10/27/2025
The Border Terrier is one of several working terrier breeds to emerge along the borders of England and Scotland where terriers have been used to hunt fox, otter, and vermin for centuries. They have a distinct otter-like head with a natural wiry coat that allows them to work in rough fields. Border Terriers are affectionate, easily trained, and should work and live peacefully with other dogs.
Are you interested in this breed? The OFA, working with the Border Terrier Club of America, recommends the following basic health screening tests for all breeding stock:
- ACVO Eye Exam (each year until age 8 years)
- Patellar Luxation
- Hip Dysplasia (OFA, PennHip (Minimum of 12m), or BVA)
- Cardiac (Basic, congenital, or advanced via a cardiologist)
- Spongiform Leukoencephalomyelopathy
Dogs meeting these basic health screening requirements are issued Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) numbers. For potential puppy buyers, CHIC certification is a good indicator the breeder responsibly factors good health into their selection criteria.
For more information about the Border Terrier, please visit the parent club website: https://btcoa.org/
For more information about the CHIC program, check out the OFA: https://ofa.org/chic-programs/