Spotlight – The Border Terrier

Hi everyone, and thanks for joining me on this episode of Val Talk’s Pets. I’ve got a bit of a trend going here. In this episode, I am going to spotlight The Border Terrier.

On my last episode, I talked about the Cairn Terrier, and I have also spotlighted the Westie. Keeping with our rugged and tough Scottish small dogs, I’m exploring the Border Terrier. Also, a rugged little guy.

A Personal Connection

I have a friend who looks after pets as a business, and he had a favourite client who was a Border Terrier. Unfortunately, this little dog has since passed on, but he was affectionately referred to often as a “Border terror”! He wasn’t a terror at all. Borders are well known for being friendly and affectionate.

History and Recognition

Throughout history, Border Terriers have been valued for their hunting skills and ability to work tirelessly (Dog Academic). Dog Academic points out that Borders are ideal for either an urban or rural setting. This is due to their size and adaptability, as well as being loyal and energetic.

The Kennel Club of the U.K. first recognized Border Terriers in 1920 and the American Kennel Club in 1930. Surprisingly, it wasn’t until 2006 that the Canadian Kennel Club recognized Border Terriers officially.

Origins and Traditional Role

According to Wikipedia, the Border Terrier is rough-coated like the Cairn and “originates from the area of the Anglo-Scottish border. It shares ancestry with the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Bedlington Terrier, both originating from the same area. The dogs were traditionally used in fox hunting and worked with the Border Hunt in Northumberland.”

“With livestock being subjected to the attacks of hill foxes, farmers and shepherds needed a game terrier that could follow a horse yet be small enough to go to ground after the fox” (CKC). This area of Northumberland was more specifically the Northumberland Valley of Coquetdale, and at one time the breed was known as the Coquetdale Terrier.

Appearance and Coat

Border Terriers are cute as well, with their little faces and ears that are bent forward to frame their heads. They are often said to have the appearance of an otter. Borders are about the same size as a Cairn or Westie.

According to Dog Academic, Borders are about 10–11 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 11.5 to 15.5 pounds. Their coat is wiry and dense like a Cairn and will require hand stripping rather than clipping. Hand stripping removes dead outer hairs, allowing a new coat to grow in.

Coat colours include red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, and wheaten. Bathing should be occasional so as not to disrupt the coat’s natural water resistance, though brushing should be regular. Because of their folded ears, Borders are prone to ear infections, so ear hygiene is very important.

Temperament and Training

Despite being affectionate and friendly, there are some challenges with a Border Terrier’s temperament. According to The Spruce Pets, Border Terriers can be barky and stubborn. They have a strong prey drive, so if you wish to have another pet like a cat, early socialization is key. They also like to chase squirrels and dig!

Like many terrier breeds, Borders can be a bit stubborn, so training early is essential. They are intelligent and eager to please, responding well to positive training. Harsh methods can cause them to shut down. The Spruce Pets also recommends exposing your Border to a variety of people, dogs, and environments to avoid shyness or aggression.

Health Concerns

According to The Spruce Pets, Borders may be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, congenital heart disease, progressive retinal atrophy, juvenile cataracts, seizures, and allergies.

Dogster adds conditions such as Cushing’s disease (see my episode on Cushing’s for more info) and Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome, a genetic condition that causes random cramps with no known cause. This highlights the importance of seeking a registered, reputable breeder who is aware of and proactively manages these health concerns.

Lifestyle and Exercise Needs

Border Terriers are very active dogs who require daily exercise. Without stimulation, they can become destructive, and they do not do well when left alone for long periods.

Dogster sums it up nicely: “Border Terriers are fun, playful, affectionate and spunky little dogs with big personalities and a lot to offer their families. They yearn to be part of a family unit and do not do well in households that prefer a quiet, background pet. They want to be involved in everything their owners are doing, especially if it involves being physically active outside.”

Borders are intelligent but can be tough to train, particularly for inexperienced owners. Despite their size, they are fearless and can get into trouble. They are also expert diggers and escape artists. Training and socialization are non-negotiables to raise a well-mannered Border Terrier.

Final Thoughts

That really sums things up, I think. If you are not an active person or have an active, outdoorsy family, a Border Terrier probably isn’t the best choice for you.

If you don’t want your yard dug up, or you don’t want to negotiate with a little otter face challenging you to “make me,” a Border may not be right.

But if you want a small dog with the personality of a big one, who can handle harsh weather, loves hiking and running, wants to be a part of everything, and is super smart, the Border Terrier could be a perfect fit.

If a Border Terrier interests you, make sure you find a reputable, registered breeder. Have an honest conversation about your lifestyle, and do lots of research—because as I always say, knowing is caring.

Tagged as: terrier care,  dog grooming,  dog health,  dog training,  family pets,  small dogs,  Border Terrier,  dog breeds.