Border Terriers do not fit the "normal" definition of a Terrier. This dog was expected to be companionable and tolerant towards humans as well as towards other dogs. Border Terrier breeders, and people who have handled this breed for many years, place the importance of temperament as a primary consideration.  Border Terriers were bred originally to accompany Foxhounds on hunt, at times running with the pack all day long, if necessary.  When the fox would disappear down its fox hole, the Border Terrier's job would be to chase the fox into its lair, and "terrorize" it until it preferred to return to the surface to face the Foxhounds and the hunters rather than stay in its' hole with the Border Terrier. So we have another expectation, that of stamina, in addition to temperament. This dog was  used extensively by farmers as a ratter in the barn, and it would also hunt otter, badger and rabbit.  It has the reputation of being a versatile and hardworking farm dog, some would say that the dog was tireless.
     The Border Terrier has a double coat. The coat length is short, it is dense to protect against weather, briars and brush, and is rather harsh to the touch. Its' colors are shades of red, red with black tips (known as grizzle), tan, blue and tan, or wheaten.
     The body of the Border Terrier should appear to be square, not cobby or short backed like a Pug. This Terrier possesses longer legs than most terriers, after all it did need to keep up with the Foxhounds. It  has a narrow chest, this is to enable it to get through a fox hole. The Border Terrier  has a thick, and loose fitting hide.  The dog seems to slide in its skin, which is part of its defense should its' prey decide to turn and fight.
     The average range of weight for Border Terriers, both male and female, is 11-1/2 to 15-1/2 pounds.  Usually the female is slightly smaller than the male.
     One of the most notable features of the Border Terrier is that it's expression and face resembles that of an otter.
     Border Terriers tend to be very adaptable both to country and to city living.  Should you decide to keep this dog as an inside dog, daily walks are very important to keep its spirits up.  A very important note for those considering giving this type of dog a home.  If you are looking for a dog that will jog with you off  leash, please consider another breed.  More Border Terriers are killed by cars, than die of disease or old age.  The reason for this is that Border Terriers love to hunt, it is in their blood.  No matter how well trained your Border is, when it sees a rabbit or squirrel it will bolt after it.  The older they get, the worse they get at ignoring your commands. Some of these dogs have been rescued twenty five feet underground, where they had pursued their object of interest.  Some dogs have not been so lucky. These dogs are not safe off lead except in a securely fenced area.
     The Border Terrier is a dog that is shown in its natural state, without a lot of grooming, trimming, and fuss.  It is a very down to earth dog, possesses a friendly personality, it makes for a terrific companion but is not demanding of your time and attention, and it is not a "yappy" dog.  It can be a very dependable watchdog.  These dogs have done very well in Obedience Trials, Agility, and Earthdog Trials.

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