Border Terrier Breed Information
Breed Standard
Temperament: Affectionate, Happy, Plucky
Coat: Wiry and easy to manage
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The American Kennel Club describes the Border Terrier as:An active terrier of medium bone, strongly put together, suggesting endurance and agility. The characteristic “otter” head with its keen eye, combined with a body poise which is “at the alert,” gives a look of fearless and implacable determination characteristic of the breed. Since the Border Terrier is a working terrier of a size to go to ground and able, within reason, to follow a horse, his conformation should be such that he be ideally built to do his job. For this work he must be alert, active and agile, and capable of squeezing through narrow apertures and rapidly traversing any kind of terrain.
Border Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, but they retain the capacity for independent thinking and initiative.
The Border Terrier breed was developed by the farmers and shepherds, who used terriers to help contain the local fox population. They originate from the rough, and at times bleak, hill country between England and Scotland sometimes known as 'The Border Country'.
Bred to keep up with horses and chase out foxes when they go to ground. Border Terriers were working dogs, built for endurance and a certain amount of speed.
Borders are a generally hardy breed, although there are health risks as with any animal.
Borders do well in task-oriented activities and have a surprising ability to jump high and run fast. They take training for tasks very well, and are capable of learning tricks quickly and competently.
Borders can adapt to different environments and situations, and are able to deal with temporary change well. If properly exercised they can be suitable for apartment living.
Their love of people and even temperament make them fine therapy dogs, especially for children and the elderly.
Borders love to sit and watch what is going on. Walks with Borders will often involve them sitting and lying in the grass to observe the environment around them.
They will get along well with cats that they have been raised with, but may chase other cats and small animals such as mice, birds, rabbits, squirrels, rats, and guinea pigs.
Borders are very independent and loyal. Some borders are known to be territorial and will protect their homes. They have a strong sense of smell.
Characteristics
Affection Level
Medium
Friendliness
High
Playfulness
High
Kid & Pet Friendliness
Medium
Amount of Shedding
Medium
Trainability
Medium
Exercise Needs
Medium
Energy Level
Medium
Intelligence
High