border terrier

Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is a popular breed in the UK, known for its playful energy, intelligence, and loyal companionship. Originally bred as a working dog, the Border Terrier has retained its keen instincts and tenacity, yet it fits well into family life, making it a favourite among dog lovers. This article will provide an in-depth look at the Border Terrier, covering its history, characteristics, and care needs.

Table of Contents

What are the pros and cons of owning a Border Terrier?

Pros

  • Affectionate and Friendly: Border Terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are generally good with children, making them excellent family dogs.
  • Energetic and Playful: With a high energy level, Border Terriers enjoy playtime and outdoor activities. They make ideal pets for active individuals or families who can engage in regular exercise with them.
  • Intelligent and Trainable: Border Terriers are intelligent dogs that respond well to training, especially when positive reinforcement is used. Their eagerness to learn can make obedience training enjoyable, although patience is sometimes needed for their independent streak.
  • Low Shedding and Minimal Grooming Needs: Their wiry coat doesn’t shed heavily, which can be an advantage for those looking for a lower-maintenance dog. Grooming generally involves occasional brushing and hand-stripping twice a year to keep the coat healthy.
  • Good Size for Different Living Spaces: Border Terriers are compact and adaptable, making them suitable for both small homes and apartments, as long as they receive enough exercise.
  • Long Lifespan: Border Terriers are generally healthy and can live up to 12-15 years with proper care, offering a long-term companionship.

Cons

  • High Exercise Requirements: While their energy is a pro, it can be a con for those who aren’t able to provide regular exercise. Border Terriers need daily physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
  • Strong Prey Drive: Bred for hunting, Border Terriers have a natural instinct to chase smaller animals like squirrels and rabbits. This can make off-leash walking a challenge and may lead to issues with small pets unless they are socialised early.
  • Can Be Independent and Stubborn: Border Terriers have an independent nature, which can make training challenging at times. Consistency and patience are key, but they may test boundaries more than other breeds.
  • Prone to Separation Anxiety: Border Terriers are highly people-oriented and may struggle with being left alone for long periods. This can lead to destructive behaviours or barking when they feel anxious or bored.
  • Moderate Barking: Although not overly vocal, Border Terriers can be alert and will bark at new or unexpected sounds. They may become a bit “barky” if they aren’t given enough mental and physical stimulation.
  • Health Issues: While generally healthy, Border Terriers are prone to certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia, allergies, and Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome (CECS). Regular check-ups and preventive care are important to manage these potential health issues.
Border Terrier Overview

Brief History of the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier hails from the rugged border region between England and Scotland, where it was bred in the 18th century as a working dog used for hunting foxes and other small game. The breed's agility, endurance, and tenacity made it an ideal partner for farmers and hunters, helping to control the fox population and protect livestock. Recognised by the Kennel Club in 1920, the Border Terrier has since evolved into a beloved companion dog, known for its adaptability and charm.

Are There Different Types of Border Terrier?

While there is only one recognised type of Border Terrier, their coat colour can vary. Common colours include red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, and wheaten. The breed is characterised by its dense, wiry coat, which provides protection against harsh weather, and a distinctive "otter-like" head shape that adds to its unique appearance.

How Big Do Border Terriers Get?

Border Terriers are small-sized dog. They typically stand between 25-28 cm (10-11 inches) at the shoulder and weigh around 5-7 kg. Their compact size, combined with a sturdy and muscular build, makes them agile and capable, despite their small stature.

How Much Exercise Does a Border Terrier Need?

Border Terriers are an active breed that requires at least 45-60 minutes of exercise daily. This can include walks, playtime, and off-lead runs in secure areas where they can explore and engage their strong hunting instincts. Border Terriers are happiest when they have opportunities to use both their bodies and minds, so adding activities like agility or scent games to their routine is beneficial.

How Energetic is a Border Terrier?

Border Terriers are highly energetic and need plenty of stimulation to stay happy. They are playful and curious, with a natural zest for life that lasts well into their senior years. Although they are small, they have significant stamina and enjoy activities that engage their natural instincts, such as digging or tracking. They are ideal for owners who enjoy an active lifestyle and can provide regular exercise.

Are Border Terriers Easy to Train?

Border Terriers are intelligent and quick to learn, but they can also be independent and occasionally stubborn. With consistent, positive reinforcement, they respond well to training, especially when it’s made fun and engaging. Early socialisation and obedience training are recommended to help them learn to interact well with other animals and people. Because of their hunting background, recall training is particularly important if they are allowed off-lead.

How Much Do Border Terriers Shed?

Border Terriers have a dense, wiry coat that sheds minimally throughout the year, making them relatively low-maintenance. While they do shed, the coarse texture of their fur means that regular grooming can effectively manage any loose hair. Their coat should be hand-stripped a couple of times a year to remove dead fur and keep it in optimal condition.

How Often Should I Groom a Border Terrier?

Border Terriers are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Weekly brushing is typically enough to keep their coat in good shape, and occasional hand-stripping helps maintain its texture and appearance. Bathing is only needed occasionally, as their coats are naturally dirt-repellent. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing should also be part of their grooming routine.

