Border Terrier Overview

One of the older members of the Terrier family, the Border Terrier is one of the more sociable and behaved breeds. It may still retain its Terrier roots, but many will find this dog to be a bit less frustrating. 

Not that this is a perfect dog, however. It is energetic and can easily become bored. Daily exercise is needed, so this is not an appropriate breed for the laid back owner. It is quite friendly around children and strange dogs, but its history as a ratter should not be ignored. 

This is not a dog to be left alone with smaller pets. A well-fenced yard is quite helpful, as this dog can burn off excess energy there. But Border Terriers are known to be skilled escapists, so it is always important to keep an eye out. 

Its rough coat can become displeasing to the touch if not groomed weekly, and it is recommended to strip dead hair from the coat at least once every three months. 

While generally more eager to please, Border Terriers are still fiery little dogs that prefer to do things their way. They are well-suited for any owner, as long as said owner has a sense of humor and a little patience.

Border Terrier History

True to its appearance, the Border Terrier was never much for elegance. Originating in the 1700s on the border between Scotland and England, this breed was the answer to a difficult conundrum that beset farmers. Foxes were a regular problem, and the conventional working dogs at the time were not making the cut. They were fast enough to chase foxes, but too big to climb into foxholes and vice versa. 

Through a specialized breeding process, a dog was created with the speed of a horse and the size of a fox. On top of that, its wiry fur was ideal for climbing through brambles and thick brush. 

By the end of the 19^th century, the breed began to appear in dog shows and it earned its name Border Terrier. In 1930, the breed was recognized by the AKC. 

Today the Border Terrier is a capable family pet and show dog, with its popularity rising every year. But in spite of all its glory, the breed has never lost touch with its roots, and it still receives work around the world.

Border Terrier Character

Terriers are very smart dogs by nature, although they mostly prefer to stay out of educational settings. Border Terriers are no different. The best training sessions are short and rewarding, as this breed needs to be convinced that it is having fun and that its time is not being wasted. 

Harsh tactics will get the trainer nowhere. Borders are better suited for family life than other Terriers. They are sensible, affectionate, and much more eager to please. This breed is quite patient with children, and it is easy for them to form companionships. This is also true for single or elderly owners.

 Around other dogs, the Border will have fun and be quite a social butterfly. But around smaller animals its instincts are likely to take over, causing it to chase endlessly if not leashed. 

If boredom strikes, it will have no hesitations about barking and digging. A happy Border is one that lives indoors but has plenty of time outdoors. 

What sets the Border Terrier apart from its extensive family is simple. They are long lived, affectionate, and much more sensible; making them a more ideal family pet.

Border Terrier Care

The Border Terrier must be brushed weekly and have the coat professionally stripped twice a year. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat. This breed has a high tolerance for pain and will rarely show any sign of illness or distress. Therefore, it is imperative to closely monitor their health. Border Terriers are prone to hip dysplasia, PRA, cataracts, seizures, heart defects, allergies, and a low tolerance for anesthesia. It is important to not over-feed this breed as they have a tendency to gain weight easily.

Border Terrier Training

Eager and willing to please, the Border Terrier requires early socialization to prevent timidity as well as early obedience. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods that break their spirit and make training more difficult. Training must be done with praise, motivation, reward, respect, patience, and consistency. The Border Terrier displays talent in such areas as tracking, agility, competitive obedience, and hunting.

Border Terrier Health

Common Health Issues for the Border Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Border Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Border Terrier Resources