Dog Breeds - Border Terrier

Border Terrier

ATTRIBUTES: Affectionate, Happy, Plucky

GROUP: Terrier Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Regular Exercise

BARKING LEVEL: When Necessary

COAT TYPE: Wiry

COAT LENGTH: Short

SHADDING: Occasional

SIZE: Small

TRAINABILITY: Easy Training

CHARACTERISTIC: Smallest Dog Breeds, Best Dogs For Apartment Dwellers, Best Dog Breeds For Kids, Best Family Dogs

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The tendency of a breed to show affection towards family members and acquaintances is a significant factor to consider. Certain breeds might display reserved behavior towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat everyone they are acquainted with as their dearest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The breed's level of tolerance and patience towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, is a vital consideration. It is important to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children with limited exposure to dogs. However, certain breeds tend to exhibit a higher level of tolerance and a natural affinity for being family-friendly, making them more suitable for households with children.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The innate level of sociability a particular breed displays towards other dogs is an important aspect to consider. While it's crucial to supervise dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to have a more amicable disposition towards other dogs both in a home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
Considering the amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds is an important factor to account for. Breeds that have a higher shedding tendency will require more frequent brushing to manage loose hair. Moreover, they may also be more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals and necessitate consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
It is crucial to consider the grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other types of coat maintenance. The frequency of these tasks can vary among breeds. Some breeds may require more frequent grooming, such as regular brushing and professional trimming, while others may have lower maintenance requirements. It is essential to assess the time, patience and budget you can allocate for grooming when considering a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to maintain their overall health.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Considering the drooling tendency of a breed is important, especially for individuals who prefer cleanliness. Some breeds have a tendency to drool more than others, which can result in ropes of slobber on your arm or wet spots on your clothes. If you value a neat environment and want to avoid excessive drooling, it may be wise to choose a breed that is known for minimal drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of a breed's welcoming nature towards strangers is an important factor to consider. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers regardless of the location or situation. On the other hand, some breeds tend to be friendly and enthusiastic when meeting new people, regardless of the circumstances. Understanding a breed's inclination towards strangers can help in selecting a dog that aligns with your preferences and expectations.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
Considering a breed's enthusiasm for play, even beyond puppyhood is valuable for those seeking an active and playful companion. Some breeds maintain their love for play well into their adult years showing a continued interest in games like tug-of-war or fetch. These breeds typically have a high energy level and enjoy engaging in interactive activities. Conversely, there are breeds that become more relaxed and content with simply spending quality time with their owners preferring to relax on the couch rather than actively participating in play activities. Understanding a breed's playfulness can help you find a dog that aligns with your own activity level and desire for play.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Considering a breed's tendency to alert you when strangers are around is an important aspect to consider for those seeking a vigilant and protective companion. Certain breeds are more likely to react to potential threats, such as the presence of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are typically alert and have a strong instinct to alert their owners to potential intruders. However, it's worth noting that with proper socialization and acceptance by their family, these breeds can also warm up to strangers who enter the house.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
Discover the remarkable adaptability of different breeds in handling various changes, such as alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather fluctuations, daily routines, and other day-to-day variations.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Discover how effortlessly you can train your beloved canine companion paired with their unquenchable thirst for acquiring new knowledge. Certain breeds exhibit an innate desire to please their owners dedicating themselves to the pursuit of making their humans proud. Conversely, there are those breeds that gravitate towards indulging their own desires, embracing the freedom to act spontaneously and roam wherever their hearts desire.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements may vary among different breeds. High-energy breeds display remarkable enthusiasm and are always eager for their next thrilling escapade. They eagerly engage in activities such as running, jumping, and playing, keeping themselves occupied throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to possess a more laid-back nature, akin to couch potatoes. They find contentment in leisurely lounging around and enjoying peaceful snoozes.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization in a breed can vary significantly. Certain breeds are prone to barking or howling frequently reacting to any passer-by or even birds peering through the window. Conversely, other breeds reserve their barks for specific situations or stimuli. It should be noted that even barkless breeds may still exhibit vocal tendencies utilizing alternative sounds to communicate and express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its happiness and overall well-being can vary. Purpose-bred dogs often possess specific job-related traits such as decision-making abilities, problem-solving skills, or a need for concentration. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may engage in self-directed activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these projects may not align with the preferences of their human companions. To prevent unwanted behaviors, it is essential to provide them with appropriate and engaging mental stimulation.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The tendency of a breed to show affection towards family members and acquaintances is a significant factor to consider. Certain breeds might display reserved behavior towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat everyone they are acquainted with as their dearest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The breed's level of tolerance and patience towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, is a vital consideration. It is important to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children with limited exposure to dogs. However, certain breeds tend to exhibit a higher level of tolerance and a natural affinity for being family-friendly, making them more suitable for households with children.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The innate level of sociability a particular breed displays towards other dogs is an important aspect to consider. While it's crucial to supervise dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to have a more amicable disposition towards other dogs both in a home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

