Border Terrier Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a small, tough, and unpretentious working terrier bred in the hills between England and Scotland to bolt foxes and keep up with mounted hunts. Recognizable by its distinctive otter-shaped head, wiry weatherproof coat, and racy, long-legged build, it is more even-tempered and affectionate than most terriers while retaining plenty of grit and drive. Cheerful, hardy, and adaptable, it makes an excellent family companion that is good with children and, unusually for a terrier, often tolerant of other dogs. It is game and energetic, with a strong prey drive and love of digging, so it needs daily exercise, secure fencing, and engaging training.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsHigher than most
Energy levelHigher than most
TrainabilityHigher than most
Grooming effortTypical
SheddingLower than most
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitTypical
Good with childrenDefining trait
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersHigher than most
2 active listings
Search all puppies →
Rikki Smalls, Puppy Border Terrier with Shih Tzu
male8 molight brown, black, white
dabayBoo235
$400View details →
Where this breed shines
- Affectionate, good-natured, and great with children
- More trainable and social than most terriers
- Hardy, adaptable, and generally healthy
- Low-shedding wiry coat with hand-stripping
Things to consider
- Strong prey drive; will chase and dig
- Needs secure fencing and reliable leash control
- Coat benefits from periodic hand-stripping
- Energetic; requires daily exercise and stimulation
History
The Border Terrier originated in the border country of northern England and southern Scotland, developed by farmers and fox hunters who needed a small dog agile enough to follow a horse yet compact enough to go to ground after foxes. It shares roots with the Dandie Dinmont and Bedlington Terriers. Long a working farm dog, it was recognized by The Kennel Club in 1920 and by the AKC in 1930. It remains popular as both a companion and a working terrier.
Temperament
Affectionate, even-tempered, and game, the Border Terrier is one of the friendliest terriers, bonding warmly with its family and getting on well with children. It is intelligent, biddable, and more trainable than many terriers, though it retains an independent streak. Its strong prey drive means it will chase small animals and enjoys digging. Generally sociable with other dogs, it is alert but not typically aggressive.
Questions to ask a Border Terrier breeder
- Are the parents tested for CECS (Spike's disease) and heart conditions?
- Have hips and eyes been screened?
- How are puppies socialized to family life?
- What is the temperament and drive of the parents?
Health considerations to discuss
Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome (CECS). A breed-associated paroxysmal disorder; discuss family history with the breeder.
Hip dysplasia. Ask for hip evaluations though generally a sound breed.
Heart murmurs. Request cardiac screening in the parent dogs.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Border Terrier litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Border Terrier puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Border Terrier listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Border Terrier puppies cost?
Listed puppies currently range from $400 to $700. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Border Terrier breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.