Border Terrier Dog Breed Information - All About Dogs

Border Terrier

Border Terrier

Description

The Border Terrier originated during the 18th century in low Cheviot Hills, which divides Scotland and northeast England. Terriers were never intended to be simply household pets, as a matter of fact, these dogs were originally bred as fox and vermin hunters. Although the Border Terrier is relatively rare outside his native land, he is still very appreciated as a companion dog and continues to be used for hunting.

Height: 11.5-15.5 inches  Weight: 12-15 pounds  Lifespan: 13-15 years

Characteristics

The Border Terrier is quite small yet compact, agile and very energetic dog. Border Terriers have great stamina, they are powerful, healthy and very good-natured animals. This breed is able to think and act quite independently. Comparable Breed: Irish Terrier and Kerry Blue Terrier.

Character

Good-natured and playful, the Border Terrier gets very attached to his master and enjoys communication with him. Dogs of this breed are calmer than other varieties of terriers. They do well with older children, and they are very friendly with other dogs. However, they love chasing cats and other small pets. If left alone for a long time, the Border Terrier gets bored and lonely, tends to bark excessively and becomes damaging to objects around him. Border Terriers are distrustful of strangers but never aggressive. This breed is not recommended for inexperienced breeders, apathetic people or for people who are prone to a sedentary lifestyle.

Coat / Care

The Border Terrier is covered with a double-layered coat which protects it from adverse weather. The outer layer is composed of rough, wiry hair which is close-fitting to the body. The undercoat is short and dense. Border Terriers are small hypoallergenic dogs. The color may be blue with brown, gray, brown and red. The muzzle is dark. Border Terriers require weekly brushing, and also clipping and trimming every few months. Bathe your dog only when absolutely necessary. Use a mild shampoo, in order not to disturb the natural protective properties of the hair.

Health Problems

The Border Terrier has a very high pain threshold, and in general, this dog rarely complains of some illness. But it does not mean that this breed does not have health issues. Typical diseases are hip dysplasia, progressive retinal dystrophy, cataracts, epilepsy, heart disease and allergies. The Border Terrier does not tolerate anesthesia. It is important to restrict the amount of food because Terriers have a tendency to obesity. The Border Terrier has a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years.

Weight / Height

The male Border Terrier dog breed’s height is around 13 – 15.5 inches and weighs around 12 and 15 pounds. Female Border Terrier dogs can reach a size from 11.5 – 14 inches and weighs between 12 and 15 pounds.

Training

Inpatient and very stubborn, the Border Terrier requires early socialization and obedience training in order to prevent self-consciousness and domination. Too strict or oppressive methods will only aggravate the learning process. On the contrary, lessons should be based on motivation, praise, respect, patience and consistency. The Border Terrier is especially talented in areas such as tracking, the speed of reaction and hunting.

Activity

The Border Terrier needs daily and regular exercise; besides, he gets pleasure from performing his daily routine. He loves to take part in all kinds of family activities and enjoys long walks with his owner, but cannot be trusted off-leash. Border Terriers can bear apartment living, provided that they are physically and mentally stimulated. These dogs love running freely in a securely fenced yard.

Border Terrier

Photo Credit: Samuel Cockman/Flickr; Jon’s pics/Flickr

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