Rather than fighting it, give your Border Terrier a place of his own to dig or put his digging drive to work with fun games. Border Terriers do not need to be bathed often — only when they’ve gotten into something gross and it’s really necessary. Their coat naturally repels dirt and, with weekly brushing and a wipe-down with a damp cloth when needed, it should stay fairly clean. When you do bathe him, use a shampoo made for the rough terrier coat to help maintain its texture. If you don’t mind the scruffy look, you can just leave the coat as is, with no stripping or clipping, but the coat may shed more. For easier care, you can clipper the coat, but the texture and color will become softer and lighter and the coat won’t be weather resistant.
Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they’re free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies and who breeds for sound temperaments. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Border Terriers have a high prey drive and will chase, attack, and even kill neighborhood cats, squirrels or other small animals. They’ll also go after small pets such as rabbits, mice, or gerbils. Because of their tendency to chase, make sure your yard is securely fenced, and don’t let your Border off leash in an unfenced area. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
I am Kraig Wharton, a wildlife conservationist and a television personality. I am 30 years old. I was born and raised in the small town of Marion, Alabama. I have always had a love and respect for nature, which led me to pursue a career in wildlife conservation.
I have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel all over the world, working with some of the most endangered species on the planet. My work has taken me to some of the most remote and dangerous places on earth, including war-torn countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan.
I am passionate about educating people about the importance of conserving our natural resources, and I am committed to doing whatever it takes to protect our planet for future generations.