The Border Terrier is a small, very tough and tenacious dog, hailing from the border region between Scotland and England. They were originally bred as working dogs, and used for hunting, particularly foxes but other animals considered to be vermin too. With hunting in their genes, they are a fit breed, but not particularly demanding for activity.
They may be somewhat calmer than most of the other terrier dog breeds, however they do think for themselves. Even when well trained, they are likely to carry out obedience commands only for as long as they think is a reasonable amount of time.
The Border Terrier is similar in size to some of it’s similar, sporty terrier cousins, like the Irish Terrier. However, they have a much shorter muzzle than their Irish counterparts, which is housed on their otter-like head and broad skull. Their wiry coat, in shade and texture fits well into its natural, arable border landscape.
Border Terriers are members of the Terrier Group in the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club (KC) in the UK.
If you want to learn more about the Border Terrier, read on as we explore the origins of the breed, their characteristics and traits as well as their suitability as pets.
History Of The Border Terrier
Originating from an area close to my heart, the rugged countryside along the border of England and Scotland. The Border Terrier was bred as a tough, hardy dog capable of hunting various animals and vermin. It was for the hunt though, particularly the Border Hunt, that these dogs were bred with the purpose of bolting foxes.
Historically, they would work alongside foxhounds, chasing prey out of their dens and hiding places. Their small size and agile frame, allowed them to squeeze into narrow spaces. Attributes that favored them well to their role, essential for a dog to follow foxes into their burrows.
These traits have been refined over centuries, making the Border Terrier a proficient, fearless and persistent hunter. They do adapt well to other lifestyles very well, but the hunting instinct in them never really leaves.
It remains a very popular breed to this day, ranking 81st out 154 breeds in 2006 AKC registration popularity. It ranked 10th in the UK’s Kennel Club registrations of the same year, and increased to 8th most popular by 2008.
Breed Origin
The breed’s name itself, ‘Border Terrier,’ is derived from its place of origin, but historically it also went by other names. In the 18th and early 19th Centuries they were commonly called the Coquetdale Terrier or Redesdale Terrier. These were both specific areas in the Northumberland area, south of the Border, but both names were for the same dog.
They have a shared ancestry with the Bedlington Terrier and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, but all have their own distinctive look and characteristics. The Border in particular, was bred to be strong enough to keep up with the hunt horses, but also to fit into burrows and dens.
By the late 19th Century, the more general Border Terrier name was the breed norm. In 1920 The Border Terrier Club was formed, and the breed became recognized by the Kennel Club in the same year.
Quick Facts
- Small and Capable – The Border Terrier is distinctively built with a narrow, compact frame. It is a strong and agile breed despite its small size. Qualities that made it an excellent hunter, capable of keeping pace with horses and hounds across rough terrains.
- Fearlessly Tenacious – Renowned for its dauntless spirit, the Border Terrier is a breed that never backs down from a challenge. This grit was crucial in its traditional role of fox hunting. Its bold and tenacious nature is well balanced however, with a friendly demeanor, and they do make a loyal and brave companion.
- Versatile and Intelligent – With a lively disposition, the Border Terrier is capable of being very active when bred for hunting, but are just as happy with moderate exercise as a companion dog too. Thy are intelligent and if you don’t train early they will get used to thinking things out for themselves. So training is very important to encourage good behavior.
- Dominant Personality Traits – While generally sociable, the Border Terrier can display a dominant streak, particularly around other small dogs. Effective training and early socialization can help manage this trait at home and in public.
Characteristics Of The Border Terrier
You might hear the Border Terrier affectionately referred to as simply the ‘Border’ but other than that, they don’t really have any other nicknames. They might mistakenly be called a ‘Border Foxer,’ but that is usually reserved for the Border Terrier and Fox Terrier mix breed.
Border Terrier puppies are typically born in litters ranging from 2 to 8, but more often than not, between 4-5 pups. As with most pups, the first few weeks should be spent with their mother and siblings to learn critical social and hierarchal structures and skills.
