Quick Stats for the Border Terrier Breed
- Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 13 – 16 inches (33 – 41 cm) ; bitches: 11 – 14 inches (28 – 36 cm)
- Weight: dogs: 13 – 16 pounds (6 – 7 kg) ; bitches: 11 – 14 pounds (5 – 6 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
- AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1930
- Shedding: sheds little to no hair
- Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately inactive indoors; small yard okay
Personality of the Border Terrier Breed
The Border Terrier is one of the friendliest members of the Terrier Group. They are intelligent, energetic, and usually easy to train. They make great family pets and would do best with a family that loves the outdoors and live a fairly active lifestyle.
They are great with children and just love to play. Border Terriers are very affectionate dogs which makes them a great companion.
History of the Border Terrier Breed
This dog breed is believed to have originated from an area in the Cheviot Hills that bordered England and Scotland. Their history can be traced back as far as the 1700s. They were mainly used to chase fox and other animals. In the 1800s they also participated in the gentry’s elegant fox hunts, where their job was to dispatch the fox.
They were originally called the Coquetdale Terrier, but in 1870 their name was officially changed to the Border Terrier. In the late 1870s, the breed entered the show ring for the first time.
They are closely related to the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed.
The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1930.
The Border Terrier Breed Care and Grooming
These dogs have very high energy levels, but they can still do okay with a couple of brisk walks daily. If possible, they should be allowed to play in a safe enclosed area as well. Border Terriers also love to explore, so a long hike along a nature trail would be something they would just love to do.
Grooming requirements include a weekly brushing to remove any dead hairs from the harsh wiry coat. A quarterly stripping is also recommended. This helps the coat to maintain a neat outline. You may want to have your Border Terrier professionally groomed twice per year as well.
The breed sheds little to no hair and is considered a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Health Problems of the Border Terrier Breed
The average life expectancy of the Border Terrier breed is about twelve to fifteen years.
There are no major health concerns for this breed.
Minor health issues include:
- patellar luxation
These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:
- heart defects
- CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
- CECS (Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome)
Veterinarians recommend having the Border Terrier breed tested specifically for hip and heart problems.
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
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