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Breed profile

Border Terrier

Otter-headed working terrier that settles happily into family life. Game, affectionate and less scrappy than most terriers. Small pets beware.

Head-and-shoulders portrait of a grizzle Border Terrier in a red collar, eyes closed and mouth open, against a blue sky and hay field.
A Border Terrier in the countrysidePhoto: Crazelpup / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Weight
5–7 kg11–15 lb
Height
25–36 cm10–14 in
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
Group
Terrier
Origin
England / Scotland (Border country)
Popularity
#91 US#12 UK · 2025

Known for: Family dogsGood with other dogs

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Affectionate, Game, Good-natured, Determined.

Health problems to know about

  • Gallbladder mucocele
  • Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome (CECS)
  • Spongiform leucoencephalomyelopathy (SLEM, DNA test)
  • Cushing's disease
  • Patellar luxation

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

At least an hour a day, ideally with some off-lead time in a secure area, because the prey drive is real. Brush weekly and hand-strip about twice a year; clipping softens the coat. Secure fencing.

A good fit for

Families, multi-dog homes, walkers who want a sturdy small dog with stamina.

Probably not ideal for

Homes with rabbits, guinea pigs or pet rats, people out all day, owners who need flawless recall near wildlife.

Sources

  1. Royal Kennel Club: Border Terrier
  2. PDSA: Border Terrier breed information
  3. PetMD: Border Terrier
  4. Wikipedia: Border Terrier

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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