A Border Terrier Is A Great Companion Dog
The Border Terrier is a level tempered dog that you might see being used as a therapy dog. They are known to have a high capacity to think independently and are very smart dogs. Terriers are extremely agile and have powerful jumping ability.
Border Terriers have an amazing ability to jump to great heights despite the shortness of their legs. They were long time foxhunters used for flushing fox out of their holes. They are natural born runners and need to be exercised regularly and love to be active.
Border Terriers are natural born runners. Their innate sense of the chase make these dogs a breed that you need to watch around small animals like mice, rabbits and such. They can learn not to chase the family kitten provided you raise them together but when you are out walking, best to keep them on a leash because they are likely to bolt if they see a stranger cat.
You do have to watch the stuffed animals around the house. The Border Terrier has been know to destroy and consume these stuffed fury friends. If your dog becomes lethargic, unable to sleep, non-interested in affection, best to get him to the vet for an x-ray just to rule out illness.
There are times with these dogs when they just love to sit and watch all the activity going on around them. You can be out for a leisurely walk and suddenly your Border Terrier will plop down and refuse to continue. Tiredness can often bring this type of behavior on as well.
As with all breeds, these dogs tend to be prone to cataracts, retinal disease and hip Dysplasia. Seizures and juvenile diabetes are also an issues and it’s very important to know that they are very sensitive to anesthetics however they are slow to put under despite their small size. This little dynamo can also have a high threshold of pain so if injured you might not even know.
The Border Terrier has a weather and dirt resistant coat which needs brushing. Hand stripping and weekly brushings can keep their shedding down. As adults these dogs will typically weigh in at about 15 pounds.
Exercise should be a big part of your Border Terrier’s life. They are very active and we can curb this behavior by consistent command training from an early age. Their willingness to please makes training your Border Terrier easier then other dogs.
Border Terrier’s can be a nice addition to you family, just remember their limitations. Socializing your dog early on can minimize the confrontational attitude of this dog. While it’s not displayed often, it can occur so keep a watchful eye on your new pup and all should go well.
Have a Dog that you Love? Check out Catherine’s favorite Pet Supplies for Dogs site that uses nature’s best ingredients. They carry the greatest selection of amazing Natural Organic Dog Shampoos on the market.