When 18th-century farmers in the Cheviot Hills needed a dog to protect their livestock from foxes, they faced an impossible engineering challenge: they needed a terrier with legs long enough to keep pace with horses during a hunt, yet a body narrow enough to follow a fox into its underground den. Too big, and it couldn’t do the job. Too small, and it couldn’t keep up. The Border Terrier — named for the Anglo-Scottish border region where it was perfected — was their solution.¹
Today, this “no-frills working breed” remains remarkably true to its original form. There are no exaggerated features, no show ring distortions — just a tough, sensible little dog built exactly to do its job. That distinctive “otter-shaped” head? It wasn’t designed for looks; it was shaped to navigate tight underground passages. Those long legs on a small body? Perfect for a full day following horses across rugged terrain.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Hollywood loves them. Border Terriers have appeared in films like “There’s Something About Mary,” “Anchorman,” and “Return to Oz” — often cast as adorable mutts, which speaks to their unpretentious, everyman appeal.²
What You’ll Learn
- Why the Border Terrier’s temperament is unique among terriers
- The essential guide to hand stripping (why clipping ruins their coat)
- CECS/Spike’s Disease — a breed-specific condition every owner should know
- Health, exercise, and training requirements
- Australian pricing and breeder information
Border Terrier Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Terrier |
| Origin | Anglo-Scottish Border (Cheviot Hills), UK |
| Other Names | Coquetdale Terrier, Redesdale Terrier (historical) |
| Size Category | Small |
| Height | 28-33 cm (11-13 inches) |
| Weight (Male) | 5.9-7.1 kg (13-15.5 lbs) |
| Weight (Female) | 5.1-6.4 kg (11.5-14 lbs) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Coat Type | Double coat — dense undercoat, wiry topcoat |
| Colours | Red, wheaten, grizzle & tan, blue & tan |
| Shedding | Low-moderate (requires hand stripping) |
| Exercise Needs | 4/5 (High — 1+ hour daily) |
| Trainability | 4/5 (Intelligent but independent) |
| Good with Children | Excellent — sturdy and patient |
| Average Puppy Price (AUD) | $2,000 – $4,000 |
Data sourced from Kennel Club (UK), AKC breed standard, and Australian breed registries.³
History of the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier may be one of the oldest terrier breeds in Britain, with roots stretching back centuries in the rugged hill country between England and Scotland. The Cheviot Hills that form this border were (and remain) challenging terrain — rocky, harsh, and home to the “hill foxes” that terrorised farmers’ livestock.⁴
Local farmers and shepherds needed a dog that could do something seemingly contradictory: keep up with mounted hunters while also being small enough to pursue foxes underground. The Border Terrier’s unique proportions — long legs relative to body size, narrow shoulders, and a flexible spine — were the answer. They could run with the Border Foxhounds all day, then squeeze into the tightest fox dens to bolt their quarry.
Originally called the Coquetdale Terrier or Redesdale Terrier after villages where they were developed, the breed became known as the Border Terrier by the late 1800s due to its long association with the Border Hunt in Northumberland. The breed shares ancestry with the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and Bedlington Terrier from the same region.⁵
The first Border Terrier registered with The Kennel Club was “The Moss Trooper” in 1913. The breed was officially recognised in 1920, the same year the Border Terrier Club was formed. The first breed standard was written by Jacob Robson and John Dodd — men who understood that this was a working dog first, and any standard must preserve that function.
Unlike many terrier breeds that were “improved” for the show ring, the Border Terrier has remained remarkably true to its original form. There are no exaggerated features — no shortened muzzles, no extreme coats. The breed standard specifically notes they should have “no gross or incapacitating exaggerations.” This is a dog built to work, and it still looks like one.⁶
Border Terrier Temperament
Here’s what makes the Border Terrier unusual: they’re a terrier that was specifically bred to work peacefully alongside other dogs. While many terriers were developed to hunt independently (often requiring an aggressive, territorial nature), Borders were bred to run with foxhounds. This heritage gives them a notably less dog-aggressive temperament than many terrier breeds.⁷
“Hard as Nails, Game as They Come”: The breed standard describes them as “driving in attack” in the field — these are not soft dogs. But that toughness coexists with remarkable affection and trainability. They’re courageous without being foolhardy, alert without being yappy.
The Independent Thinker: Borders were bred to make decisions underground, out of sight of their handlers. This means they think for themselves — which can be both their most endearing and most frustrating quality. They’re not blindly obedient, but they’re also not stubborn for the sake of it.
Family-Oriented: “If you are looking for just a part-time dog or one to put in the kennel, the Border is not for you,” warns the Border Terrier Club of America. They want to be with their people — not demanding attention constantly, but definitely present. Borders form strong bonds and don’t thrive when isolated.
