The Benevolence of the Border Terrier Will Burrow Into Your Heart
Origin and Brief History
From their earliest days of bolting foxes, battling rodents, to backing badgers and other hunted animals into corners, the Border Terrier has been one of the most beloved of the Terrier breeds across Great Britain. Originally coined with the “Border” name due to being witnessed prevalently as a working dog along the border of England and Scotland in the 18th century, these sinewy energetic canines often had to forage for their own food sources in between dedicated guardianship of their owner’s livestock. The need to fend for themselves undoubtedly helped develop the breed’s natural instincts as an outstanding hunter.
What is regarded as one of the oldest breeds of Terrier in England, the Borders can exude a mild air of stubbornness, and are pronouncedly strong willed at times, yet on average remain evenly well-mannered. Their skills for high jumping, fast running with exceptional agility, make them a sheer joy to take to the park for an afternoon of assorted games or activities. The breed is also noted for getting along well with other animals, plus has an unmistakable trait of being affectionate towards children. An obviously intelligent animal with a true sense of dedicated admiration for their owners, the Border adapts well to multiple environments making them a wonderful addition to most any living situation.
The Border Terrier has what is referred to as a double coat with a noticeably dense yet soft undercoat and an erect wiry outer coat, naturally inherited to repel the weather elements including the dirt and grim from a days work. Heavy brushing at least once a week helps to keep the mixed texture of this coat unmated, but periodically a technique referred to as hand stripping, is required to clear away tangles helping to remove unhealthy dead hair. The full coat will grow back as if untouched in around two months. As a result of this tendency to have issues with the thick inner coat, many Border Terriers are maintained with short hair on their bodies, and an assortment of full hair spots left on their legs to avoid creating a long and spindly looking dog.
Specification of breed
A uniquely developed trait of the Border Terrier in respect to other mildly similar Terrier varieties were the sufficiently long legs that allowed them to maintain a fast gait to keep up with the hunting horses. Keenly identifiable by the otter-shaped head with a fairly long and strong muzzle that has a scissor bite, they have V-shaped ears that perk to present a natural keen sense of awareness to their surroundings. The male of the breed stands roughly a foot to a foot and half tall, with an average weight of around 16 pounds, the female counterpart customarily a couple pounds lighter, and an inch or more shorter.
Having been bred with an instinct to bolt, or burrow in the ground after a fox as part of their hunting chores, the Border Terrier may have a natural tendency to dig holes, or chase after moles and other underground varmints. If properly trained this habit can be minimized and easily eliminated. An owner will need to be attentive to the coat of this breed, where regular attention will help prevent matte problems, and also keep the animal more comfortable. With few requirements other than the care of their coat and appearance, the Border Terrier’s adaptable nature, and true devotion to their owners provide the characteristics for a lifelong bond.
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