The Border Terrier is a small but sturdy dog originally bred for chasing foxes out of their dens along the English-Scottish border. Despite their rugged background, they’re incredibly affectionate and social with people. This breed is a great fit for active families, especially those who want a dog with a bit of a wild side and plenty of charm.
They may look scruffy, but don’t let that fool you—these dogs are athletic, alert, and full of heart.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 10 to 11 inches (25 to 28 cm) |
| Weight | 11 to 16 pounds (5 to 7 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Wiry, dense, weather-resistant |
| Colors | Red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, wheaten |
| Temperament | Energetic, affectionate, bold |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high |
| Exercise Needs | 30–60 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Low to moderate |
| Trainability | High, but with some independence |
| Average Price | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| Best For | Active homes, terrier lovers, families with older kids |
Where They Come From
The Border Terrier got its name from the border region between England and Scotland. Farmers and hunters there needed a small dog that could keep up with horses, chase foxes, and squeeze into tight places. The breed’s wiry coat and tough body made them ideal for the job.
Today, they’re still agile and quick, but more often found curled up on the couch—after they’ve burned off their energy outside.
What They Look Like
This breed has a compact, lean frame with a distinctive otter-shaped head and bright, dark eyes. Their ears are small and V-shaped, folding forward. The coat is dense and wiry, made to resist harsh weather and rough terrain.
Common coat colors include red, wheaten, blue and tan, or grizzle and tan. Many people choose to keep their coat in its natural state, though some light trimming can help keep them neat.
Personality and Behavior
Border Terriers are full of personality. They’re brave, affectionate, and love being with their people—but they’re also classic terriers with a strong prey drive and independent streak.
Key traits:
- Curious and alert, always ready to explore
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Social and usually good with other dogs
- Sometimes barky or chasey with small animals (especially if not trained early)
They’re typically good with kids, though supervision is smart with very young children due to the dog’s spirited nature.
Training and Social Life
These dogs are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, but they like to do things on their own terms. Training should start early, and sessions should be fun, short, and consistent.
Use reward-based methods with food or toys, and don’t be surprised if they test boundaries—especially when outdoors and tempted by squirrels or birds.
They do well in agility, obedience, and even therapy work if given the right guidance and mental engagement.
Exercise and Activity
Border Terriers are active dogs that enjoy walks, hikes, and playtime. They need daily exercise to stay calm and content indoors.
A typical day should include:
- A 30–60 minute walk or outdoor activity
- Time off-leash in a secure area
- Mental stimulation (training games or food puzzles)
Without enough activity, they may turn to digging, barking, or chewing. These dogs are smart and need more than just a backyard—they need interaction.
Grooming and Shedding
One of the perks of this breed is their easy-to-manage coat. The wiry fur doesn’t shed much, especially with regular grooming.
Care tips include:
- Brushing once or twice a week
- Hand-stripping the coat 2–3 times per year to maintain texture
- Bathing only when necessary (they don’t usually smell)
- Nail trims and dental care regularly
They’re considered fairly low-maintenance compared to other terriers.
Health and Longevity
Border Terriers are generally healthy and live long lives, but they can be prone to some genetic conditions. Health issues to watch for:
- Hip dysplasia
- Heart problems
- Epilepsy
- Eye disorders
- Skin problems
Responsible breeding and routine vet visits help reduce the risk of serious problems. This is a hardy little breed that usually handles life’s bumps well.
Diet and Feeding
They do best on a high-quality small breed formula with lean protein and balanced nutrients. Most adult Border Terriers eat ¾ to 1.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
Watch portions and limit treats—these dogs are small and can gain weight quickly if overfed. For more options tailored to energetic pups, explore this guide on the Best Dog Foods for Active Dogs.
Cost and Availability
A Border Terrier puppy from a breeder typically costs between $1,000 and $2,000. Adoption fees are lower, around $100 to $500, and breed-specific rescues sometimes have available dogs.
Monthly costs are average for a small dog, but factor in occasional professional grooming if you plan to have their coat hand-stripped.
Is the Border Terrier Right for You?
This is a great match for active families, individuals who want a small but sturdy dog, and anyone who enjoys the terrier personality—bold, clever, and entertaining.
They’re best for:
- People with time for daily walks and training
- Owners who enjoy interactive play and mental challenges
- Families with kids or other dogs
- Those looking for a small dog with big energy
They may not be ideal for:
- Very quiet households
- Owners who dislike barking or chasing
- People who want a lapdog without an independent streak
For the right person, the Border Terrier is a loving, scrappy, and loyal companion that’s always up for an adventure—big or small.
If you’re exploring more kid-friendly small breeds, check out this list of the Best Small Dogs for Kids.