Border Terrier

Border Terriers typically live 12 to 15 years and stay healthy well into old age. Hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and Spikes Disease, a movement disorder unique to the breed, all occur. Patellar luxation is also noted. Source from health-tested breeders and schedule annual vet visits. This is generally one of the hardier small terrier breeds available.

The wiry double coat needs hand-stripping twice a year to maintain proper texture. Between stripping sessions, brush once or twice a week to manage loose hair. Avoid clipping since it softens the coat and changes its weather-resistant properties. Bathe only when your dog is genuinely dirty. Clean ears and trim nails regularly.

Your Border Terrier needs about 45 to 60 minutes of exercise daily. Walks, games, and off-leash play in a securely fenced area work well. Their prey drive is strong, so reliable recall in open areas is genuinely difficult. Mental stimulation through scent games and training keeps them sharp and content.

Border Terriers are intelligent and trainable but have a classic terrier independence streak. Positive reinforcement works well and keeps sessions fun. Start early with socialization and basic commands. They can be food-motivated which helps enormously in training. Their prey drive needs management through consistent recall training from puppyhood.

Feed a quality small-breed formula twice daily with measured portions. Border Terriers can gain weight easily if underfed in exercise but overfed in food. Keep treats minimal and use them as training rewards. Fresh water should always be available.

The Border Terrier developed along the border between England and Scotland, bred by farmers and huntsmen to run alongside horses and hounds while pursuing foxes through the rocky hillsides. They needed a dog small enough to go to ground after a fox but with long legs to keep pace with horses. The breed has changed very little from its working origins. The Kennel Club recognized it in 1920, and it remains one of the most capable small working terriers available.