The Border Terrier is a dog bred on the border of Scotland and England
to hunt fox that prey on the livestock there. Thus they were bred for function
rather than aesthetic appearance. The first written record of the breed
appeared in England in 1880. They were also called Reedwater Terriers and
Coquetdale Terriers for regions where they were being bred. They are small
dogs that must have sufficient length of leg to keep pace with horses on
the hunt yet squat enough to go to ground after foxes (see below). They
were recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1920 and the American Kennel
Club in 1930.
The Border Terrier's small size and alert but obedient demeanor make him
a marvelous watchdog and companion. He is a tireless, hard worker who is
also a strong obedience trial competitor.
The Border Terrier has an "otter-like" head with a moderately
broad flat skull and a short, strong muzzle. Dark hair on the muzzle is
preferred. The nose is black and the bite is scissors. The eyes are dark
hazel, of moderate size and neither prominent nor small and beady. The ears
are small, v-shaped, fold at level with the top of the skull and drop close
to the cheek. He is medium boned, strong and active. The neck is muscular
and only long enough to give a well-balanced appearance. The topline is
level. His legs are straight. His body is somewhat narrow to enable him
to enter fox burrows. The tail is moderately short, but not docked, set
high and carried gaily. His coat color may be red, grizzle and tan, blue
and tan, or wheaten. It is excessively wiry and weather resistant in order
to withstand the harsh climate of the border region. His average height
is eight to eleven inches and average weight is between eleven and fifteen
pounds.
Name withheld by request of Ohio writes:
I love Border Terriers!
I love this dog because it is a very good companion to everyone, loyal,
energetic and cuddly. I'm very energetic and need an energetic dog and we
need a small dog like the Border Terrier. I think the Border Terrier is
a better companion than the Jack Russell Terrier because the Jack Russell
doesn't like to cuddle very much, too energetic, digs holes, and isn't very
good with other pets. That is why I think this dog is for people who like
small dogs.
Name withheld by request of Colorado writes:
The most adaptable dog we have ever owned.
Border Terriers are the most adaptable dogs in the world. They do equally
well in the country or in an apartment. They are equally adept at being
a "lap" dog or as an energetic jogging or running companion. They
are extremely intelligent and responsive. They are easily trained but are
sensitive and the owner should have a light hand. We have had our B.T. for
two years, and can honestly say that he is the best breed we have ever owned.
While he is a Terrier and as such displays a robust attitude, he is not
hyperactive as some Terrier breeds are. Our B.T. is an excellent watchdog
and barks whenever someone comes to the door, but he really loves people
and kids. All in all you could not find a better companion than a Border
Terrier.