Ratings

Breed Introduction

The Border Terrier is one of the smallest terrier breeds, standing at around 25 cm with a head resembling that of an otter. Despite its small size, it can closely follow horses while hunting and tackle foxes and even tougher badgers. Its narrow shape allows it to effortlessly squeeze through any tight gaps and traverse various terrains, even burrowing into rabbit and fox holes to hunt for prey. The thick, undulating yet snug coat protects it from the harsh, cold climates of the border region. It is believed to have descended from a type of border hunting dog. The Border Terrier Club was established in 1921 and now has spread worldwide.   

The breed’s development dates back to the 18th century. The Border Terrier, being one of the smallest terriers, has a distinctive otter-like head. While small, it can run closely alongside horses when hunting, handling foxes and even more difficult badgers. Its slender build means it can pass through tight spaces with ease and cross varied terrains, including burrowing into the dens of foxes and rabbits to catch animals. Its dense, The Border Terrier Club was formed in 1921 and has now reached a global presence.   

By its name, it is inferred that the ancestor of the Border Terrier comes from the Cheviot hills in the English borders and is recognized as one of the oldest terrier breeds in Great Britain. As a pure ‘working terrier’, shepherds and sportsmen in the borders have preserved this dog’s unique lineage over generations, ensuring it can be found in every estate in the border region. The hills within a few kilometers of their dwelling are their territory, where strong mountain foxes threaten livestock. Farmers and shepherds needed a quick-running terrier that could burrow underground to pursue foxes. These dogs must be lively, robust, tireless, and have coats that can withstand the wet and humid climate of the hilly areas.