They will be ready for their new homes at around 8 weeks of age. A prospective owner can expect to pay upward of $800 to $1500 from a reputable breeder, but their popularity and demand may effect this. It’s worth paying a bit more from a breeder that can provide health screening certificates.
Appearance
The Border Terrier’s face is one of its most defining features, with a broad skull and a short muzzle, giving it a distinctive ‘otter’ head. It would be quite easy to pick out in a line-up amongst it’s terrier cousins. Its alert and inquisitive expression is also quite definitive. It is a small dog, built for stamina and agility rather than speed.
This sturdy breed stands about 12 to 16 inches at the shoulder as an adult, with males slightly larger than females. They typically weigh between 11.5 and 15.5 pounds in good health, with a well-proportioned body that reaches full maturity by around 15 to 18 months of age.
Their legs are strong but nimble, built for agility, and navigating their way in to burrows and dens. The paws are compact and well-padded, equipped with thick pads that make them suitable for hunting on varied terrains. Their physical attributes are ideally suited for their original role as a fox hunter, but they are just as comfortable in a far less demanding lifestyle too.
| Male | Female | |
| Height | 33 – 40 cm (13 – 16 in) | 28 – 36 cm (12 – 14 in) |
| Weight | 6 – 7 kg (13 – 15.5 lb) | 5 – 6.5 kg (11.5 – 14 lb) |
Coat
The Border Terrier has a distinctive double coat, suited to their native, rugged terrain. Soft and dense underneath with a wiry, weather-resistant outer coat. They are seasonal shedders and need much more maintenance in the shedding season to keep their coat in good order.
Color
The breed standard coat colors can be red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, or wheaten. They may well come in a combination of these, like black and tan, red wheaten or a blue or red grizzle but these are not breed standard.
Temperament
Border Terriers are often affectionate dogs, with good obedience and a good-temper. They can be energetic and fearless in the field, but are just as happy being calm and gentle at home. Their small size and good temperament make them good companion dogs for people of all ages.
They can be strong willed, think for themselves and even with great training they tend to hold onto their chase instinct. But that are eager to please, generally well behaved and easy to manage as long as you don’t expect absolute obedience. They don’t do things out of malice and they develop a great respect and loyalty for their owner.
These Terriers make good family pets and usually get along well with children and other pets, especially if they are raised with them. They love to play games but should only be let off-leash in a fenced area.
Lifespan
Typically, healthy Border Terriers live for between 12 – 15 years with the average around 14 years. This is typical for a terrier breed that is well exercised, and part of a loving home.
Known Health Issues
The breed is relatively healthy and hardy but can be prone to some common health issues. Conditions most likely to occur in a Border Terrier include:
Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome (CECS) – Also known as ‘Spike’s Disease,’ this condition is somewhat similar to epilepsy but does not actually cause true seizures. Dogs affected by CECS may show signs of abnormal cramping, muscle tremors, and start behaving unusual for them.
- Treatment – While there is no cure, the condition can often be managed with dietary changes and medications that help control the symptoms.
Hip Dysplasia – This is a common genetic condition in many dog breeds where the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.
- Treatment – Treatments can include lifestyle modifications, anti-inflammatory medications, and in severe cases, surgery.
Heart Defects – Border Terriers can be prone to various congenital heart defects. Diagnosis may require specific medical evaluations such as echocardiograms (ECG), similar to what you would use to identify these conditions in a human.
- Treatment – Treatment depends on the specific heart condition but can include medications, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgical interventions.
Patellar Luxation – This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap, which can be painful and cause limping.
- Treatment – Treatment options range from physical therapy and weight management to surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition.
Dental Issues – Due to their small mouths, Border Terriers can suffer from dental problems such as overcrowding of teeth, leading to increased risk of periodontal diseases.
- Treatment – Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial, along with good oral hygiene practices at home.
Daily Life
What is everyday life with a Border Terrier actually like for owner and dog?
Let’s explore this a little.
