Should You get a Border Terrier?
A Border Terrier can be a fantastic companion — but only for the right type of household. These dogs are cheerful, deeply affectionate, and full of personality, yet they retain the classic terrier independence that can surprise first-time owners. Borders are curious, persistent, and always ready to investigate something new, which means training requires patience and consistency rather than force. They generally integrate well into family life, but they are not passive lap dogs and do best with regular activity and mental stimulation. If you appreciate a small dog with confidence, energy, and a bit of mischievous determination, the Border Terrier can be incredibly rewarding.
Border Terrier Quick Facts
Temperament: Friendly, curious, affectionate, spirited
Breed Type: Small working terrier
Height: 11–16 inches
Weight: 11.5–15.5 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Shedding: Low (hand-stripped coat)
Exercise Needs: Moderate
Good for Families: Yes — typically very adaptable
Best for Owners: Active, consistent, enrichment-minded
Origin: United Kingdom
Origin of the Border Terrier
Border terriers can trace their origins back to the Cheviot Hills, located on the border between England and Scotland. These tenacious little dogs were specifically bred for hunting purposes, demonstrating their remarkable skills in pursuing various small game including foxes, rabbits, badgers, otters, and more. Their compact size and energetic nature make them excellent at navigating rugged terrains and flushing out prey from their hiding places.
Border Terrier History
The Border Terrier breed has a history that dates back to the early 1800s in Northumberland, England. In those days, these adorable little dogs with long hair were known as “Prick ears” or “Yarrow Tacks.” It wasn’t until the 1920s that the Border Terrier was officially recognized as a unique breed.
Border Terriers are Winning Dogs!
Border terriers have proven themselves to be top contenders in conformation shows, taking home the winning titles at prestigious events such as Crufts and the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Their remarkable success is a testament to their exceptional breed standards and impeccable qualities. The UK Border Terrier Club, founded in 1920, stands as the oldest of all the Breed Clubs in the UK, dedicated to preserving and promoting the excellence of this great breed. Across the pond, the Border Terrier Club of America was established in 1949, further solidifying the global admiration for these remarkable dogs.
Are Border Terrier’s Good Pets?
As a small hunting dog, Border Terriers are not only skilled in their field but also make fantastic companions and pets. Some of what you can expect:
Personality: The Ultimate Sidekick
Fearless but Friendly – Unlike some terriers, Borders are less prone to scrappiness and more eager to please.
Adaptable – Thrives in city apartments (with enough exercise) or country homes (with space to explore).
Comedians at Heart – Known for their quirky antics, like “talking back” or burrowing under blankets.
Ideal for Active Owners
Exercise Needs: 45–60 mins/day (walks + playtime).
Mental Stimulation: Loves puzzle toys, agility, or earthdog trials.
Social Butterflies: Generally good with kids, dogs, and even cats (if raised together).
Borders Terriers Like to Chew.
Borders Terriers have very strong jaws and teeth that were specifically bred for hunting foxes and other small animals. Their natural instinct to chew can make it challenging to find toys that are safe from destruction. Your rug and chair legs might be prime targets for a “chew”! It’s important to provide them with appropriate chew toys and regularly check their environment for potential hazards. Training and providing mental stimulation can also help redirect their chewing behavior.
Border Terriers Closest Relatives
In DNA Research on Modern Dog Breed development, the Border Terrier has been shown to share the most common DNA with an ancestor of the following dog breeds:
1. Jack Russell Terrier
2. Bedlington Terrier
Border Terriers are Escape Artists.
A Border Terrier chasing prey will not be stopped. Their prey drive is legendary, and their Houdini-like escape skills mean they’ll go to extreme lengths to pursue a squirrel, rabbit, or even a blowing leaf. Over or under obstacles, they are laser focused. No fence will stop them. They will dig-and your beautiful garden may be ruined. It is very important not to leave them unsupervised or off leash as many have chased small animals and have been hit by cars.
