Border Terrier
Updated November 30, 2025
Admirers of the upbeat and agile Border Terrier cherish their breed's reputation as a tough, no-frills working terrier. These plucky, happy, and affectionate dogs are popular pets in town and country. The wiry coat is an easy keeper.
Affectionate, Good-Tempered, Alert, Trainable, Fearless
11.5-15.5 pounds
12-15 inches
12-15 years
Grizzle and Tan, Blue and Tan, Red, Wheaten
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Border Terrier
Admirers of the upbeat and agile Border Terrier cherish their breed's reputation as a tough, no-frills working terrier. These plucky, happy, and affectionate dogs are popular pets in town and country. The wiry coat is an easy keeper.
What Makes Border Terriers Special
The Border Terrier is a small, rough-coated terrier with a heart of gold. Bred for work, they possess a plucky and determined nature but are affectionate and easily trained at home.
Known for their unique 'otter' head, they have a distinctive look that sets them apart from other terriers. They are active and adaptable, happy on a farm or in a city apartment, provided their exercise needs are met.
Border Terrier History & Origin
The Border Terrier originates from the border country between England and Scotland and was bred in the 18th century as a working terrier. They were developed by farmers and hunters to have long enough legs to follow a horse but be small enough to go to ground after foxes.
The breed shares ancestry with the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Bedlington Terrier from the same region.
They were used to hunt foxes that preyed on livestock, working alongside Border Foxhounds.
The breed was known by various names, including the Reedwater Terrier and Coquetdale Terrier, before being named the Border Terrier.
The Kennel Club of the UK recognized the Border Terrier as a breed in 1920.
While some still work as terriers, they are now primarily beloved family companions.
Border Terrier Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Border Terrier Appearance
The Border Terrier is a small, sturdily built dog with a look that reflects its working origins. They are known for their distinctive otter-like head and alert expression.
Their wiry coat is designed to protect them from harsh weather and is relatively easy to maintain. They are longer in the leg than many other small terrier breeds.
Physical Features
Ears
Small, V-shaped ears of moderate thickness, set fairly high, which drop forward and lie close to the cheeks.
Eyes
Dark in color with a keen, intelligent expression. They are moderately sized and almond-shaped.
Nose
The nose is typically black and well-pigmented.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Border Terrier has a short, dense double coat. The outer coat is wiry and weather-resistant, while the undercoat is soft.
Coat Color
The coat can be red, wheaten, grizzle and tan, or blue and tan.
Tail
Moderately short, thick at the base and tapering to a point, often described as 'carrot-like'. It is carried gaily when the dog is alert.
Border Terrier Temperament
Admirers of the upbeat and agile Border Terrier cherish their breed's reputation as a tough, no-frills working terrier. These plucky, happy, and affectionate dogs are popular pets in town and country.
At home they're good-tempered, affectionate, and trainable. Borders love exploring outdoors and make fine childhood playmates.
The Border loves to chase rabbits and squirrels but can live in harmony with other household pets if socialized and introduced carefully. This dog is equally at home in town or country.
They are brave, adaptable and good with people, especially with children. Generally easy-going, they have an independent nature and like to make their own decisions.
Because of their instinct to chase small animals, a Border Terrier must always be walked on a leash, and play sessions must take place inside a fenced-in yard or other secure area.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Border Terriers are a generally healthy and long-lived breed with a life expectancy of 12–15 years. However, they are known to be prone to certain genetic health conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet checkups, professional dental cleanings, proper diet, regular exercise, and genetic screening.
How to Care for a Border Terrier
Border Terriers are active and adaptable dogs. Their primary needs are sufficient exercise to satisfy their energy levels and proper grooming for their wiry coat. They thrive on companionship and activity.
Grooming
The Border Terrier has a double coat: a hard, wiry outer coat over a soft, fluffy undercoat.
Like most double-coated breeds, the Border sheds seasonally. Most of the time, a quick brushing every week or two is enough to keep the coat in good shape.
The coat needs to be hand-stripped two to four times a year to remove dead hair and maintain its texture and weather-resistant qualities. Clipping is not recommended as it can damage the coat.
Bathing should only be done when necessary to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils that repel dirt.
As with all breeds, the BT's nails should be trimmed regularly.
Training
Border Terriers are one of the easier Terrier breeds to train as they are intelligent and eager to please.
Always use positive reinforcement, which uses treats, praise, and toys as rewards.
Start training and socialization early, beginning with basic commands around eight weeks of age.
Keep training sessions short and engaging, about 5 to 10 minutes, to hold their attention.
Due to their strong prey drive, recall training is crucial and requires patience and consistency.
Diet
Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, so they should eat little and often.
A high-quality dog food appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, senior) and activity level is recommended.
Choose a diet that is AAFCO-compliant. Small-breed foods are designed with appropriate nutrients and smaller kibble sizes.
Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome (CECS), a genetic condition, can sometimes be managed with dietary changes like a grain-free or hypoallergenic diet, but always consult a vet first.
Exercise
Borders are active dogs and need at least an hour of exercise daily.
A brisk half-hour walk or a play session with a ball should be enough to keep a Border healthy and happy.
They have a strong instinct to chase and dig, so they must always be on a leash when not in a securely fenced area.
Fencing should ideally extend underground to prevent them from digging out.
They enjoy participating in activities like agility, earthdog trials, and tracking.
Environment
Border Terriers are adaptable and can live in the city or the country, as long as they get enough exercise.
They are not ideal for apartment living if left alone for long periods without stimulation, as they are intelligent and energetic.
They crave human interaction and do best in a home where they are part of the family's activities.
They need a secure space to play, as their strong hunting instincts may lead them to chase small animals.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Adaptable to various living situations, including apartments, if exercise needs are met.
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable to both cool and warm climates, but care should be taken in extreme heat.
Apartment Living
Can do well in an apartment with a commitment to daily outdoor exercise.
Best Suited For
Perfect for active singles, couples, or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Border Terriers good with children?
Yes, Border Terriers are generally good-tempered and make fine playmates for children who know how to interact respectfully with a dog.
Do Border Terriers shed a lot?
No, Border Terriers are a low-shedding breed. They have seasonal shedding, but weekly brushing and periodic hand-stripping keep it manageable.
How much exercise do Border Terriers need?
They are an active breed and require at least an hour of exercise per day, including walks, play, and mental stimulation.
Are Border Terriers easy to train?
Yes, they are considered one of the more trainable terrier breeds due to their intelligence and biddable nature.
Can Border Terriers live in apartments?
They can adapt to apartment living, but only if their high energy and exercise needs are consistently met by their owner.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Start socialization and basic training early. Provide plenty of chew toys and establish a consistent routine.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability, monitor for joint issues, and provide regular vet check-ups.
First-Time Owner Tips
A good choice for first-time owners who can commit to their exercise and training needs.
Looking for a Border Terrier?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.