Border Terrier: Temperament, Coat and Everyday Care

A Border Terrier suits an active home that wants a friendly, adaptable, low-fuss small dog with real stamina. They are usually more easygoing than many terriers but still chase small animals and can wander off after a scent. The wiry coat is best hand-stripped a couple of times a year.

A grizzle and tan Border Terrier with an otter-shaped head sitting on a stone wall — The otter-headed terrier.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Border Terrier at a glance
Weight	Males about 13–15.5 lb (6–7 kg); females about 11–14 lb (5–6.5 kg)
Lifespan	Over 12 years
Coat	Wiry outer coat, dense undercoat; hand-strip a few times a year
Exercise	Up to an hour a day, and often keen for more
Good with	People and other dogs, usually; not small pets
Bred for	Running with horses and hounds to bolt foxes

Who a Border Terrier Suits

Border Terriers are affectionate, sociable and tough. They suit families, walkers and city or country homes, and they are often a good first terrier.

They are a harder fit for homes with rabbits, guinea pigs or rodents, and for owners who need reliable off-leash recall near wildlife.

Exercise and Recall

Borders were bred to keep up with horses, so most enjoy long walks. Practice recall on a long line and check fences: they can squeeze through small gaps. See recall training.

Hand-Stripping the Coat

The wiry coat is usually hand-stripped (dead hair plucked out) a couple of times a year, which keeps it weatherproof. Clipping is easier but can make the coat softer. A weekly brush keeps it tidy in between.

Gear for a Border Terrier

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A long line helps with recall practice. A stripping comb or knife helps with home coat care, and a tough tug toy and puzzle feeder keep a busy terrier entertained.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists a DNA test for spongiform leucoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM) as good practice for Border Terrier breeders. Ask to see the parents' results.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Finding a Puppy or a Rescue

Meet the puppy with its mother and see the parents' DNA test results. Border Terriers also come into rescues. See rescue vs breeder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tough little dogs, common questions.

Are Border Terriers good family dogs?

Often, yes. They are friendly and sturdy. Supervise with small children and small pets.

Do Border Terriers shed?

A little. Hand-stripping a couple of times a year removes dead hair.

Can a Border Terrier live with a cat?

Some do if raised together. Many chase cats outdoors.

How much exercise does a Border Terrier need?

Up to an hour a day of walking as a minimum; many happily do more.