Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

As far as small, spunky dogs go, the Border Terrier is the exact definition. They are affectionate, good-tempered dogs who are also obedient and lively. Their coarse, wiry double coat covers a well-balanced muscular body which makes them agile, alert and active working dogs. They have short muzzles, dark lively eyes, black noses and small ears that fold into a forward “V.” Their head has been likened to that of an otter, giving it a distinct appearance. These terriers have the ideal terrier temperament and are eager to please their families. Border Terriers are particularly affectionate with children making them excellent family dogs. They are intelligent and relatively easy to train.

TEMPERAMENT

While the Border Terrier is known to be alert and lively, they are also mild-mannered and require early socialization. They are bold hunters and characterized as scruffy and hardy little terriers. Be sure that puppies are introduced to loud noises and city situations to help prevent excessive timidity in their future. They tend to bark but will not be aggressive. Border Terrier puppies are very active while Border Terrier adults mellow out. They are fantastic companions for children and, if raised with cats, will get along with them. However, these dogs should not be trusted with other people’s cats, hamsters, rats, rabbits or birds. Border terriers like to dig and should be secured with a fence but not left alone often. They need to be around people or, if you want a pair of terriers, be sure to have one male and one female.

GROOMING

Border Terriers have short, dense undercoats that are covered by wiry topcoats. These outer coats are somewhat broken and lie close to their skin but can have the tendency to wave or curl. Brush the coat weekly and take the Border Terrier to a professional groomer twice a year. These dogs only need to be washed when necessary and are good for allergy sufferers since they shed little to no hair.

HEALTH

The Border Terrier breed is susceptible to epilepsy, cataract, heart defects, shunts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). These dogs are also known to suffer from hip dysplasia and luxating patellas.

EXERCISE

Being bred to hunt, Border Terriers have large amounts of stamina and vitality. They need a good deal of exercise and the opportunity to run. Be sure to entertain this plucky little dog with daily activity.

TRAINING

Border Terriers are generally very obedient dogs that should be trained from an early age. This should help curb their tendency to chew things and become destructive.

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