Border Terrier Harness: What harness is the best fit for you

Border Terrier Harness: What harness is the best fit for you

History of the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is a small, energetic, and charming breed that has a rich history dating back several centuries. Originating from the border region between England and Scotland, the Border Terrier was primarily bred for its outstanding hunting abilities.

The exact origins of the Border Terrier are somewhat unclear, but it is believed that the breed descended from a mix of various Terrier breeds that were common in the border region during the 18th and 19th centuries. These Terriers were valued for their ability to work in harsh conditions, including rugged terrains and harsh weather, making them ideal for assisting farmers and shepherds in their daily tasks.

Initially, the Border Terrier was not recognized as a distinct breed. It was simply referred to as the "Coquetdale Terrier" or the "Redesdale Terrier," named after the specific regions in Northumberland where they were commonly found. These early terriers were highly versatile, used for hunting foxes, rats, and other vermin that posed a threat to the farmers' livestock.

It wasn't until the late 19th century that the Border Terrier began to gain recognition as a separate breed. In 1880, the Border Terrier Club was established in England, and efforts were made to establish a breed standard. The breed standard helped define the desirable characteristics, appearance, and temperament of the Border Terrier, ensuring consistency in breeding and maintaining the breed's unique qualities.

During the early 20th century, the popularity of the Border Terrier continued to grow, both in the United Kingdom and abroad. Their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly nature made them excellent companions and family pets. Additionally, their small size and agile nature made them well-suited for various canine sports and activities, including agility trials and earth dog trials. In 1920, the Border Terrier was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom. Since then, the breed has gained a dedicated following and has become a beloved companion for many families around the world. 

Today, the Border Terrier remains true to its roots as a working Terrier. While they may not be as commonly used for hunting purposes as they once were, they still possess a strong prey drive and enjoy activities that stimulate their instincts, such as scent work and interactive play. Their compact size, intelligence, and affectionate nature make them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.

Benefits of the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is a small, energetic, and intelligent breed that brings numerous benefits to its owners. Whether you are considering getting a Border Terrier or already have one, here are some key benefits of this lovable canine companion.

1. Size and Adaptability: 

One of the major benefits of the Border Terrier is its size. They are small dogs, typically weighing between 11-16 pounds (5-7 kg). This makes them a great choice for individuals or families living in houses with limited space. Their compact size also means they can easily accompany you on trips or adventures, making them a highly adaptable breed.

2. Low Maintenance: 

Border Terriers have a weather-resistant double coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping to remove dead hair are usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. Additionally, they are not excessive shedders, which is a huge advantage for those who prefer a cleaner home environment.

3. Friendly and Affectionate: 

Border Terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being part of a family. This breed thrives on human companionship and will often seek out opportunities to cuddle and play. Their loving personality makes them excellent companions for individuals of all ages, including children.

4. Intelligent and Trainable: 

Border Terriers are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes training them a breeze. They excel in obedience training and are quick learners. With consistent positive reinforcement techniques, they can easily master commands and tricks. Their intelligence and willingness to learn also make them suitable for various dog sports and activities.

5. Good with Other Pets: 

Border Terriers generally get along well with other animals, including cats and other dogs. With proper socialisation from an early age, they can become great companions for your existing pets. However, it is important to introduce them to new animals gradually and under controlled circumstances to ensure a harmonious relationship.

6. Active and Energetic: 

If you lead an active lifestyle, the Border Terrier will be the perfect exercise buddy. Despite their small size, they have a high energy level and require daily exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive toys will help prevent boredom and ensure a happy and healthy dog.

7. Longevity: 

Border Terriers are generally a healthy and robust breed. With proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a balanced diet, they can live a long and happy life. On average, they have a lifespan of 12-15 years, which gives you many years to create lasting memories with your furry friend.

The Border Terrier offers a multitude of benefits that make it a popular choice for dog lovers. From their small size and adaptability to their friendly nature and trainability, this breed has a lot to offer. 

So, if you are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion who will bring joy and happiness to your life, the Border Terrier might just be the perfect fit for you!

Why a Harness is Good for Border Terrier

If you own a Border Terrier, you know that these small and energetic dogs are full of personality and love to explore. When it comes to taking them for walks or adventures, using a harness instead of a collar can provide numerous benefits for both you and your canine companion. 

Here are the reasons why a harness is good for Border Terriers.

1. Comfort and Safety: 

Border Terriers have a strong prey drive and are prone to pulling on their leash when they spot something exciting. Unlike collars that put pressure on their necks, a well designed harness distributes the force across their chest and shoulders, reducing the risk of injury. It ensures that your dog feels comfortable during walks and prevents any strain on their delicate neck area.

2. Control and Better Handling: 

Border Terriers are known for their independent nature, which can make it challenging to control them on a regular collar. With a harness, you gain better control over your dog's movements, making it easier to guide them during walks or training sessions. It also gives you the ability to lift or assist them when necessary without causing any discomfort.

3. Reduced Risk of Escaping: 

Border Terriers are natural escape artists due to their high energy levels and curiosity. A properly fitted harness provides a secure and snug fit, reducing the chances of your furry friend slipping out of it. This is especially important when walking in busy areas or near roads, as it ensures their safety and prevents them from running off unexpectedly.

4. Minimised Strain on the Neck: 

Border Terriers are prone to certain health issues like tracheal collapse or collapsed windpipe. These conditions can be aggravated by the pressure exerted on their necks when wearing a collar and pulling on the leash. By using a harness, you eliminate this risk and provide a more comfortable experience for your furry friend.

5. Versatility and Functionality: 

Border Terriers love to explore different terrains, and a harness allows you to accommodate their adventurous spirit. Look for a harness that is adjustable, durable, and suitable for outdoor activities. Some harnesses even come with additional features like reflective strips for nighttime visibility,

Using a harness for your Border Terrier offers numerous advantages. It prioritises their comfort, safety, and control while minimising strain on their delicate neck area. 

Make sure to consider their size and weight to ensure the perfect fit. Measure your Border Terrier's girth (around the widest part of their chest) and refer to the sizing calculator on our website, https://perfect-fit-dog-harness.com/PFSizing/, to find the most suitable size.

By investing in a well-fitted and functional harness, you can ensure enjoyable walks and adventures with your Border Terrier!

Why a PerfectFit Harness is the best choice

The PerfectFit Harness has a modular design to fit any dog type including a Border Terrier. Our harness has a large range of sizes and fits to choose from, a massive benefit of our harness is that it is comfy and calming for your dog ensuring that both you and your furry friend are content on your walks. You can purchase our harness in 3 sections, providing your dog with the perfect fit! We know how worrying it can be when your dog is pulling on their lead and their harness or collar is pulling on their neck, however, our harness is designed with a Y-shaped front to avoid the soft tissues of the throat and neck. This will reduce the risk of any injury caused by the pulling. Our harness isn't just safer, it is also stylish. We offer a large range of colours and as you can remove and replace each piece you can have multiple different harness colours! We are the PerfectFit for you!