Considering the amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds is an important factor to account for. Breeds that have a higher shedding tendency will require more frequent brushing to manage loose hair. Moreover, they may also be more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals and necessitate consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

It is crucial to consider the grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other types of coat maintenance. The frequency of these tasks can vary among breeds. Some breeds may require more frequent grooming, such as regular brushing and professional trimming, while others may have lower maintenance requirements. It is essential to assess the time, patience and budget you can allocate for grooming when considering a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to maintain their overall health.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Considering the drooling tendency of a breed is important, especially for individuals who prefer cleanliness. Some breeds have a tendency to drool more than others, which can result in ropes of slobber on your arm or wet spots on your clothes. If you value a neat environment and want to avoid excessive drooling, it may be wise to choose a breed that is known for minimal drooling.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wiry

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of a breed's welcoming nature towards strangers is an important factor to consider. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers regardless of the location or situation. On the other hand, some breeds tend to be friendly and enthusiastic when meeting new people, regardless of the circumstances. Understanding a breed's inclination towards strangers can help in selecting a dog that aligns with your preferences and expectations.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

Considering a breed's enthusiasm for play, even beyond puppyhood is valuable for those seeking an active and playful companion. Some breeds maintain their love for play well into their adult years showing a continued interest in games like tug-of-war or fetch. These breeds typically have a high energy level and enjoy engaging in interactive activities. Conversely, there are breeds that become more relaxed and content with simply spending quality time with their owners preferring to relax on the couch rather than actively participating in play activities. Understanding a breed's playfulness can help you find a dog that aligns with your own activity level and desire for play.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Considering a breed's tendency to alert you when strangers are around is an important aspect to consider for those seeking a vigilant and protective companion. Certain breeds are more likely to react to potential threats, such as the presence of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are typically alert and have a strong instinct to alert their owners to potential intruders. However, it's worth noting that with proper socialization and acceptance by their family, these breeds can also warm up to strangers who enter the house.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

Discover the remarkable adaptability of different breeds in handling various changes, such as alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather fluctuations, daily routines, and other day-to-day variations.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Discover how effortlessly you can train your beloved canine companion paired with their unquenchable thirst for acquiring new knowledge. Certain breeds exhibit an innate desire to please their owners dedicating themselves to the pursuit of making their humans proud. Conversely, there are those breeds that gravitate towards indulging their own desires, embracing the freedom to act spontaneously and roam wherever their hearts desire.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements may vary among different breeds. High-energy breeds display remarkable enthusiasm and are always eager for their next thrilling escapade. They eagerly engage in activities such as running, jumping, and playing, keeping themselves occupied throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to possess a more laid-back nature, akin to couch potatoes. They find contentment in leisurely lounging around and enjoying peaceful snoozes.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

When Necessary

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its happiness and overall well-being can vary. Purpose-bred dogs often possess specific job-related traits such as decision-making abilities, problem-solving skills, or a need for concentration. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may engage in self-directed activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these projects may not align with the preferences of their human companions. To prevent unwanted behaviors, it is essential to provide them with appropriate and engaging mental stimulation.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Blue & Tan	044
Grizzle & Tan	110
Red	140
Wheaten	224
Grizzle	109
Red Grizzle	154
Black Grizzle	248
Blue Grizzle	249
Red Wheaten	156
Red Grizzle & Tan	259
Black & Tan	018
Black & Red	014

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Points	019

About The Breed

Enthusiasts of the lively and agile Border terrier deeply appreciate the breed's reputation as a resilient and straightforward working terrier. These spirited, cheerful, and affectionate dogs are widely popular as pets both in urban and rural areas. Their wiry coat requires minimal maintenance making it easy to care for. Border Terriers typically stand between 11 and 16 inches tall at the shoulder and they possess a distinctive head shape often referred to as an "otter head" by admirers. Another notable feature is their longer legs compared to other small terriers. The wire coat can sport various color combinations, including grizzle and tan, blue and tan, wheaten, or red.

