Border Terrier Dog Picture
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The Border Terrier was originally called the Coquetdale Terrier or the Redesdale Terrier depending on which area they were bred. However, by the end of the 1800’s, they were referred to as Border Terriers which many believe was because of their close association with the Border Hunt of Northumberland.
They share their ancestry with other breeds, namely the Dinmont Terrier, Bedlington Terrier and Patterdale Terrier. These little dogs were bred to be strong, robust little terriers that were capable of coping with the bleak climate of the borders between England and Scotland. They were bred and used by local shepherds and farmers to keep the fox population under control. When foxhunting became a popular sport, Border Terriers were used to chase foxes out of their lairs when they ran to ground. These little terriers were renowned for their stamina, capable of following the hunt over great distances and still having the energy to continue working when the need arose. They are one of the UK’s oldest native terriers with records of them dating back to the 18th Century.
It was during the 19th Century that foxhunting became a popular sport and Border Terriers proved invaluable thanks to their stamina and tenacity when it came to tracking their prey and to flush out foxes when they went to ground rather than attack and kill them.
The dogs we see today are the same as the terriers that were bred back then with many enthusiasts believing them to be the “perfect” dog both in looks and nature, for the task they were bred to do in the borders between Scotland and England. Border Terriers were officially recognised as a breed by The Kennel Club in 1920 and over the years has gained in popularity to such an extent that they are among the most popular breeds in the UK achieving excellent results when competing at Championship levels too.
Interesting facts about the breed
- Is the Border Terrier a vulnerable breed? No, they are among the most popular breeds in the UK
- Border Terriers were once called Coquetdale or Redesdale Terriers
- The little dog that was Lassie’s sidekick called Toots was a Border Terrier
- Border Terriers excel at all sorts of canine sporting activities
- Border Terriers are gentle in a home environment, but tenacious and tough in the field
- They can squeeze through the smallest of holes
- Border Terriers have coats that are referred to as “loose hides”
- They have “otter-shaped” heads
