Border Terrier breed guide

If you’re searching for a small-sized, energetic terrier with an independent yet loving character, look no further than the boisterous border terrier!

Read our guide to learn more about the endearing border terrier breed…

Border terrier breed history

Since first appearing in the 18^th century, it’s widely believed that the border terrier breed hasn’t changed much.

Originating in the Scottish borders, the border terrier was fast enough to keep up with horses (thanks to their long legs!), yet small enough to flush foxes from their dens. Sources suggest that border terriers were also used to catch vermin on farms.

Even though they were popular with farmers and families alike for a long time, the border terrier breed wasn’t officially registered by the British Kennel Club until 1920.  

Common characteristics of the border terrier breed

Please remember that the following characteristics are considered ‘average’ for the border terrier, and since each dog is a unique individual, your border terrier’s characteristics may differ.

Average height for a border terrier

At the shoulder, most border terriers tend to be around 25-35cm in height.

Average weight for a border terrier

Many border terriers weigh 5-7kg, on average – with females often weighing slightly less than males.

Average lifespan for a border terrier

Border terriers are said to have a life expectancy of 12-15 years or more.

Typical border terrier appearance

This delightful breed is part of the ‘terrier’ group, and the border terrier is considered a small sized dog whose face makes them look a little like an otter!

Although they have a slightly broad, flat head with a shorter muzzle, border terriers have small, folded ears and wide, expressive eyes.

The border terrier tends to have a narrow body with a medium-length, high-set tail – though their legs are fairly long in comparison to their body size. Plus, border terriers usually have small paws with thick paw pads.

While border terriers have a wiry topcoat, they also have a short, dense undercoat. Additionally, border terriers can be found in a range of colours, including:

• Wheaten (mix of very pale shades, including fawn or beige).
• Red (orange-brown).
• Grizzle (dark-tipped hair) and tan (pale brown).
• Blue (pale grey) and tan.

Typical border terrier temperament

Affectionate and devoted, the border terrier can be a loyal companion to the pet parent willing to invest plenty of time into training them. Though thanks to their high levels of intelligence, border terriers are generally great to train.

Despite being a characterful small dog, the border terrier doesn’t tend to ‘yap’ continuously – though they may bark at the front door or to let you know it’s dinner time!

Due to their history as a hunting dog, the border terrier is known to chase small animals. So, you’ll need to keep up with your border terrier’s recall training and keep them on a lead around roads, in case they chase wildlife into traffic. Plus, if you have a cat, it’s important to introduce them safely to your border terrier to avoid any disagreements.

Owing to their small frame and agile nature, some border terriers can be skilled escape artists! Before bringing your border terrier home, make sure your garden is completely pet-proof and be prepared to provide them with plenty of mental stimulation.

Whether you live in a rural or an urban setting, your border terrier should thrive on an active lifestyle with a minimum of one hour of exercise every day.

Top tip: Avoid taking on two border terriers at the same time, because it’s likely they’ll bond with each other instead of with you!

Border terrier health conditions

It’s not unusual for pedigree breeds to be prone to certain health concerns, and border terriers are no exception. Here are a few health conditions commonly seen in the border terriers:

• Ear infections.
• Skin allergies.
• Shaking puppy syndrome (‘SLEM’ – Spongiform leucoencephalomyelopathy).

Remember: Keep an eye out for any health issues your border terrier may develop, and make sure your canine companion is checked by a vet if you have any concerns. If you are considering pet insurance, be sure to read our guide about insuring your border terrier.

Fun facts about border terriers

Fact 1 – Border terriers love to dig holes!

Fact 2 – The border terrier breed name changed over time, starting out as the Redesdale terrier, then the Coquetdale terrier, before becoming the border terrier.

Fact 3 – A border terrier’s coat is weatherproof, thanks to having both a wiry topcoat and short, dense undercoat.

Fact 4 – Several celebrities own border terriers, including Andy Murray and David Walliams!

Fact 5 – Thanks to being so clever, border terriers are fantastic actors and have starred in films such as Anchorman, Return to Oz, and Lassie.