Border Terrier

Breed History

Border Terriers were bred in the north in the hills shared by England and Scotland, hence the word ‘border’ in their name. Farmers would keep them as company and general farm dogs; they excelled at hunting vermin in particular. Historically, they have also been used in fox hunts.

General Appearance

The Border Terrier has a wiry top coat and short haired undercoat with thick skin that can in handy whilst hunting foxes. They stand between 28cm and 40cm tall and can weigh up to 7kg. You’ll find they come in a variety of coats including red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan and wheaten.

Temperament 

A terrier by nature as well as by name, the Border Terrier is tenacious, spirited and confident. They need plenty of attention and have seemingly endless energy. Owners will get the most out of them by providing them with a variety of exercise and mentally stimulating activities. These smart dogs are especially good at problem solving.

Health Considerations

The Border Terrier can be prone to certain health issues including epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease causes a progressive lameness and muscle wastage of the hips. This orthopaedic disease can usually be diagnosed with X-rays. Owners can offer Puppy Supplements, from 12 weeks in an attempt to maintain healthy joints.

Trainability

Border Terriers are generally well mannered and easily trained. They’re an intelligent breed and tend to learn quite quickly.

Grooming

As the Border Terrier has two coats, they need to be ‘stripped’, usually every 4-6 months. In between this, brushing your Terrier daily or 3 to 4 times a week is advised.

Exercise

Border Terriers  need at least 1 hours exercise each day which can be split into 2 walks and some off-lead running in a secure space. Borders are very playful and intelligent dogs so need a lot of play time and mental stimulation on top. 

Feeding Considerations

Your Border will need a complete, balanced dog food like Pooch & Mutts’ Chicken & Superfood blend, to keep fit and healthy. As Borders are prone to orthopedic problems, adding a Daily Joint Care Supplement to their food or considering a Joint Care Specific diet as they age is wise.

You'll find a handy feeding calculator on every product page here at Pooch & Mutt to help you identify how much of our health led recipes are right for the age, size and weight of your dog.