Border Terrier
Description
The Border Terrier is a small spunky terrier with a coarse, wiry double coat. Border Terrier has dark lively eyes, a short muzzle, black nose and small ears, which fold forward into a “V” shape. The jaw of a Border Terrier should meet in a scissors bite. The tail is relatively short and tapers from a thicker base to the tip. It is carried level with the back unless the dog is very excited. Its limbs are not heavily boned. The Border Terrier comes in red, blue and tan, grizzle and tan and tan. Normally the feet should not be white but it is possible that there is some white spots on the chest area.
Size of Male: Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 13-15.5 pounds
Size of Female: Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 11.5-14 pounds
Temperament
The Border Terrier is alert and lively, but mild-mannered. Especially affectionate with children and willing to please, the Border Terrier is relatively easy to train. Border Terrier are hardy, scruffy little terriers and a bold hunter. Socialize them well and get puppies accustomed to loud noises and city situations while they are still young to avoid excessive timidity. It will bark, but it is normally not aggressive. Puppies are very active, but they will mellow as an adult. Border Terriers like to dig and must be securely fenced in. Many owners use free-standing dog runs or additional reinforcements along the bottom of their fences. They may get themselves stuck in tight holes, though they can usually wiggle their way out. They are not trustworthy with hamsters, rabbits, rats or birds, but will generally get along with other dogs. If the puppy is raised with cats, family cats will not generally be a problem. The dog shouldn’t be trusted with other people’s cats however. If you have two Border Terriers, it is best to have a male and a female. This breed does not do well when left alone all day. They are economical to feed, for they will thrive on a cup of dry dog food per day.
Living Conditions
The Border Terrier will do ok in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Border Terrier are moderately inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Do take note that you have to bring your dog for exercise to ensure that it stays healthy and does not become destructive due to boredom.
Upkeep
The Border Terrier likes activity and needs either a good walk on leash, a vigorous game session or an off-lead expedition in a safe area every day. Border Terrier can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it does much better when allowed to divide its time between house and yard. The harsh coat of Border Terrier needs brushing weekly, plus stripping of dead hairs about four times yearly to maintain its clean outline.
Health
Major concerns: Epilepsy and Heart problems
Minor concerns: Cataracts, Lens luxation
Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years