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Terrier CharacteristicsBorder Terriers all too often find themselves in rescue or seeking re-homing through no fault of their own. These are breed characteristics should be understood before taking on a Border. The Border Terrier a charming breed, but can have all the characteristics of a working terrier that have been bred into him for many generations. Developed as a multi-purpose terrier he has the instincts to kill vermin, which may not appeal to the squeamish, and can't readily distinguish between the family pet rabbit and the wild variety. The Border Terrier may also have problems with cats unless introduced at an early age; puppies who are brought into a household with resident cats will generally have no problem in living perfectly peaceably, but adult dogs will be more interested in chasing them. Exercise and EscapingBred also to go out with the Hunt to flush foxes from their earth he has the energy to run all day; this level of fitness is obviously developed in the working terrier, but the pet Border still has energy to spare. Whilst he is happy to look decorative and play with the children and perfectly happy to be dressed up or cuddled, he does need adequate exercise to release his energy. If he does not get sufficient exercise he is likely to display anti-social behaviour such as excessive barking or possibly being destructive. He will also, if not offered the free running he needs, turn into an escaper, using his fox-flushing skills to squeeze out of the smallest spaces (Borders are generally diggers-under rather than jumpers-over or darters-through type of escapers) under fences or gates. Be aware that once a dog has learned to escape he will forever be looking for the opportunity. ObedienceThe Border Terrier has been bred to think for himself, to follow the Hunt and do his job with least supervision. An intelligent dog he isn't always perpared to see things from your point of view if he is simply having too much fun, so don't expect slavish obedience; work on co-operation. SociabilityAs a very recent pack terrier, the Border is more sociable than most terriers, but does require socialisation from an early age to ensure that he copes well in social situations with other dogs, both male and female. The Border Terrier has been unfortunate in recent years to see a great upsurge in popularity, which is never good for a breed. Whenever a breed becomes suddenly popular many puppies will inevitably find themselves in the wrong homes with owners who have not attempted to understand what they are taking on before carrying that sweet little chap home. Bad habits cannot always be undone, and adopters must be prepared to work to change him round. If you are not prepared to put plenty of effort in to ensure you are offering a permanent home then don't even think about adopting. TemperamentBorders are generally very even-tempered dogs, though as with all dogs be careful about introducing an adult dog into a home with young children if he is not familiar with children. Re-homingIf you do find yourself in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own Border Terrier then first contact your dog's breeder. They will, if they are responsible breeders, do all they can to help you reach a happy outcome. If this is not possible then contact Breed Rescue; these hard-working people are much better equipped than general rescue organisations to ensure a good match between dog and adoptive family. Be patient when contacting Rescue; they are run by busy people who give freely of their own time to help support the breed they love. Border Terrier Rescue OrganisationsBorder Terrier Welfare | |||