Growing Up Border Terrier!
Have pictures of your dog as a puppy and an adult? We give-away free random videos of dogs growing up every month. You can enter pictures here!
How Big is a Border Terrier?
Size:
Weight: 11.5–15.5 lbs (females) / 13–17.5 lbs (males) (slightly lighter in the UK breed standard).
Height: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) at the shoulder—compact but muscular, built for agility and endurance.
Eyes:
Dark, almond-shaped, and keen—their “penetrating” gaze reflects their intelligence and intensity.
Often described as “full of fire and mischief”, matching their bold personality.
Coat Colors:
Accepted Colors:
Red (from golden to deep fox-red)
Grizzle & Tan (black/dark hairs mixed with lighter ones + tan markings)
Blue & Tan (slate-gray with tan legs/eyebrows)
Wheaten (pale yellow-gold, often with a darker muzzle)
Preferred Markings: A dark muzzle (“otter-like”) is prized in show dogs, enhancing their expressive face.
Other Key Features:
Otter-shaped head with a short, strong muzzle.
V-shaped ears that fold forward (adding to their alert look).
Wiry, double coat that’s weatherproof (requires hand-stripping for maintenance).
FCI Breed Standard
A tired border terrier is a good border terrier.
Make sure you take your dog for a walk or play with it every day. If you do not, your dog may become hyper and very active/destructive indoors. There is a common misconception that smaller dogs do not need as much exercise as larger ones. In fact, Border terriers were bred to work very hard, so many have the same energy level as their larger counterparts!
How Fast Can a Border Terrier Run?
The AKC conducts 100 yard dog races called the Fast CAT. In these races, the average running speed of the Border Terrier was 21.1 mph. The fastest recorded speed was by a Border Terrier named Loch Cu Artful Dodger at 27.24 mph. That is fast for a small dog!
Border Terrier Temperament
In the C-BARQ dog temperament study by the University of Pennsylvania, the Border terrier ranked 9 out of 124 dog breeds in prey drive which means their likelihood of chasing after other small animals is VERY high.
Are Border Terriers Easy to Train?
The C-BARQ study also found that Border terriers are highly trainable, with a score of 82%. They ranked 24 out of 124 dog breeds for easiness to train. Border Terriers are anxious to please and can be sensitive to harsh training. They respond well consistent, positive training and a treat, touch or encouraging response goes a long way.
Border Terrier Intelligence
In studies on canine intelligence the Border terrier ranked 30th of 130 different dog breeds. Basically this means they tend to learn new commands between 15-25 repetitions. In contrast, the least intelligent breeds will require 80-100 repetitions to learn the same commands!
Border Terrier Health and Lifespan
Border terriers are generally a very healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12.7 years, but they are prone to a few, rare genetic conditions. One of these health conditions is Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome or Spike’s disease. This ailment causes painful muscle cramping that can last up to 30 minutes. There is no cure, but diet changes (low-protein, gluten-free) and stress reduction may help.
Check Your Border Terrier Facts and Take a Fun BT Quiz!
Border Terrier Humor!
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Quick Facts About Border Terriers
Facts About Border Terriers-Final Thoughts
Border Terriers are unique dogs that possess a combination of traits that set them apart from other terrier breeds. With their high prey drive and powerful instincts, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to lead healthy and active lives. Their double coat, consisting of a wiry topcoat and dense undercoat, requires weekly brushing to keep it healthy and free from matting. Schooling these pups requires positive reinforcement and obedience training to harness their strong prey drive in a controlled manner. Despite their energetic nature, Border Terriers are also known for being affectionate companions and can form strong bonds with their owners. Whether participating in agility competitions or simply enjoying daily walks, Border Terriers thrive when given the opportunity to channel their energy into activities that challenge them both physically and mentally. If you’re considering adding a Border Terrier to your family, be sure to find a reputable breeder who understands the unique needs of this kind of dog and is committed to producing healthy and well-socialized puppies.
