Border Terrier
A Plucky Dog From A Working Heritage!
Heritage And Description:
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. By all accounts,
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, the Border is a good natured and affectionate fellow. While he is by no means
a lap dog, he thrives on your constant companionship. His intelligence makes him easy to train, though his independent nature will
require someone with strong leadership and kindly persistence to take charge of his training.
Activity Level:
This breed is quite active and inquisitive. Plenty of exercise is needed to use up his energy and keep
him out of mischief.
Space Needs:
The Border Terrier can adapt to an apartment if he is given sufficient walks and playtimes. Any
property with grounds should be secured to prevent tunneling under perimeter fencing.
Children:
This breed is sociable and likes children. However, he plays hard and does best with older,
considerate children who don't provoke pets.
The "good sense" recommendation is to have constant adult supervision when pets
are interacting with children.
Elderly:
Good companions for elderly owners who are still active. They are more reserved than most terriers and
do not require extensive grooming.
Additional Reading Resources:
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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