The Alert Watchdog: Borders are not excessive barkers, but they’ll definitely let you know when someone arrives. Some groups of Borders are known to “sing” or howl together — a characteristic likely inherited from generations of living in hunting kennels. Border fanciers affectionately call this their “angel choir.”⁸
Remember: this breed was designed to follow foxes underground. Expect a Border Terrier to be a determined digger. If you value a pristine lawn, you’ll need to provide designated digging areas or accept some landscaping modifications. This instinct is hardwired — you can manage it, but you won’t eliminate it.
Borders are excellent with children — sturdy enough to handle some rough play, patient, and genuinely affectionate. They typically get along well with other dogs (that foxhound heritage), but their prey drive means caution is needed with small pets. They’re not recommended for homes with rabbits, guinea pigs, or other rodents — their instinct to hunt vermin is strong.
Border Terrier Health Issues
Border Terriers are generally healthy and hardy — their working heritage selected for soundness over appearance. However, there’s one breed-specific condition every owner and potential owner should understand.⁹
Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome (CECS), also known as “Spike’s Disease” after one of the first documented cases, is a neurological condition that primarily affects Border Terriers. First recognised in the late 1990s, it causes episodes of muscle cramping and movement abnormalities that can look similar to seizures — but crucially, affected dogs remain fully conscious throughout.¹⁰
Symptoms include:
- Tremors of limbs, head, and neck
- Muscle cramping and unusual postures
- Abdominal discomfort with loud gut noises
- Staggering or inability to stand
- Episodes lasting seconds to 30+ minutes
- Dog remains alert and responsive throughout
The breakthrough: Research has shown CECS is actually a gluten-sensitive movement disorder. A 2015 study found that a gluten-free diet significantly reduced symptoms in affected Border Terriers. The condition is now sometimes called Paroxysmal Gluten-Sensitive Dyskinesia (PGSD) to reflect this understanding.¹¹
If your Border shows these symptoms, video an episode if possible (they’re rarely witnessed by vets) and consult a veterinary neurologist. A gluten-free diet may dramatically improve quality of life.
The PetMD and Australian Veterinary Association recommend awareness of the following:¹²
Hip Dysplasia: Less common in small breeds but can occur. Ask breeders about hip screening.
Patellar Luxation: Kneecaps slipping out of place — fairly common in small breeds. Ranges from occasional limping to surgical cases.
Heart Conditions: Congenital heart problems are possible. Cardiac evaluation is recommended for breeding dogs.
Juvenile Cataracts: Some lines show hereditary cataracts appearing in young dogs. Eye screening is recommended.
Recommended Health Tests (BTCA Guidelines):
- Hip evaluation
- Cardiac examination
- Ophthalmologist evaluation
- Patellar luxation screening
Border Terrier Lifespan & Longevity Tips
Border Terriers typically live 12-15 years, with many reaching the upper end of that range. Their working heritage, moderate size, and lack of extreme physical features contribute to their longevity.
Tips for a Longer, Healthier Life:
- Purchase from breeders who screen for hereditary conditions
- Maintain a healthy weight — obesity strains joints
- Provide adequate exercise (this is an active breed)
- If CECS symptoms appear, try a gluten-free diet
- Keep up with dental care
- Regular veterinary checkups, especially for seniors
Border Terrier Grooming Guide
The Border Terrier is often described as “low maintenance” — and compared to many breeds, that’s true. But there’s one grooming requirement that’s absolutely essential and often misunderstood: hand stripping.¹³
Borders have a double coat: a soft, dense undercoat for insulation and a harsh, wiry topcoat that’s naturally dirt-repellent and weather-resistant. Unlike human hair (or some dog breeds like Poodles), this coat doesn’t grow continuously. Each hair grows to a certain length, dies, and waits to be pushed out by new growth.
Hand stripping involves pulling out the dead outer hairs — either by hand or with a stripping tool — leaving the soft undercoat. This allows new, healthy hair to grow in properly. Done correctly, it’s painless because the dead hairs release easily.
CRITICAL: Do NOT clip a Border Terrier’s coat. Clipping cuts through the hair shaft rather than removing it, which destroys the coat’s texture and colour. A clipped Border loses its weather-resistant properties, the colour becomes dull and soft, and the coat may never fully recover. If you take your Border to a groomer, ensure they understand hand stripping — many groomers default to clipping.¹⁴
Shedding: Yes, but moderately. They shed more when their coat is “blown” (ready for stripping) and less when freshly stripped. Regular brushing helps manage loose hair. They’re not hypoallergenic, though their minimal shedding means less dander than heavy-shedding breeds. The RSPCA Australia notes that regular grooming is important for all terrier breeds.¹⁵
Smell: Properly maintained Borders have minimal odour — their natural coat is dirt-repellent. However, if the coat is allowed to become overgrown and mixed with old and new hair, it can trap odours. Regular stripping and brushing prevents this. Sunbathing, which many Borders enjoy, also seems to help keep them “sweet smelling.”