Do Border Terriers Bark Excessively?

Border Terriers are not known to be excessive barkers, but they will bark to alert their owners to something unusual. They may bark when excited or when they detect a potential "intruder" in the home or yard. With proper training, unnecessary barking can usually be managed, making them a quieter breed in general compared to some other terriers.

Are Border Terriers Good with Children?

Border Terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them good with children. They are generally gentle and tolerant, though supervision is always advised with young children to ensure play remains safe. Border Terriers are often playful and enjoy engaging with kids, making them well-suited to family life.

What is the Temperament of Border Terriers?

Border Terriers are known for their friendly, affectionate, and spirited temperament. They are loyal and enjoy being close to their families, thriving on companionship. Although they are brave and determined, they are not typically aggressive and get along well with other dogs when properly socialised. Border Terriers are versatile and adapt well to various lifestyles, making them great companions for families, singles, and seniors alike.

fish skin thins

How Do Border Terriers Get Along with Other Pets?

With the right socialisation, Border Terriers can get along with other pets, though their hunting instincts may make them inclined to chase smaller animals. Introducing them to other pets slowly and positively from a young age helps ensure they develop respectful relationships. They typically get along well with other dogs, though they may occasionally exhibit a feisty streak around new dogs.

Can Border Terriers Live in Apartments?

Border Terriers can adapt to apartment living if they receive enough daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their small size and relatively quiet nature make them suitable for smaller spaces, though they do best in homes where they have opportunities for outdoor activities. Regular walks and play sessions are essential for apartment-dwelling Border Terriers to keep them physically and mentally fit.

How Does the Border Terrier Cope with Being Left Alone?

Border Terriers are people-oriented and don’t like being left alone for extended periods. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long, leading to behaviours such as barking or destructive chewing. An ideal environment for a Border Terrier includes regular human interaction or another pet for company, along with toys and mental stimulation to keep them occupied.

What are the Common Health Problems in Border Terriers?

Border Terriers are generally healthy dogs, though they can be prone to certain health issues, including:

  • Hip dysplasia: A condition that affects the hip joint.
  • Patellar luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
  • Allergies: Some Border Terriers may develop skin allergies or sensitivities.
  • Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome (CECS): A hereditary condition that can cause muscle cramps.
  • Heart issues: Some may be prone to heart murmurs or congenital heart defects.

What is the Lifespan of Border Terriers?

Border Terriers typically have a lifespan of 13-15 years. With a healthy diet, regular exercise, and proper medical care, some Border Terriers may live even longer, enjoying a full life with their families.

bully braids for dogs

How Much Does a Border Terrier Cost to Keep Each Month?

The monthly cost of owning a Border Terrier depends on food, grooming, and healthcare. On average, expect to spend between ÂŁ40-ÂŁ80 per month, which includes high-quality food, grooming tools, and routine vet visits. Pet insurance is also recommended and may add an additional ÂŁ10-ÂŁ30 per month.

How Intelligent is a Border Terrier?

Border Terriers are very intelligent, ranking high in problem-solving and learning abilities. They enjoy tasks that engage their minds and excel in activities such as agility, obedience, and scent work. However, their intelligence means they need consistent, engaging training to keep them focused and prevent boredom.

Are Border Terriers Sociable?

Border Terriers are sociable and enjoy spending time with people and other dogs. They are friendly, outgoing, and enjoy being part of family activities. Due to their strong people-oriented nature, they thrive in homes where they can have plenty of social interaction and feel part of the family.

Pate for dogs

What are Common Behavioural Traits in Border Terriers?

Typical Border Terrier traits include:

  • Loyalty: Border Terriers are known for their strong attachment to their families.
  • Playfulness: They are playful and energetic, often retaining a puppy-like enthusiasm well into adulthood.
  • Independence: They are independent thinkers, a trait that reflects their history as hunting dogs.
  • Affection: They are highly affectionate and thrive on close human contact.

What is the Best Diet for a Border Terrier?

Border Terriers thrive on a balanced, high-quality diet rich in protein. Feeding them a mix of dry and wet food or a raw diet can help maintain their health. Including vegetables, healthy fats, and occasional treats can support their coat and overall wellbeing.

Who is an Ideal Owner for a Border Terrier?

An ideal owner for a Border Terrier is someone who can provide regular exercise, mental stimulation, and training. Border Terriers suit active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities and can devote time to play and interactive training. First-time dog owners can also do well with a Border Terrier, provided they are committed to proper socialisation and consistent, positive reinforcement training.

Recommended Treats & Chews for Border Terriers

  • Pate: Ideal for training due to it's firm texture meaning it can be chopped into bite sized pieces, perfect for taking out on walks.
  • Bully Braids: Tough and long lasting chews that help promote dental health due to their braided texture while keeping your dog occupied.
  • Fish Skin Thins: Low in fat but contain healthy Omegas 3 & 6. Good for dental health, fur and skin.

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly, Reggie & Bear

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