I am fairly new to this site and have never had a terrier breed before (I am a flatcoated retriever owner and fan). I very much like the look of the Border Terrier and wonder if there is anyone out there who would like to relate their experiences of owning one. I have read the breed standard etc., but there is nothing like getting it from someone who has experience of them.
What would you like to know? They are fabulous dogs in the right hands. Wonderful companions, cheeky, outgoing, sociable, can be very "work" minded, overall a lovely dog if you respect its heritage and know what you have. Ask any questions you like.
Must be something to do with the two breeds.... We seriously considered getting one (Dawns are lovely )
Thank you Borderdawn - I think what I really need to find out is a bit about the "terrier" aspect. I have come across a few and I understand that they are courageous little dogs and that they are quite tenacious when they get serious. When I think of a terrier, I always think of Rick Stein's Chalky - full of character, but quite a bundle to be reckoned with when roused. Do they get on with other dogs generally. Border Terriers seem a little apart from other types of terrier, the fox terriers and Jack Russells, etc. and I have the impression that they are level headed and sensible little dogs. Can you give me an idea how they are to train and what approaches work best. I am not looking for an obedience type of dog and my experience of owning dogs has always been with the gundogs and collie breeds, who usually have a very keen desire to please, which I seem to find easy (most of the time anyway). I am not sure at this stage if I will actually want to change breeds, but if I do I am keen to try and "do it right". I'll do a bit of reading up as well.
In general they are less argumentative than other Terriers, they were bred to run with a pack of Hounds, any squabbling would of dealt with quickly! I have 2 entire males, one unspayed female and one spayed female. I have had 3 entire males together with no problems. They are very much the working terrier, their instincts are strong and could, and do, prove too much for novice owners. They get on well with their "own" animals, I have 6 Cats, but they may see any other as fair game. They have fabulous characters, outgoing, bouncy and sociable. They are a breed that do not respond to harsh correction, it WILL be counter productive. A raised voice is more than enough for a Border, they are a sensitive dog that responds well to praise and reward. You can train them to a very reasonable standard, a lot compete in agility, but I doubt you will find one in obedience! I can run mine loose with no problems. They all have very good recall, BUT, one of them will give chase to a scent if he picks it up. No distractions, no problem. None of mine have ever run over to other dogs, nor people, its probably just because they are well socialised though. Hope that helps a little. Anything else, just ask.
Thank you Borderdawn for the information. I think I am actually going to "play safe" and stick with the breeds I know and love. Borders are very attractive looking little dogs and I have come across some very nice ones, but I think my true loyalty lies with the gundog and collie breeds. Its just that I am getting a bit older now for the rigours attached to these breeds as puppies and young dogs. Mind you my son said the other day "I am sure you have another flatcoat in you". I hope he is right. Regards Rena
ive had 2 my first died of pyrometra aged 2 and then we got lola she has cecs.think ive just been unlucky with mine lol, i dog sit another one for a friend and weve loads in my village. all can bark for england!although i love them i think im not a right owner for a terrier( although i will never re-home lola!!) ive gort springers and a cross weim springer and i would stick to the springer breed next time . i have seen some lovely borders and both mine have been fantastic with my kids and everyone elses and very easy to house train
Tilly does obedience! And I have seen a few pure borders work at quite a good level. Maybe they are the exceptions though!
Tilly the Terrier - we also have a Border Terrier cross Parson. Its a lovely mix of breeds...though two of this litter have already been through rescue (including our boy - so sort of grateful otherwise we wouldn't have him). The 'breeders' were going to repeat the breeding because the pups sold so well
Oh dear, do you mean to tell me there's more ''tillys'' out there? Personally I thing its a great cross. She is a fantastic dog and not very terrier like. When people hear what she is, they are supprised. Think everyone assumes they will be awful, yappy dogs but she's a star. Would love to see picks of your boy to compare!!
