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First Impressions
This is a true working terrier with a compact body and an Otter like head..
The History Of The Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is also known as a Coquetdale Terrier and a Reedwater Terrier. They originated in England during the 1800's.
The Border Terrier was bred by farmers in the border country hills between Scotland and England. It was not named after the district but from a foxhound pack known as the Border Hunt. Similar terriers have also been used by hunts to flush foxes out that have gone to ground.
Working ability was always preferable to appearance and a Border Terrier still has the courage and aggression necessary to pursue a fox, badger or otter.
Description Of The Border Terrier
The drop ears are not altered neither is the tail.
Dogs average 13 - 16 inches high at the shoulder and weigh between 13 and 16 pounds. Bitches are 11 - 14 inches tall and 12 - 15 pounds in weight.
The Border Terrier is small brave terrier with a rough, wiry double coat. They have dark alert eyes. The muzzle is short and they have a black nose and small ears folded "V" shaped ears.
The jaw should meet in a scissors bite. The tail is fairly short, tapering from a thicker base to the tip and is carried level with the back unless the dog is excited. Limbs are not heavily boned and the Border Terrier comes colored red, blue / tan, tan, and grizzle / tan. The only white allowed is small patches on the chest.
Coat & Grooming
The weather proof wiry coat requires weekly brushings and a professional grooming twice a year. A completely natural look is the objective. The Border Terrier sheds very little, making it an ideal pet for allergy sufferers. Bathe only when necessary.
Temperament and Border Terrier Training
The Border Terrier is alert, active and even tempered they love being around children and only want to please. They will bark, but are not aggressive. Puppies are lively and active, but will calm as they mature. Border Terriers love to dig and must be securely fenced. A lot of owners prefer free standing runs and reinforcements along the bottom of fences.
They are quite easy train and need to be socialized well and have puppies get accustomed to loud noises and crowded streets while they are still young to prevent overt timidity. As with all dogs, Border Terrier training should be started as a puppy. To prevent behavioral problems later in life, training should follow a recognized training regime.
Either enroll in a certified local dog training school or read this.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a Border Terrier is around 15+ years.
The Border Terrier is fairly insensitive to pain and signs of illness can be hidden. Because of this owners should watch this breed's health carefully.
Reported health problems include: Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome - CECS known as "Spike's Disease". This is a recently recognized canine health problem and hereditary in Border Terriers. Sometimes confused with canine epilepsy. It may also be a metabolic, neurological or muscle disorder.. Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
The Border Terrier will be fine in an apartment as long as it is given plenty of exercise. They are moderately inactive indoors and a small yard will suit their needs fine.
For More Information on the Border Terrier
To get more information, check out the Border Terrier web site:
www.clubs.akc.org/btcoa.
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.clubs.akc.org/btcoa/rescuefr.htm
Summary
Still retaining their looks, vitality and hunting instincts from it’s Scottish heritage. Needs plenty of exercise and a great child’s companion.
:: Border Terrier Training ::
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