Border terriers were originally bred to be used in fox hunting so they have a very adventurous nature. They are also very intelligent and have the ability to be taught a number of tricks like jumping high, see-saw tricks and they are very fast runners. However you will also find that they will often go by their own thoughts due to their background of fox hunting, this can sometimes mean that they have a tenancy to run off into hedges and bushes to explore whilst you take them on runs. Due to their intuitive nature you might find they end up getting into a few small accidents, but its more than likely nothing major to worry about, but having an insurance policy behind them will mean you can get them down to the vets and sorted out if need be.

In general they are known for being a hard breed when it comes to illnesses; this means that they don’t tend to get ill. However some genetic illnesses have been linked to the breed such as; Legg-Calve Perthes syndrome, this is a disease that affects the structure and function of the tissues around their hip joint. It is either the result of loss or the growth of bone mass and it can collapse the joint, this can also then affect the blood supply.

The breed have also been linked with Canine Epileptoid cramping syndrome which is a lot like canine epilepsy, it is also known as Spikes disease due to the first dog to ever be diagnosed with the illness was a border terrier named Spike. The illness includes symptoms like; fits, staggering, cramp, trembling and dizziness, there isn’t currently any specific treatment for the disease. However you can prevent your border terrier from getting it/helping if they do have it, by controlling what they eat, some people believe a raw food and gluten free diet is the best, or having a dairy free diet is best. You can also use drugs like Diazepam help to minimising the plan of cramps.

There hunting nature can often been seen in them, this can sometimes mean that they prey on small animals like birds, or that they eat small toys; this can sometimes cause them indigestion problems that may require a visit to the vets. On the whole they are a fit and lively breed that enjoy running and playing, all you will need is a good insurance policy in case they do have an accident!