Dog Breed
Border Terrier
Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Busy little bee
Energetic, affectionate and full of beans, Border Terriers love nothing more than being active with you and the family. They’re independent and feisty, but their eagerness to learn makes training rewarding.
Border Terriers are sturdy, playful dogs that thrive on being kept busy. They generally get along well with people and other dogs, but their strong prey drive means smaller pets may be a different story.
Caring for your Border Terrier
Nutrition
Choosing the right food
Every dog is unique. From small companions to large, active breeds with different nutritional needs. ROYAL CANIN® Size Health Nutrition is designed to support dogs based on their size and life stage, helping maintain overall health, vitality and wellbeing. These formulas use carefully selected protein sources, targeted nutrients and tailored kibble to support digestion, energy levels, and bone and joint health across small, medium and large dogs.
Exercising your dog
Border Terriers may be small, but their exercise needs are not. They have plenty of energy and need lots of daily exercise and activity to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
They enjoy brisk walks and plenty of playtime. Games like fetch are a great way to keep them moving, while interactive toys can help keep them busy at home.
Border Terriers also have an in-built prey drive, which means walks should always be on a lead. Without one, they’re likely to take off after small animals they see or smell.
Playtime should always be in a fully fenced, secure area too. Garden fencing should extend underground to help stop your Border Terrier from digging underneath.
Training your Border Terrier
With their enthusiasm for learning, bravery and playfulness, Border Terriers make training fun. They’re capable of learning the basics quickly but, thanks to their independent streak, that doesn’t mean they’ll always listen.
Border Terriers respond best to positive reinforcement, where they’re rewarded for good behaviour with praise, treats or their favourite toy.
Early puppy socialisation is important to help them learn to play safely with others. Introducing them to different people, dogs and environments while young can help build confidence.
Keeping training interesting and consistent helps hold their attention and makes the most of their natural intelligence.
Your dog's health
By recognising health problems in Border Terriers early you can seek advice and treatment from a veterinarian.
Reduce the risk of health problems by purchasing a puppy from a responsible breeder. Always inspect breeding facilities and breeding dogs, and never buy from a distant online seller.
Health Issues to watch out for:
Joint problems
Gluten sensitivity
Tooth decay
Heart conditions
Spongiform leukoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM)
Grooming your dog
Border Terriers have a short, wiry double coat that’s relatively easy to care for. A brush every week or two helps keep their coat in good shape.
They shed seasonally, so brushing more frequently during spring and autumn helps remove dead hair. Their coat can also be hand-stripped every few months to remove old hair.
Border Terriers don’t need frequent baths because their outer coat naturally repels dirt. If they get particularly dirty, a thorough brush and towel clean may be enough.
Check their ears and nails during their weekly brush, and regularly brush their teeth to help maintain good dental health.
Key characteristics of Border Terriers
Border Terrier FAQs
Border Terrier FAQs answer common questions not covered above, including living arrangements, family compatibility and everyday life with the breed. Find out whether a Border Terrier could be the right fit for your household.
Are Border Terriers good for first-time dog owners?
Border Terriers can be suitable for first-time dog owners who are prepared for their independent terrier personality. Patience, consistency and an understanding of their strong instincts can make life with a Border Terrier much easier.
Can Border Terriers live in apartments?
Border Terriers can adapt to apartment living if they receive enough daily activity and enrichment. Their tendency to become vocal or bored when under-stimulated is worth considering when living close to neighbours.
Can Border Terriers be left alone?
Border Terriers generally prefer having company and can become bored when regularly left alone for long periods. Gradually teaching a Border Terrier to spend time alone and providing enrichment can help them settle independently.
Are Border Terriers good with cats?
Border Terriers can live with cats, particularly when raised and socialised with them from a young age, but their strong prey drive needs to be considered. Care should be taken around unfamiliar cats and other small animals.
Are Border Terriers good with children?
Border Terriers can be great family companions and generally enjoy playing with children. As with any breed, interactions between dogs and young children should always be supervised.
For households that understand their terrier instincts, a Border Terrier can be an affectionate, energetic and entertaining addition to the family.