While Borders are renowned for their tenacity and resilience while working, they display good-natured, affectionate, and trainable qualities at home. They thoroughly enjoy outdoor explorations and make excellent playmates for children. While originally bred for rural settings, Border Terriers can adapt well to city life as long as they receive sufficient exercise. Borders generally get along well with other dogs, but their hunting instincts may be triggered when encountering cats or squirrels along their path. With a traditional 9-5 workday as they require frequent human interaction and companionship.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A BORDER TERRIER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Border Terrier: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	In general, the Border terrier is considered a healthy breed. Responsible breeders prioritize the screening of their breeding stock to identify and mitigate potential health conditions. This includes conducting tests for ailments like hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, juvenile cataracts, seizures, heart issues, and allergies. While the breed is generally robust, it's worth noting that some Border Terriers may have lower tolerance for hot weather. It is advisable to limit outdoor exercise when temperatures rise above 85 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure their well-being and comfort. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation Spongiform Leukoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM) - DNA Test Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The Border Terrier is characterized by a double coat, consisting of a hard, wiry outer coat and a soft, fluffy undercoat. As with most double-coated breeds, the Border terrier undergoes seasonal shedding. Generally, regular brushing once every week or two is sufficient to maintain the coat's condition. However, during shedding seasons, owners should expect to spend around 30 minutes per day to remove the dead hair. This can be done by hand or by utilizing a rake or stripping tool. The outer coat of the Border Terrier is effective in repelling dirt, which means that bathing should be done sparingly to avoid compromising its natural dirt-repelling abilities. In most cases, a towel and a brush are sufficient to clean up a dirty Border terrier. As with all breeds, regular nail trimming is necessary for the Border Terrier's proper grooming and overall well-being.

Exercise

	Border Terriers are known for their high energy levels and require ample daily exercise. Engaging them in a brisk half-hour walk or play session, involving activities like fetching a ball or flying disc, is generally sufficient to keep them healthy and content. However, due to their instinctual desire to chase small animals, it is crucial to always walk a Border terrier on a leash. Play sessions should be held within a securely fenced yard or other enclosed area. Given their inherent digging inclination, it is ideal for backyard fencing to extend at least 18 inches underground to prevent escape attempts. Border Terriers particularly enjoy participating in various activities such as tracking, lure coursing, agility, and earth dog trials. They also excel in canine sports like flyball, where their agility and enthusiasm shine.

Training

	Early socialization and enrolling Border Terriers in puppy training classes are highly recommended. According to the breeds parent club, it is essential to understand that Border Terriers possess a strong independent streak, which can be both charming and challenging. While they are capable of following commands, they tend to think for themselves and may wander off to pursue their own interests after a certain period of time, even if instructed to stay. However, when confronted, they often exhibit remorse and genuinely strive to please. It is crucial to avoid harsh punishment as it can break their spirited nature and damage their spirit. It's important to note that Border Terriers are not known for unwavering obedience. If your desire is to have a dog that always unquestionably follows commands, a Border terrier may not be the best choice for you. Given their strong prey drive, it is advisable to keep Border Terriers on a leash and only allow them off-leash in securely fenced areas to prevent them from chasing after potential targets.

Nutrition

	The Border terrier typically thrives on a high-quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or home-prepared under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. The chosen diet should be suitable for the dog's specific age category, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. It's important to monitor calorie consumption and weight levels, as some Border Terriers are prone to weight gain. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential, as obesity can have adverse effects on their overall health. While treats can be beneficial for training purposes, it's crucial to avoid overfeeding, as excessive treat consumption can lead to obesity. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with human foods that are safe for dogs and those that should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your dog's weight or dietary needs consulting with a veterinarian is advisable. Additionally, ensuring access to clean, fresh water at all times is essential for the Border terrier’s well-being.

Historiography

In the rural areas near the Scottish-English border, farmers and shepherds developed a breed of terriers to assist them in dealing with a cunning predator known as the hill fox. These terriers needed to be agile and quick to pursue and eliminate the fox. They had to possess long enough legs to keep up with foxhounds and hunters on horseback, while still being small enough to dig into the fox's den and force it out.

The ancestors of today's Border terrier were energetic, strong and had exceptional endurance. Their wiry coat provided protection from the region's rainfall, mist and rugged terrain. Historically, the Border terrier was renowned for its impressive working abilities. They were described as capable of scaling any wall and navigating through wire entanglements. If a fox sought refuge underground, the Border terrier would reliably flush it out or remain in the burrow overnight until the situation was resolved.

Early names for the breed included Reedwater Terrier, Ullswater Terrier, and Coquet dale Terrier, derived from the locations in northern England where these hardy dogs were commonly found. However, it was in Northumberland, the northernmost county of England, where the Border terrier gained its enduring reputation as a skilled fox hunter that worked harmoniously with hounds. Even today, the Border terrier is recognized for its amicable nature towards other canines.

Fox hunting in the borderlands differed distinctly from the grand foxhunts held on opulent country estates, where well-dressed equestrians in red coats and tall hats rode alongside large packs of foxhounds purely for sport. Borderland foxhunts were more practical and catered to working-class individuals, aiming to protect shepherds' flocks from predators. Consequently, the Border terrier continues to be a popular choice among ordinary people in the United Kingdom seeking an spirited and low-maintenance companion.

The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the Border terrier in 1920, with the American Kennel Club (AKC) following suit a decade later in the United States.