The Border Terrier was originally bred for fox-hunting and has the spirit of a worker bee. This strong, speedy little dog will jump at any chance to dig a hole and sports a loose, wiry and shaggy coat designed to give attackers the slip. You can spot a Border Terrier by its unique ‘otter’ head and lively, positive personality. It makes a fine family pet – as long as your garden fences are suitably sturdy.

Border Terrier Facts

Breed Group: Terrier

Size: Small

Sheds?: Yes

Coat length: Short

Exercise: 1 hour per day

Grooming required?: More than once a week

History

The Border Terrier lives up to its namesake. It was bred on the border between England and Scotland as a working dog to help farmers track down and eliminate troublesome foxes. Despite only being recognised as a UK breed standard in 1920, it’s one of the oldest types of terriers out there.

Health

You can expect your Border Terrier to live between 12 and 15 or more years.

This breed suffers from relatively few health problems compared to other pedigrees. Problems can include hip, knee and heart issues, and a little number called ‘Spike’s Disease’, also known as Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome.

Border Terrier Characteristics

The dutiful digger

Old habits die hard. The Border Terrier enjoys digging and rootling around in the undergrowth, and your garden fences will need monitoring for potential escape routes! The Border Terrier loves being around families and is a highly active little creature who thrives on plenty of walks. Somewhat nervy while young, this breed will mellow out with age.

Grooming

Border Terriers have a high-maintenance double coat that requires regular brushing and quarterly sessions with a professional to remove the dead hair and get your pet looking its best.

Training

Border Terriers are obedient little dogs and not too hard to train, but you’ll need to be careful around other pets – especially rodents, which are best avoided full stop – and socialise them well.

Housebreaking

Border Terriers can be difficult to housebreak.

Where to find Border Terriers

Border Terrier Groups

Looking for other Border Terrier owners to discuss digging antics with? Find a Border Terrier breed group below.

The Border Terrier Club
Southern Border Terrier CLub
The Northern Border Terrier Club
The Midland Border Terrier Club
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club
East Anglia Border Terrier Club
The Scottish Terrier Border Terrier Club>/a>

Adopt a Border Terrier

Want to adopt a Border Terrier in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.

Border Terrier Welfare
Terrier SOS

Breeders

Sold on the Border Terrier’s inquisitive attitude towards life (and gardens)? Find an approved Border Terrier breeder below.

Kennel Club Assured Breeders

Do you own a Border Terrier?

If you own a Border Terrier, let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.