Grooming Schedule Table
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hand Stripping | 2x yearly (or rolling every 6-8 weeks) | Essential — do NOT clip; learn or find experienced groomer |
| Brushing | Weekly | Slicker brush removes loose hair; more frequent near stripping time |
| Bathing | Rarely — only when necessary | Bathing softens the coat; towel-dry usually sufficient |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2-3 weeks | Active dogs may self-maintain on hard surfaces |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly check | Small drop ears can trap debris |
| Teeth Brushing | 2-3x weekly | Daily is ideal |
Border Terrier Exercise Needs
Remember: this breed was built to follow horses all day across rugged terrain. Don’t let their small size fool you — Border Terriers need substantial exercise. At least one hour of activity daily is recommended, and they’ll happily take more.
Exercise Guidelines:
- 1+ hour of activity daily (walks, play, training)
- Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise
- They excel at agility, earthdog trials, flyball, and obedience
- Secure fencing is essential — they will dig and chase
- Off-lead exercise only in secure areas (prey drive is strong)
- They’re adaptable to apartment living if exercise needs are met
Warning: A bored Border Terrier becomes a destructive Border Terrier. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, expect digging, barking, and general mischief. They’re problem-solvers by nature — if you don’t give them problems to solve, they’ll create their own.
According to the American Kennel Club, Border Terriers regularly win earthdog trials — competitions that test a dog’s ability to navigate underground tunnels. This gives you an idea of where their instincts lie.¹⁶
Border Terrier Training Tips
Trainability Score: 4/5 – Intelligent but independent
Border Terriers are intelligent and generally willing to please — but they’re terriers, which means they have minds of their own. Training requires patience, consistency, and an understanding that you’re working with a dog bred to make independent decisions.
Training Strengths:
- Quick learners who enjoy mental challenges
- Food-motivated (which helps with training)
- Less stubborn than many terrier breeds
- Excel in obedience, agility, and trick training
- Respond well to positive reinforcement
Training Challenges:
- Independent thinkers — may decide your way isn’t best
- Strong prey drive makes recall unreliable around small animals
- Digging instinct is hard to redirect entirely
- Can be prone to bolting off to investigate interesting smells/people
Border Terriers are friendly and curious — they’ll often bolt off to greet people or investigate interesting smells. Their speed and agility make them difficult to catch once loose. Train recall early and consistently, but never fully trust it around prey animals. A long line is often safer than off-lead freedom in unsecured areas.
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| 8-16 weeks | Socialisation, positive exposures, basic house manners | Confident with people, dogs, environments |
| 3-6 months | Basic obedience, recall foundation, leash manners | Reliable basics in low-distraction settings |
| 6-12 months | Proofing commands, impulse control, sport intro | Reliable in moderate distractions |
| 1+ years | Advanced training, sport competition, continued learning | Well-mannered companion, possible competition dog |
Border Terrier Price & Costs in Australia
Border Terriers are moderately popular in Australia — not as common as some terrier breeds, but established enough that finding reputable breeders is achievable.
Finding Your Border Terrier:
Locate registered breeders through Dogs Australia or the Border Terrier Club (state branches). Ask about health clearances (especially cardiac and eye tests), CECS history in their lines, and whether they hand strip their dogs (this indicates breed knowledge). Expect to join a waiting list with responsible breeders.¹⁷
Initial Costs Table
| Expense | Approx. Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Border Terrier Puppy | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Initial Vet + Vaccinations | $200 – $350 |
| Desexing | $200 – $400 |
| Essential Supplies | $200 – $400 |
| Secure Fencing (if needed) | $500 – $2,000 |
| TOTAL INITIAL COST | $3,100 – $7,150 |
Annual Ongoing Costs
- Premium Food: $600 – $900
- Veterinary Care & Preventatives: $300 – $500
- Pet Insurance: $400 – $800
- Hand Stripping (professional, 2x yearly): $150 – $300
- Grooming Supplies: $50 – $100
- Toys, Treats, Miscellaneous: $150 – $300
TOTAL ANNUAL: $1,650 – $2,900
Lifetime Cost Estimate
Lifetime Cost Estimate: $22,000 – $45,000 (based on 13-year lifespan)
Border Terrier vs Similar Breeds
| Aspect | Border Terrier | Jack Russell | Cairn Terrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 5-7 kg | 5-8 kg | 6-8 kg |
| Energy | High | Very High | Moderate-High |
| With Other Dogs | Generally good | Variable | Generally good |
| Grooming | Hand stripping | Low-moderate | Hand stripping |
| Trainability | Good (independent) | Moderate (stubborn) | Moderate |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years | 13-16 years | 12-15 years |
Is a Border Terrier Right for You?
