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Border Terrier

Border Terrier

Is the Border Terrier Right for You? Traits, Training & Care Tips

The Border Terrier is a plucky, affectionate working terrier with a harsh, weather-resistant coat. Compact and game, yet cuddly at home—great for active families.

Breed Group
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Coat Type
Double Coat
Coat Texture
Wiry
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
Low
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Purebred

Breed History of the 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.

Border Terrier Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

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

How to Groom a Border Terrier: Coat Care & Maintenance

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.

Border Terrier Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

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.

Training a Border Terrier: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Smart and eager, yet independent—keep it upbeat.

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

Border Terrier Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Small, athletic body—avoid overfeeding.

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

Border Terrier Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

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.

Where to Adopt or Find Border Terrier Puppies in Canada

Look for performance-savvy breeders; consider terrier rescues.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About the Border Terrier

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.

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Other Terrier Dogs

Bull Terrier
Boston Terrier
Border Terrier
Biewer Terrier
Black Russian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Australian Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Hairless Terrier
Kerry Blue Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier

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