Food and Diet
Border Terriers need a high-quality diet formulated for small, active dogs. The exact amount will vary depending on their age, and also their activity level. It’s important to monitor this to prevent obesity, especially since they are prone to gaining weight if not exercised regularly. As a guide, around one and a half cups of kibble per day is reasonable for the average, moderately active adult.
A high quality kibble, or wet food with plenty of protein and nutrients is recommended, and spread their meals between two to three times a day depending on how active they are. As pups, they will need double the amount of meals spread across the day.
Exercise
Daily exercise is a must for Border Terriers. They are happiest when they get plenty of activity, especially tasks that align with their terrier instincts. While they do like plenty of stimulation, they will adjust well to more sedentary, apartment lifestyles too. As long as they get at least an hour of moderate walking a day, spread across the day. They enjoy activities that challenge both their minds and bodies, and do well with toys like snuffle balls and mats.
Family Compatability
Border Terriers make excellent family pets with their adaptable and affectionate nature. They do well in most homes and lifestyles, including with children and other pets. However, their strong prey drive may be a concern around small animals, and often remains even with the most consistent training. With early socialization though, they can learn to behave well with other pets and if they are raised with them this is rarely an issue.
These Terriers do well in active families, but also make great companion pets for city dwellers, or the elderly that are either less active or have less open space for long walks. They are very adaptable, not too demanding and with their small size they are not a difficult dog to control and manage. A good choice for first time owners or those that lack the experience or confidence to manage a large dog.
Training
Training should begin early for Border Terriers, focusing on basic obedience and socialization. It’s really important that this is consistent or they will start to make decisions and think for themselves. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise. They will never be the most obedient breed, even with consistent training, but they are by no means naughty or malicious. Their strong will and tenacity comes from their breeding, but they are still highly trainable dogs.
They should be kept on a leash when walking, particularly in unfamiliar areas where their chase instinct might overwhelm them. A good, medium sized yard is ideal if you want to let them run and play free.
Socializing
Early socialization is crucial for the Border Terrier to manage their hunting instincts and ensure they grow up as well-rounded dogs. It’s important for all young dogs, but moreso for those in households that have other pets or children. Starting early helps to manage their hunting instincts in the home and helps the dog to understand the norms of family life. Introducing them to various people, sights, and sounds normal to your home, develops their confidence and understanding of the home environment.
Grooming
The Borders wiry coat needs minimal grooming, but they do shed seasonally. In the ‘off season’ they are low-volume shedders and just need weekly brushing and the occasional trimming of the neck, head and legs. During the shedding season however, they need daily brushing to prevent their hair from getting everywhere, and to keep their coat nice and well maintained.
Breed Traits
| Positive Traits | Negative Traits |
| Moderate activity needs, not overly playful or needy | Early training and socialization is essential |
| Intelligent and easy to train | Nature is to chase if off the leash |
| Good with children and other dogs | Not the most obedient, but is eager to please |
| Suitable to most households and owners | Will shed seasonally, needing daily brushing at the time |
Breed FAQs
Is a Border Terrier a good family dog?
Generally, the Border Terrier makes a good family pet with a gentle enough temperament to get on well with all the family. Early socialization can help to develop a well-adjusted dog for living with children or other pets. Without this, their terrier nature may see them become brave and nippy, giving chase to any small animals it doesn’t recognize.
Do Border Terriers bark a lot?
They are not overly vocal, but they will bark to alert you or possibly if they are bored and wanting your attention.
Are Border Terriers good apartment pets?
Yes, they can adapt to apartment living pretty well. They don’t have high exercise needs, and as long as they are given regular, moderate walks and enough attention, they will be quite happy.
Summary
The Border Terrier is a much loved breed in its native UK, and across the pond. Its a breed steeped in rich history and with a typical terrier character. Despite its relatively small size, it is known for its toughness in the field and affection in the home. It is an adaptable breed, comfortable with various different living situations and activity levels. They can make a loving companion for people of all ages, and with their smaller size, are quite easy to manage.
They do need to be socialized early if you want them to live well with other animals, otherwise their terrier instincts can remain strong. With proper care, training, and socialization, the Border Terrier excels both as a family pet and a capable working dog.