A dog that certainly knows he is a winner is the Border Terrier. All the traits of his personality indicate this, his charming manner being completed by his adaptability and friendly attitude. This breed is one of the most appreciated as champions, even though the dogs can also be used by farmers as help dogs. And why should they not? These terriers are able hunters, watchdogs and detectives and above all, they are obedient and agile in competitions.
The Border Terrier was initially bred in the Cheviot Hills region, on the border of Scotland and England. Its main purpose was to help farmers drive away and kill the foxes harassing their chicken. Even though this is a small dog, rest assured it compensates by being robust enough, with sufficient strength and legs long enough to keep up with a horse. Other terriers it is related to include the Bedlington Terrier and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Alongside the Border Foxhound, these dogs have made a career from chasing foxes across the hills. Expect any dog from this lineage, including the ones from this breed, to be strong and hefty but also, like other terriers, a very pleasant and welcome family pet.
Given his strong features, this dog has a well proportioned body that enables him to be agile and enduring. The chest and backside are narrow, rather than wide, with a head characteristic to its class, usually resembling an otter. The position of its body makes it look constantly alert, giving the Border Terrier a fearless, determined and decisive allure. It can weigh from 11 to 15 pounds. It has a very strong, narrow muzzle and small, V-shaped lateral ears, falling to its cheeks. It has short, thick, soft fur in its undercoat, but also an outer coat of close-lying fur. They can be red, golden, copper grey or copper black.
This is a cheerful, energetic dog, but it is not amongst the best behaved, you could even say it lacks some manners. It is sociable, affectionate and wants to please humans; therefore it is quite easy to train. He is also excellent around children, albeit the fact he can sometimes be pushy or affectionately aggressive when he plays. The Border Terrier can sometimes prove to be a bit stubborn, but on the whole, it is an obedient dog. If you do not want him to end up chasing cats, or other small animals all around the neighborhood, it is advisable you plan regular task-oriented activities which will stimulate him. This will be both efficient and fun, as these dogs are not only very intelligent, but they enjoy pleasing their owner, and will react well to rewards.
This is a generally healthy breed, with no particular diseases if the dog has an appropriate lifestyle. This means a balanced diet that ensures it does not become overweight, combined with regular exercise and daily walks, and a special attention to the coat, which requires regular brushing. If you do this to ensure the well being of your Border Terrier, he will make sure you are the happiest dog owner there is.
