Border Terrier
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Description & Heritage:
The Border Terrier is known foremost as a working dog that originated in the border region between England and Scotland. He was a great asset to the farmers in controlling the fox population that threatened the livestock, as well as ridding properties of unwanted vermin. Written accounts of this breed's existence date back to 1880, though without doubt they were present long before that.Back in its working days, the Border went along with the pack hounds on foxhunts and when the prey was grounded, he was the one expected to enter the den and bolt the fox. He did his job very well!
This plucky terrier with a high degree of gameness, has many attributes well-suited for the job he performed. He has a tight, wiry and weather resistant coat that tolerates the harsh weather of the border country; a flexible body and ideal size for entering and traversing dens; and a distinctive bark which can be heard underground. In addition he has the stamina to run for long distances and keep up with the pack.Nowadays, the Border is mainly a family companion and dog show participant.
The Border Terrier, though small, is long-legged and has a wiry, less formal looking coat. His expression is very alert and his face has an appealing and whiskery cuteness. His head shape has been described as resembling an Otter.
Appearance:
Height: 11 inches Weight: 13-15 lbs.Color variations: Red, Wheaten, Grizzle/Tan, Blue/Tan
Coat and Care:
The coat is hard, dense and closely fitting. It requires only a modest amount of grooming and sheds very little. However, to keep it in good condition, stripping should be done about twice a year.
Personality and Traits:
This small terrier breed is friendly around strangers and quite sociable around other dogs. He does have strong terrier characteristics and can be a barker if bored. Digging is also one of his specialties left over from his working days. Given an opportunity, he may put these skills to use if he spots something interesting on the other side of the fence. Wise owners, acknowledging these natural instincts, will take the precaution of sinking some wire into the ground around their property lines.
With his family he is a good natured and affectionate fellow, though not a lap dog. His intelligence makes him easy to train, though his independent nature will require someone with strong leadership and persistence to take charge of this.
Activity Level:
This breed is quite active and likes to have plenty of exercise.
Space Needs:
The Border Terrier can adapt to an apartment if he is given sufficient exercise. Any property with grounds should be secured to prevent tunneling under perimeter fencing.
Children:
Borders do best in families with older considerate children.
Elderly:
Suitable for elderly owners who are still active. They are more reserved than most terriers and do not require extensive grooming.
Additional Book Recommendation:
BORDER TERRIER - AN OWNER'S COMPANION
Written by authors have bred, shown, and worked Border Terriers for many years. Includes history of the breed, breed standard, choosing a puppy, training, nutrition, health matters, pregnancy and whelping.
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