Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is a rough-coated, medium sized breed of dog that belongs to the terrier group. Bred originally as hunters of fox and other animals considered to be vermin, the ancestors of the Border Terrier include Bedlington Terriers and Dandie Dinmont Terriers.

A Peek into the History of the Border Terrier

It was in the 18th century that the Border Terrier made its first appearance, and since then, it has not changed much. This breed was used for hunting foxes in the Scottish borders. Their owners were never concerned about how the Border Terrier looked. All that mattered to them was the ability of this dog to pursue foxes into the ground. Hence, they were bred so that they had powerful jaws, with a chest that had sufficient capacity but yet was narrow enough so that they could get out of any hole that they may have entered. Their extra long legs, compared to their body, helped them to keep pace with a horse, so that they were at the place when they were required during the hunt. In the past they were called Coquetdale Terriers and Reedwater Terriers, but these they are known as just Border Terriers. In the countryside they are still working dogs, but in urban areas they are mainly kept as family companions.

The Physical Appearance of the Border Terrier

As has been mentioned above, the Border Terrier is a medium sized dog with a distinctive otter-like head. Their coat is rough and dense, with an undercoat that is close to the skin. Physically, they look the purpose they have been bred for, as working dogs. They have a keen eye, and are active and strong. Generally, the male Border Terrier’s weight is around 6-7 kg and measures around 30.5 cm at the shoulder. The female weighs around 5-6 kg and measures about 28 cm at the shoulder. The Border Terrier’s coat comes in a wide range of colors such as blue and tan, grizzle and tan, wheaten, and red.

General Temperament of the Border Terrier

This breed of dog is fun-loving and affectionate. Plus, they are courageous, adaptable, and make great companions to people, being particularly good with children. The Border Terrier has an easygoing nature although they do have an independent streak in them and like making their own decisions. They love chasing small animals like squirrels and rabbits, but also lives harmoniously with other pets in the household. They adapt equally well in urban settings as well as the country. Border Terrier puppies sometimes go through a phase where they are shy and it is especially important to make sure that they are socialized both with humans as well as other animals.

The Border Terrier’s Grooming

In its natural state, the Border Terrier’s coat grows quite long. Its shortness can only be maintained by rolling or stripping it weekly, which requires a particular technique and is fairly time consuming. Until this technique is learnt, the grooming will have to be done by a professional person. The Border Terrier puppy’s coat can be left unstripped up to the time it is ‘blown’, generally when it is 6 months old, although it will require a full strip by hand, which can take 2-3 hours. Clippers should not be used because it will spoil the coat. Also, care must be taken to check the teeth, ears and eyes regularly.

The Ailments of the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is usually a very robust dog, although there are some known health problems that are specific to the breed, such as Hip Dysplasia, Perthes Disease, progressive retinal atrophy, Canine Eptiloid Cramping Syndrome, juvenile cataracts Seizures, and certain heart defects. But these occur rarely. So, when purchasing a puppy locate a reputable Border Terrier breeder who has a healthy stock.