Border Terrier
Description
Developed in
Northumberland, England's most northerly county, the Border Terrier was
required to be full of bravado as the farmers often relied on these
plucky little dogs to chase vermin which preyed on their flocks and this
game Terrier had to display considerable spirit whilst
protecting their flocks. Even though small in stature, they could
easily keep up with both horse and hound. Often called upon to 'bolt the fox' from its burrow and run with
the pack, flushing out the vermin each time it went to ground.
Temperament
The highly strung
and sometimes snappy Border Terrier can become very possessive of their
owners and rather wary of strangers - such that many of them have a
reputation for 'shoot first, ask questions later'. This quite
intelligent little dog, when well-trained is obedient and often excels
in agility classes. It
shows itself to be a more placid terrier, not as belligerent as other
terrier breeds nor as quarrelsome towards other dogs. Tending to be
somewhat yappy, especially around food, with adequate training, plus
mental and physical stimulation these problems can be overcome.
Appearance
Height:
28-41cm
(11-16in)
Weight: 5-7kg (11-16lb)
Group: Terrier
The Border Terrier
has a harsh and wiry top coat, and is built for
work rather than show. Their thick skin, or
'pelt' can be lifted from the body and with the water-repelling double
coat, is designed to protect the dog from the cold, harsh climate of its
homeland. Colours range from red, tan, grizzle (salt and pepper),
wheaten, or tan and blue.
Grooming
When these dogs
shed twice yearly, their
harsh top coat will shed or 'blow' and will require stripping away from
the undercoat. This is best done by hand by simply pulling the loose,
dead fur away from the coat whilst at other times the coat will require
weekly brushing or simply combing through with a narrow-toothed comb.
Bathing too often is not recommended as the wire coat is best left with
its natural oils and stiff structure intact. Clipping is not
recommended, the outer coat provides suitable insulation and protection
of the undercoat in all conditions.
Life Expectancy
10-12 Years
Health Concerns
This fairly sound
and healthy dog is from robust working origins however do have a
reputation of becoming overweight, though this is often attributed to
overzealous owners giving in to those pleading eyes. Being overweight
can reduce a dog's life expectancy however, a healthy, properly fed
dog will see it living to a great old age with few visits to the
local vet. Though not prevalent to the breed, there have been
occasional reports of slipping kneecaps in some dogs and heart murmurs
in older Borders.
Suitability
The Border
Terrier can make a great little family pet. They are a playful and
energetic, low maintenace small dog.
Border Terrier -
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