Border Terrier
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General Description
Border Terriers are small-sized terriers with a lively appearance and a distinctive double coat. Their muzzles are short and their dark eyes possess an enthusiastic expression. They have black noses and a pair of small ears that fold forward into a “V” shape. Their teeth close in a scissors bite and their short, tapered tails are carried level with their back. Their limbs are lightly boned. Border Terriers have a wiry, coarse double coat that exists in a number of colors including red, blue & tan, tan, and grizzle & tan. White markings may be present on the chest.Character
Border Terriers generally get along well with other dogs if they are properly socialized when they are young. As with most terriers, they will not hesitate to start a scuffle with another dog if they dislike them. Generally they strive to please their owners, but are capable of independent though. Their love of people makes them great therapy dogs and they love to be praised. Border Terriers are agile jumpers and love to learn new tricks. They don’t require a lot of exercise but they enjoy it immensely.Border terriers are considered to be excellent with children. They also bark much less than other terriers.
Size
11 – 16 inches
Weight
11 – 16 pounds
General Health
Because Border Terriers are comparatively insensitive to pain and show few signs of illness, owners should pay close attention to the health of this breed. Border Terriers are susceptible to acquiring a hereditary canine disease called Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome. CECS has been recently recognized, and it often is confused with canine epilepsy. Also referred to as “Spike’s Disease”, CECS is considered to be a metabolic, muscle, and neurological disease. Border Terriers typically live for 15 or more years. They average 4 to 5 puppies per litter.
History
Originally bred in the Cheviot Hills next to the Scottish/English border, the Border Terrier was initially utilized to drive away foxes and kill them. This breed is very fast and agile, and despite their small size, they possess incredible stamina and a courageous attitude. The Border Terrier has bee used to hunt various types of game like otter and badger. Because of their lovable personality, Border Terriers are now often taken in as pets. The breed was officially recognized in 1920 by the British Kennel Club, and in 1930 by the AKC.
Maintenance
The coarse, wiry coat of the Border Terrier requires brushing on a weekly basis. Twice per year, this breed should be given a professional grooming. Border Terriers are minimal shedders and are a good choice for allergy sufferers. They should be bathed only as needed.Their coat needs to be 'plucked' as opposed to cutting with scissors. This involves the hair being pulled out by hand. It is not painful for them, however care does need to be taken around the head and muzzle which shouldn't need too much plucking anyway.
Ideal Environment
Border Terriers are content to live in a small household or apartment if they receive sufficient daily exercise. Because they were bred for hunting purposes, they have a lot of stamina and energy. They are moderately inactive indoors and will do fine with just a small yard.
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