Breeds
Border Terrier: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care
A Border Terrier is a good-natured, affectionate, hardy little working terrier with an otter-shaped head and a sensible streak that many terriers lack. Borders are great with children, friendly with people and adaptable, but they think for themselves, chase small animals and need daily exercise and secure fencing. The wiry coat is easy most of the year and needs stripping during sheds. Here is what to expect on size, lifespan, health and care.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read3 sources
Border Terrier temperament and personality
The AKC rates the Border Terrier five out of five with young children, four out of five for affection, playfulness, openness to strangers and trainability. Borders are active, cheerful dogs that enjoy being part of family life and tend to be more easygoing with people than many terriers.
The breed's parent club, quoted by the AKC, says a Border was bred to think for himself, which can be both his most endearing and most frustrating quality: told to stay, he will oblige for what he considers long enough, then slip off about his own business.
How big do Border Terriers get?
The AKC lists the Border Terrier at 12 to 15 inches tall, with males weighing 13 to 15.5 pounds and females 11.5 to 14 pounds. They are longer in the leg than many small terriers, and the head is described as otter-like.
The wiry coat comes in grizzle and tan, blue and tan, wheaten or red. A fit Border is lean and athletic; you should feel the ribs easily, and the dog should look ready to work.
Border Terrier lifespan and common health issues
The AKC gives a Border Terrier lifespan of 12 to 15 years and calls the breed generally healthy. Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, juvenile cataracts, seizures, heart problems and allergies. Recommended tests are patella, hip, cardiac and eye evaluations and a DNA test for spongiform leukoencephalomyelopathy, a neurologic disease.
VCA notes Borders can develop neurologic and endocrine conditions, and lists epilepsy, hypothyroidism and allergic skin disease among concerns. The AKC adds that some Borders tolerate hot weather poorly. Ask breeders for parent results, and see your vet about any episode of trembling, wobbling or collapse, or itchy skin.
Exercise needs
The AKC calls Borders active dogs that need plenty of exercise daily; a brisk half-hour walk or play session with a ball or flying disc is usually enough. VCA rates activity as moderate to high and says regular exercise supports both physical and behavioral health.
Because of their instinct to chase small animals, the AKC says a Border must always be walked on a leash, with play in a fenced yard or other secure area. Keep outdoor exercise to a minimum on hot days, as the AKC advises.
Border Terrier grooming and shedding
The AKC describes a hard, wiry outer coat over a soft undercoat. Most of the time, a quick brushing every week or two keeps it in good shape. Like most double-coated breeds, Borders shed seasonally, and during shedding season the AKC says to expect about half an hour a day stripping out dead hair.
Shedding is two out of five on the AKC scale overall. Stripping can be done by hand or with a stripping comb, and a groomer who knows terrier coats can show you how. Keep an eye on the skin under the coat for redness or scratching during allergy season. Trim nails, check ears and brush the teeth regularly.
Training a Border Terrier
The AKC says early socialization and puppy classes are a must. Borders learn readily and are rated four out of five for trainability, but their independent streak means short, rewarding, varied sessions get the best results.
Practice recall in fenced areas with high-value treats, and teach a solid leave-it for squirrels and cats. Give the dog outlets such as scent games and earthdog-style digging so instinct has somewhere to go.
Are Border Terriers good with kids and other pets?
Very often, yes. The AKC rates the Border five out of five with young children, and VCA says they are generally good with children. Their sturdy build and steady temperament make them good family terriers, though supervision is still wise with toddlers.
With other dogs the AKC rating is three out of five. VCA warns they may chase small animals and need supervision, so rabbits, rodents and birds should be kept safely apart, and introductions to cats should be gradual.
What a Border Terrier needs at home
Useful kit includes a secure, dig-proof fence, a well-fitted harness and leash, a crate, a stripping comb and slicker brush, nail clippers, a dog toothbrush, and durable tug, fetch and puzzle toys. A digging spot can save your flowerbeds.
Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Border home and ask about seizure signs, skin allergies and a safe exercise plan in hot weather.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Border Terriers live?
The AKC lists a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Daily exercise, a lean weight, regular vet checks and attention to any unusual episodes or skin problems help a Border live a long, active life.
How big does a Border Terrier get?
The AKC lists 12 to 15 inches tall, with males at 13 to 15.5 pounds and females at 11.5 to 14 pounds. They are small, leggy, athletic terriers.
Are Border Terriers good family dogs?
Yes, for most active families. The AKC rates them top marks with children, and they are friendly and adaptable, though they chase small animals and need secure fencing.
Do Border Terriers shed?
Seasonally. The AKC says a quick brush every week or two is usually enough, but during shedding season expect daily stripping sessions of about half an hour.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
