Of the thirty-three terrier breeds once used for hunting, ratting, and watching the land, Border Terriers are some of the most tireless, most relentless of the group. These traits, most deserving of praise, likely came about at the start, when this breed was first developed.
Sometime in the middle of the 19th century, the farmers and shepherds of the Northumberland Valley of Coquetdale»on the border of Scotland and England-- needed a working breed that would protect the livestock from hill foxes. More specifically, they needed a game terrier small and quick enough to trail foxes and at the same time enduring enough to follow alongside the ranchers» horses. Like the Border Foxhound they would come to work with on the hunts, Border Terriers were selectively, successfully bred.
Border Terriers are still a success: they are especially obedient (and therefore easily trained) and are at their best in the fields and pastures where they reveal a corralling and protective tendency, a drive, and a seemingly tireless attitude. To be emphasized is how--although they are innately pack-running animals (and therefore some of the least likely to engage in conflict or competition)--if called to, they will meet with confrontation with vigilance, refusing to back down or back off regardless of the size of their opponents. Back at the homestead, the breed is just as comfortable, adapting the contrasting indoor environment, resting agile and active little bodies with mild-mannered, loving temperaments.
Yet since they are so notably active and alert, if Border Terriers are not chasing fox or helping round up cattle, they must have daily exercise to maintain the mental acuity and alertness and the physical prowess of their smallish 13 to16- inch,11 to15-pound frames.
As if their contributions to the household without demanding much in return weren»t remarkable enough, Border Terriers»with their short wire-haired coats»need very little grooming, save the occasional (every eight weeks or so) plucking of a knot or wire-brushing of their hair to prevent matting.
But just because they are low-maintenance, are delicate, and are so amenable, you should still pay attention to them»because the hunters that they are need to dig, run, chase, and chew, and should not be left bored. And you can still give love and affection to this loving and affectionate breed. Except with food, which they will attempt to convince you they needs 24-7!
