Border Terrier Border Terrier

Border Terrier

Affectionate Happy Plucky Adaptable

About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier hails from the border country between England and Scotland, where it was bred to bolt foxes from their dens while keeping pace with mounted hunters and their hounds. One of the smaller terrier breeds, it stands 12–15 inches tall and weighs 11.5–15.5 pounds, with a compact, narrow body designed to squeeze into fox burrows. Their distinctive otter-shaped head and wiry, weather-resistant double coat — which comes in red, grizzle-and-tan, blue-and-tan, or wheaten — give them a charmingly scruffy appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Border Terriers are affectionate, plucky, and adaptable — they have all the tenacity of a terrier but with a softer, more biddable temperament that makes them excellent family companions. They are good with children and generally get along better with other dogs than many terrier breeds. However, their strong prey drive means they cannot be trusted around small animals like hamsters, rabbits, or guinea pigs.

Pros

  • Adaptable to both country and city living — they adjust well to apartments with adequate exercise
  • More trainable and less confrontational than many terrier breeds
  • Low-shedding wiry coat that requires only periodic hand-stripping
  • Robust and healthy with a long lifespan of 12–15 years

Cons

  • Strong prey drive — they will chase squirrels, cats, and small animals relentlessly
  • Can be expert diggers and escape artists if left in a yard unsupervised
  • Hand-stripping the coat is time-consuming, and clipping changes the coat texture permanently
  • Prone to canine epileptoid cramping syndrome (Spike's disease) and heart defects

These scrappy, lovable terriers make wonderful companions — discover adoptable Border Terriers on Puplister.

Border Terrier Quick Facts

Size
12–16 lbs, 12–15 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes

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Available Border Terriers

Jazz
Young
Jazz
M

Border Terrier

Magnificent Mutts Rescue · Hillside, IL
Valentino
Baby

Collie / Border Terrier

Animal Education And Rescue · Libertyville, IL
Moochie & Gordo
Adult

Border Terrier

Pound Animals Worth Saving · Mesa, AZ
Max
Adult
Max
M

Border Collie / Border Terrier

Dog Star Rescue · Canton, CT

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a Border Terrier?
The Border Terrier is known for being affectionate, happy, plucky and adaptable.
How many Border Terriers are available for adoption?
There are currently 4 Border Terriers available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a Border Terrier from Puplister?
To adopt a Border Terrier, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.