Of the huge number of dogs the hero for the article, we chose a border terrier - an old hunting breed that is used for hunting foxes. In addition, this dog is quite fun and cheerful, so it is perfect for the role of a pet.
From the history of the breed
The first mention of the Border Terrier breed dates back to 1880, but officially the Kennel Kennel Club officially recognized the breed only in 1920.
The homeland of these animals is the area between Scotland and England. Dogs of this breed have always been kept by farmers, hunters and shepherds. The Border Terrier feels great in a cold and humid climate due to its coat: the outer hair has water repellent properties, and the soft and very thick undercoat perfectly warms the animal.
More recently, this breed was known only to a narrow circle of specialists and hunters in Britain. At home, the breed is actively developing: they are the most common pets in England. In Holland, these dogs live even with members of the royal family.
The Border Terrier was first brought to Russia in 1998 by the breeders I. Ippolitov and I. Alexandrova. At various competitions and exhibitions, dogs have proven themselves perfectly.
Breed description
This is perhaps one of the smallest working terriers. Growth at the withers - 28 cm, weight - 5-7 kg. Dogs are used for hunting foxes and rodents. The Border Terrier is very hardy and has an excellent reaction.
The head is a bit like the head of an otter. The skull is quite wide. The muzzle is short, with developed and strong jaws. The nose is usually black.
The ears are small, hanging in the shape of the letter V. The neck is not too long. The limbs are straight. The body is long and narrow, the lower back is well developed.
The tail is short, thick at the base. The dog holds him high above his back.
The color is yellow, dark red, gray with a tan tan, red with a gray tan.
Character
The Border Terrier, whose photo is not too often seen in Russian cynological publications, the dog is very agile, courageous, ruthless in hunting, and at home affectionate and very devoted to its owner. She is very attached to children, very fond of long walks and trips. His character is simply amazing, but not everyone can understand him. Borders cannot be called a dog with a "wide open soul." It will be fully revealed only to a caring and loving owner.
Breed features
The creators of the breed did not aim to get a sample of exhibition aesthetics, so the border terrier has a somewhat nondescript appearance. However, the first not too positive impression changes as soon as a person looks into his smart and funny eyes. When you look at his touching face, a smile involuntarily appears on his face.
After a short conversation with this funny doggie, it becomes clear that he has a playful, but at the same time balanced character. Border Terrier treats dogs of other breeds peacefully. They are very curious and interested in everything that surrounds them. A dog with a sense of self-esteem, and even some severity (which manifests itself exclusively on the hunt) has a good sense of humor. Often you can see the border, who smiles, baring his teeth. At the same time, his face expresses embarrassment or pleasure.
Health
In general, it is a very healthy breed. The life expectancy of a border terrier is 12-15 years. Most often, the dog may show displacement of the hip joint and heart disease, and there are also cases of displacement of the knee joint. In order not to miss the onset of the disease, a regular examination of the joints and heart of the animal is necessary.
Using a dog of this breed
In foreign medical institutions, the Border Terrier is often used as a "dog for therapy." They, together with their owners, come to hospitals and nursing homes. For many, they become very welcome visitors. In the UK, the Border Terrier undergoes a series of tests that confirm that he is friendly and reliable, and only after that the dog becomes a "therapist".
Border Terrier Rescue
This is another important work in which these dogs showed themselves to be true professionals. Dogs on the trail are looking for dead or lost people in areas of any complexity. Agree, a very important and difficult job.
Border Terrier Puppies
These babies are quite expensive in Russia. Today, not many breeders are still breeding these animals. However, we do not recommend buying a puppy from random people. It is more advisable to find a nursery and buy an animal in it. The Border Terrier, the price of which ranges from 20 to 50 thousand rubles, will have all the necessary documents and vaccinations appropriate for the age of the puppy.
Future owners should be aware that puppies of this breed need a confident and consistent upbringing. Kids are very smart, easy to learn.
What are the owners talking about
The Border Terrier reviews (albeit a few) receive only laudatory. It becomes obvious that this animal is benevolent and friendly. It is very important for hunters that their pet is hardy and courageous. Parents are happy that they were able to find the children a real good and cheerful friend.
Many owners are very pleased that the pet does not require complicated care. They feel great both in a private house and in a city apartment. True, some say that it’s not always possible to take long walks, but the playful border terrier, whose photo you see in this article, really needs them.