This scruffy breed is cheerful, devoted…and can be a handful. They need a lot of YOU time to be happy and stay out of trouble. Consider yourself warned.
Size:
13-16 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
This is one active breed. Alert and quick-minded, they’re agile and love to get up and out and into all sorts of things. (They will squeeze through narrow spaces to play or to capture anything they want to get their paws on). Twice-daily walks are mandatory. Tossing a ball around and letting your Border Terrier run every day can also help burn off their energy.
Mess Factor:
Your Border Terrier will shed, but this can be minimized by frequently brushing loose hair.
Barking and Volume:
Yappy and highly protective of their owners, these small terriers will bark at anything and everything (from strangers to the television to a slight gust of wind). Training will be necessary to break this habit.
Training Requirements:
These pups will thrive–and be better family members–with training. They will benefit from one-on-one training at home but public puppy school can be useful. Without proper training, Border Terriers can become aggressive and destructive.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: This breed suffers from a hereditary disease called Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome (aka: Spike’s Disease). It can cause the pups to become disoriented or confused and can also increase their chances of developing epilepsy. Other problems can include cancers and certain neurological and muscle disorders. *A reputable breeder can help minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: Home grooming is sufficient.
Training: You’ll need a puppy class at a minimum.
Grooming Requirements:
This low-maintenance breed requires little more than weekly brushing and occasional baths to keep their coats fresh and clean. Remember: they’re supposed to look scruffy, so if you slack a little in the grooming department, none will be the wiser.
Kid Compatibility:
These pups adore children. However, thanks to their high energy level, they do best with older children. They’ll need to be socialized and supervised around the younger set.
Longevity:
15 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
Border Terriers can be in a family with other dogs and cats, if they’re socialized early. They have a hunting instinct and may view smaller animals as vermin, so watch your gerbils.
Friendliness: Towards People
Border Terriers are eager to earn love from everyone–that includes strangers. They know that they’re charming and like the challenge of winning the hearts of new people. They’ll be especially affectionate with their families.
BE PREPARED FOR: This breed is social and loving…with a stubborn side. They’ll need a lot of YOU time. If you don’t provide them with attention, they could rebel.
