Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a small, hardy working breed originating from the border country between England and Scotland, where it was developed to hunt foxes threatening livestock on the hill farms of Northumberland and the Cheviot Hills.
Unlike many terrier breeds bred to go underground, the Border Terrier needed to be long-legged enough to keep pace with horses and hounds across open moorland while remaining small enough to follow foxes into their dens.
8-10kg
Weight
Small
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Border Terrier
Standing 38–44 centimetres at the shoulder and weighing 8–10 kilograms, this compact, wiry dog features a distinctive otter-shaped head, keen dark eyes, and a dense, weather-resistant double coat that requires only occasional hand-stripping or trimming. The breed comes in grizzle and tan, blue and tan, red, or wheaten colours. What truly sets the Border Terrier apart is its temperament. Affectionate, even-tempered, and sensible, it is widely considered one of the most family-friendly terrier breeds. These dogs are attentive to household routines and genuinely enjoy human companionship, preferring to remain close to their owners. With a lifespan of 12–14 years and exercise needs of around one hour daily, Border Terriers adapt well to family life. They typically get on excellently with children and other pets when properly socialised, making them greatly loved companions for the right household.
Border Terrier at a Glance
- Group
- Terrier
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 8–10 kg
- Height
- 38–44 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £600–£1000
Border Terrier Temperament
The Border Terrier is a sturdy, even-tempered and affectionate breed with a great deal of character packed into a small frame. Sensible and generally well behaved, it does not have the instant obedience of a gundog, preferring to assess a situation in its own time. Sensitive and companionable by nature, it likes to remain close to its owner and is attentive to the household routine. Border Terriers are usually excellent with children, though as with all dogs, children should be taught to treat them with respect. They enjoy other dogs and pets when properly socialised, and their manageable size and loyal disposition make them a greatly loved family companion.
Border Terrier Lifestyle
The Border Terrier is one of the more adaptable breeds when it comes to home size and copes well in a flat and does well with some outdoor space, even if it isn't large. They are comfortable in either a town or rural environment.
Dog Food for Border Terrier
Top-rated foods for Small breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Border Terrier
Border Terrier Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Border Terrier weighing around 9 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£2.14 - £2.29
Per month
£64 - £69
Per year
£783 - £834
Border Terrier Characteristics
The Border Terrier demands serious exercise and won't be happy with a quick stroll around the block and trains well and tends to enjoy learning new skills. They are very patient and gentle with kids, but can be left for short to moderate periods without issue. The coat benefits from a brush once or twice a week and sheds moderately. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Border Terrier Pros & Cons
Pros
- Adapts well to active family life with strong loyalty and affection
- Compact and sturdy, great for outdoor adventures and canine sports
- The wiry coat is relatively low maintenance with manageable shedding
- Quick learners with an eager-to-please attitude
Cons
- A high prey drive means secure fencing and careful management outdoors are a must
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods
- Can be stubborn and independent, making consistent training important
- May bark excessively if bored or under-stimulated
