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Border Terrier History

The Border Terrier originates in, and takes its name from, the area near the border between Scotland and England. Their original purpose was to kill foxes and rodents, but they have been used to hunt otters and badgers too. The AKC officially recognized the Border Terrier as a breed in 1930.

Border Terrier Temperament

Border Terriers are spirited little dogs that are intelligent and fearless. They need moderate amounts of exercise, but when given the opporunity to be vigorous, they do no hesitate to participate.Borders get along well with children and other dogs, but if there is a dog that they do not like, they do not hesitate to start a fight. Since they are bred to hunt small animals, they are not the best fit for households with small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs. Since they are considered "vermin" dogs, they are prone to digging holes and will do this to entertain themselves when bored. This breed is fine with strangers but willnot hestateto guard their home.

Border Terrier Appearance

Border Terriers are a small dog that usually weigh between 10 to 15 pounds and stand 10 to 16 inches at the withers. The Border Terrier has a double coat consisting of a short, dense, soft undercoat and harsh, wiry weather and dirt resistant, close-lying outer coat with no curl or wave. Acceptable colours are grizzle-and-tan, blue-and-tan, red, and wheaten, all colours with a dark muzzle preferred. White is not allowed, except for a small patch on the chest.

Border Terrier Grooming

Border Terriers are a low shedding breed. Their coats require little maintenance to keep clean and require hand stripping or shaving to keep the coat looking neat. If you are unwilling to do this, the dog must be taken to a professional groomer.

Border Terrier Life Expectancy and Health Problems

The most common health problems of this breed are Hip Displaysia, Seizures, Cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy. The average lifespan of this breed is 12 to 14 years.

Famous Border Terriers

Puffy from the movie All About Mary

Border Terrier Pros and Cons

This simplified list may help you decide if a Border Terrier might be a good fit for your lifestyle.

Do You Want

• a small dog that is easy to pick up?
• a dog that doesn't shed a lot?
• a small dog that can do vigorous activities?
• a good watchdog?

Do You NOT Want

• a dog that is likely to chase small animals?
• a dog that likes to dig?
• a dog that barks a lot?

Useful Border Terrier Links

The Border Terrier Club of America

Border Terrier Canada