The ideal Border Terrier owner appreciates a sensible, no-frills dog with genuine working heritage. They’re active enough to provide substantial daily exercise but don’t need a dog glued to their side 24/7. They have a sense of humour about the occasional independent decision and don’t mind a bit of digging in the garden. They’re willing to learn about hand stripping (or find a groomer who does it properly).
Perfect For:
- Active individuals or families
- Those who enjoy terrier personality without extreme traits
- People interested in dog sports (agility, earthdog, obedience)
- Owners who appreciate a dog that thinks for itself
- Those seeking a sturdy, unpretentious companion
Home Size: Adaptable — apartment to large property
Yard: Secure fencing essential (they dig and chase)
Climate: Hardy in most conditions (bred for harsh weather)
Work Schedule: Can handle some alone time but not all day every day
Family: Excellent with children; good with other dogs; caution with small pets
❌ Households with rabbits, guinea pigs, or other small prey animals
❌ Those who want a perfectly obedient dog
❌ People unable to provide 1+ hour exercise daily
❌ Anyone who values a pristine lawn
❌ Those unwilling to learn about proper coat care (no clipping!)
The Border Terrier is that rare thing: a breed that has remained true to its original purpose while also adapting beautifully to modern family life. They’re tough without being aggressive, independent without being aloof, and active without being manic. The breed standard’s insistence on “no gross or incapacitating exaggerations” tells you everything about the breed’s philosophy.
Perfect for: Active families who want a hardy, sensible terrier with good temperament. Ideal for those interested in dog sports, outdoor activities, or simply want a companion who’ll keep up without demanding constant attention.
Think twice if: You have small prey animals at home, need a dog with reliable off-lead recall around distractions, or aren’t prepared to learn about proper hand stripping grooming.
First-time owner verdict: The Border Terrier can work for committed first-time owners who understand what they’re getting into. Their trainability and generally good temperament make them more forgiving than many terrier breeds. However, the exercise requirements and independent nature mean they’re not the easiest first dog — they need owners who are prepared to invest time in training and activity.
Border Terrier FAQs
Are Border Terriers good family dogs?
Yes, excellent. They’re sturdy enough for family life, patient with children, and less dog-aggressive than many terrier breeds. They want to be part of the family rather than isolated in a kennel.
Do Border Terriers bark a lot?
No, Borders are not excessive barkers. They’ll alert you to visitors and may “sing” (howl) with other dogs, but they’re not yappy. Under-exercised or bored Borders may bark more.
Do Border Terriers shed?
Moderately. They shed more when their coat is ready for stripping and less when freshly groomed. Regular brushing helps, but they’re not hypoallergenic.
Are Border Terriers hypoallergenic?
No. While their minimal shedding means less dander than heavy-shedding breeds, they still produce allergens. Spend time with Border Terriers before committing if you have allergies.
Do Border Terriers smell?
A properly maintained Border has minimal odour. Their natural wiry coat is dirt-repellent. However, if the coat becomes overgrown and isn’t stripped, it can trap odours. Regular grooming prevents this.
Are Border Terriers good with cats?
It depends. Border Terriers have strong prey drive and may chase cats, especially outdoors. Many live peacefully with cats they’ve been raised with, but it requires careful introduction and ongoing management. They’re NOT suitable for homes with rabbits or rodents.
How big do Border Terriers get?
Border Terriers reach 28-33 cm (11-13 inches) tall and weigh 5-7 kg (11-15.5 lbs). Males are typically slightly larger than females. They reach full size around 12 months.
How long do Border Terriers live?
12-15 years is typical, with many reaching the upper end. Their working heritage and lack of extreme physical features contribute to their longevity.
Primary Sources:
- Wikipedia — Border Terrier; Hill’s Pet — Border Terrier origin
- Royal Canin UK — Border Terrier filmography
- AKC Breed Standard; Kennel Club (UK)
- Hill’s Pet — Cheviot Hills origin history
- Wikipedia — Dandie Dinmont and Bedlington ancestry
- AKC — “No gross or incapacitating exaggerations”
- Hill’s Pet — Less dog-aggressive temperament
- Pet Behavior Associates — “Angel choir” singing
Health Sources:
- Border Terrier Health (UK) — CECS information
- UFAW — Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome
- Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 2015 — Gluten-free diet study
- PetMD — Border Terrier health: petmd.com
Grooming & Care Sources:
- Border Terrier Club of America — Grooming guide
- Groomers Online UK — Hand stripping vs clipping
- RSPCA Australia — Terrier grooming: rspca.org.au
Australian-Specific Sources:
- American Kennel Club — Earthdog trials: akc.org
- Dogs Australia — Breeder directory: dogsaustralia.org.au