A Border Terrier is a
medium sized working terrier who is hard as nails in the filed and
whose otter-like head set him apart from the other terriers.
The working Border Terrier male weights 13 to 15 pounds with females
weighing 11 to 14 pounds. The Border Terrier is of medium
bone, well put together, though rather narrow in shoulder, body and
quarters. Characteristic is his broken, very wiry jacket that
lies closely to his body which is never wavy or curly. Borders
are exhibited in their natural state, only slightly tidied up.
The eyes are described as full of fire and intelligence. The
ears are small and V-Shaped; not set on high but dropping forward
close to the cheeks. The muzzle is short and well filled; a
moderately broad curve at the stop is desired. The neck is
clean and muscular, gradually widening to the shoulders. Back
is strong and does not dip behind the shoulder. Ribs carried
well back and not over sprung; underline fairly straight. Tail
is moderately short, thick at base and tapering. Hindquarters
strong and racy; thighs long. Borders can be red, grizzle and
tan, blue and tan or wheaten; dark muzzle is desirable; white on
chest tolerable but not on feet.
This plain little brown
dog is one of the best hidden secrets of the fancy. The Border
Terrier is an unusually wonderful family dog, full of charm and
life. Being a 110% terrier, he is critter oriented and will
chase mice, rabbits, squirrels, etc. Although the family cat
is safe, other small mammal pets are not. Owners must have a
fenced in yard which is high enough that he doesn't jump over and
deeply imbedded that he doesn't dig under. Reliably easygoing,
sensitive, friendly and affectionate, the Border is an independent
spirit and likes to make his own decisions. Begin training
early. His independent hunting nature also makes him believe
he needs to find his own dinner, which makes walks very
interesting. Not given to bad habits or pestering, the Border
gains his admirers from the sensible dog folk, not moved by a fluffy
coat or a passing fad. Many owners opt for a second to keep
the first company.
