Border Terrier

Originating along the England–Scotland border as a fox and vermin hunter, the Border Terrier was bred to run with hounds and go to ground—valued for toughness and versatility.

Athletic and well-balanced with hallmark breed features.

• Weight: 11.5–15.5 lb (5–7 kg)
• Height: 10–11 in (25–28 cm)
• Coat type: Harsh, wiry outer coat with dense undercoat
• Coat colors: Red, grizzle & tan, blue & tan, wheaten
• Distinctive traits: Otter head; moderate bone; flexible, narrow body

Coat thrives with hand-stripping to preserve harsh texture.

• Brushing: Weekly; tidy debris from coat after outings.
• Hand-stripping: Every few months or as needed.
• Bathing: As needed; avoid overbathing to keep texture.
• Nails/Teeth: Routine care.

Moderate energy with terrier tenacity.

• Daily duration: 45–60 minutes.
• Activities: Walks, hiking, earthdog, scent games.
• Off-leash: Use secure areas due to prey drive.

Smart and eager, yet independent—keep it upbeat.

• Approach: Reward-based; short sessions.
• Focus areas: Recall, impulse control, calm settle.

Small, athletic body—avoid overfeeding.

• Food type: Quality small-breed diet.
• Quantity: ~1–1.5 cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to condition.

Look for performance-savvy breeders; consider terrier rescues.

• Breeders: Club referrals; ask about patellas/hips.
• Rescue: Terrier-specific rescues.

Generally healthy; work with breeders who screen for inherited issues.

• Orthopedic: Patellas; occasional hip checks.
• Dental: Small-breed tartar risk.
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years.

Do Border Terriers shed?
Low to Moderate—hand-stripping reduces shedding.

Apartment-friendly?
Yes—daily exercise and enrichment required.

Good with kids?
Yes, with supervision and outlets for terrier energy.

Hard to groom?
Hand-stripping preserves coat; many owners learn to DIY.

Prey drive?
High—use secure areas off-leash.