Should You get a Border Terrier?
Border Terriers are known for their spunky and lively personalities. They are independent thinkers, fearless, and have a strong desire to explore. They are also very affectionate and loving towards their families, making them a great choice for those looking for a loyal and spirited companion.
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.
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 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 beloved breed. Across the pond, the Border Terrier Club of America was established in 1949, further solidifying the global admiration for these remarkable dogs.
As a small hunting dog
Border Terriers are not only skilled in their field but also make fantastic companions and pets. Despite their short legs, they have a robust and muscular build that gives them a unique and charming appearance. Their coats come in various colors, including red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, or wheaten with a dark muzzle being the preferred look.
Borders Terriers have very strong jaws and teeth.
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.
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. 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!
Border Terriers are small dogs
with an average weight of 15 to 17 pounds and a height of 12-15 inches. One of the most prominent features of the Border terrier are its penetrating brown eyes which are indicative of its intensity, intelligence and energy. They are also alert, clever and courageous.
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!
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.
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.
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 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. At this time, it’s exact cause is not known.
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.
