| A Breed
Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics,
temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed
is fit for function. Absolute soundness is essential. Breeders and
judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions
or exaggerations which could be detrimental in any way to the health,
welfare or soundness of this breed. From time to time certain conditions
or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect
dogs in some breeds adversely, and judges and breeders are requested
to refer to the Kennel Club website for details of any such current
issues. If a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present
in the right measure. |
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General
appearance
Essentially a working terrier.
Characteristics
Capable of following a horse, combining activity with gameness.
Temperament
Active and game as previously stated.
Head and Skull
Head like that of an otter. Moderately broad in skull, with short
strong muzzle. Black nose preferable, but liver or flesh coloured
one not a serious fault.
Eyes
Dark with a keen expression. |
Ears
Small, V-shaped; of moderate thickness, and dropping forward close
to the cheek.
Mouth
Scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and
set square to the jaws. Level bite acceptable. Undershot or overshot
a major fault and highly undesirable.
Neck
Of moderate length.
Forequarters
Forelegs straight, not too heavy in bone. |
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Body
Deep, narrow, fairly long. Ribs carried well back, but not oversprung,
as a terrier should be capable of being spanned by both hands
behind the shoulder. Loins strong.
Hindquarters
Racy.
Tail
Moderately short; fairly thick at base, then tapering. Set high,
carried gaily, but not curled over the back.
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Feet
Small with thick pads.
Gait
Has the soundness to follow a horse.
Colour
Red, wheaten, grizzle & tan or blue & tan.
Size
Dogs 5.9 - 7.1 kg (13-15 lb.); Bitches 5.1- 6.4 kg (11 - 14 lb.)
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Faults
Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault
and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should
be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect on the terrier's
ability to work and the health and welfare of the dog.
Note - Male
animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended
into the scrotum. |
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But what are Border Terriers actually like though?
Border
Terriers are, as the standard says, essentially working terriers.
They were originally bred to assist in the control of foxes
in the border country between Northumberland and Scotland. Even
though you may want a Border Terrier purely as a pet; you cannot
deny their heritage and instinct....especially when out for
a walk and they despatch a passing mouse!
Sometimes
this instinct can cause them to 'turn a deaf ear' to your calls
when out; but if you work on a good, consistent, reliable recall
as a pup this should help in this type of situation.
It
is very important that you socialise and train a Border early
on, as without this they could become a real handful later on
as although they love to please, they do have an independent
streak.
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A training class with someone who has experience of many different
breeds is an excellent idea. A trained Border is a happy Border
(with an even happier owner!).
Beware though not to give harsh corrections as Borders do not
respond to this type of training. They much prefer to please you,
and so positive reinforcement is the way to go.
Due
to their heritage, they do have quite a high 'prey drive' (like
most terriers) but you can channel this drive into great games
of chasing and playing with balls, which provide hours of fun
for your dog and good exercise.
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However,
even the best trained Border will give you the deaf ear at some
point, usually while chasing rabbit or deer! You must be aware of
this instinct when taking on a Border.
Many Borders live quite
happily with cats, having been introduced to them as pups; but outside
the home environment they may not be quite so tolerant of other
cats!
Borders are intelligent and game dogs; they love to be 'doing' but
after the day's adventures appreciate a cuddle on the couch.
For
the most part they are very biddable and adaptable. They are a no-nonsense
breed that loves to be part of whatever activity the family is involved
in; be it showing, agility, obedience, hiking, cycling, sailing
or gardening!
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However,
beware of a bored Border; they'll find something to entertain themselves
with, whether it is chewing, digging or trying to find a way out
of your garden. It is essential that your garden is secure. Keep
their minds and bodies busy though and you'll be rewarded with a
content companion.
On the whole; Borders are a healthy and hardy breed not afflicted
with the types of conditions seen in some other breeds.
Much
is said of the Border's double coat. It has a harsh outer coat to
provide protection and a soft undercoat to provide warmth.
The
top coat needs 'hand-stripping' a couple of times a year to allow
the new coat to grow through.
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It
is not advisable to use clippers instead of hand-stripping (except
maybe on old or infirm animals) as the coat will change in texture
and appearance, effectively 'ruining' the coat. Between strips,
however, the coat is very easy to care for; just requiring a brush
through a couple of times a week with a terrier-pad. Usually your
Border's breeder will be the best person to give advice on hand-stripping
and coat care and may well offer to do the first few strips with
you. |
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What
can I do with my Border Terrier?
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An
easier question would be what CAN'T I do with my Border Terrier?!
They are a versatile breed that can turn their paw to many activities.
Borders can be found working very successfully in many disciplines;
conformation showing, agility, obedience, HTM, terrier racing,
working vermin, flyball, therapy dogs and of course being great
company for those who love to walk.
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