into the ground to prevent jumping or digging out.
Other Considerations
- Borders are pack-oriented and should live indoors close to their human companions. They are exceptionally loyal; once a bond is forged, it endures for eternity. They will be obedient and well-behaved most of the time.
- These dogs easily gain weight. Ensure they receive the proper amount of food and daily exercise to prevent excessive weight gain.
- They have a high pain tolerance, so if your pup falls ill, you may only notice if they change their behavior. Be vigilant for signs of withdrawal or unusual quietness.
How can I take good care of my Border Terrier?
Nutrition
Border Terriers need about 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dog food divided into two meals. Adjust this amount based on their activity level.
However, it’s not advisable to free-feed your pups. Some owners leave food out for the dog to eat whenever they feel hungry, increasing the risk of obesity. Instead, measure the amount of food and feed them twice a day.
Grooming
The scruffy, thick, and wiry coats of Border Terriers demand weekly grooming. Without proper care, their coats will mat and tangle.
Invest in a slicker brush to tackle those stubborn tangles. A detangling product can also be helpful. Remember to brush their tails as well. While this may seem like a lot of work, it minimizes loose hair shedding.
Recommended Grooming Tips
Clean your dog’s teeth every day. You can use a pet toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for dogs.
If your Border Terrier’s coat gets wet, towel dry it.
Only bathe your dog when it’s very necessary.
Clip their nails every 2 or 3 weeks.
Strip their coat once or twice per year.
Exercise
Border Terriers require a substantial amount of exercise, both physical and mental. The easiest way to achieve both is through regular walks.
Walks help them burn off energy and stimulate their minds through the various sights, sounds, and smells they encounter.
Training
Compared to other Terrier breeds, Border Terriers are relatively easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. These dogs excel at focusing on tasks.
It’s crucial to avoid harsh discipline during training, as it can result in unresponsiveness or aggression.
This is general information and should not be relied on for adopting or purchasing advice.
Most Asked Border Terrier Questions
Like any other terrier breed, these dogs are true vermin hunters. So, it’s better to keep them in a fenced yard.
When you take them out for a walk, be sure to keep them on a leash as well.
Border Terriers have double coats, which are made up of soft undercoats and rough top coats. Thus, they do shed fur although not much.
If you find fur around your home, brush them more often. Vacuuming on a regular basis and washing their bedding every once in a while can also help to keep this to a minimum.
They generally get on well with toddlers. Border Terriers are one of the few breeds that can match the young ones’ energy levels all day long. Still, they do need constant supervision to keep both the kids and pups safe.
Border Terriers for sale can cost between $900 – $1300, depending on the breeder. Because the breed is prone to a number of genetic health issues, it’s best if you choose a breeder that’s part of a responsible breeder organisation such as RPBA.
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