r In a nutshell: A small dog with a large dog's attitude.

Also known as: Borders

Description: Essentially an attractive working terrier, capable of following a horse and combining activity with gameness. Head like that of an otter, broad in skull with short strong muzzle. Body deep, narrow, fairly long and capable of being spanned behind the withers. Colours –red, wheaten, grizzle & tan, blue & tan. Tail moderately short and carrot-shaped The border is an undocked breed.

Temperament:  A loyal, active and game dog. Not as hot headed as other terrier breeds (as the border was and still is required to live with foxhound packs). He still retains a very strong hunting instinct, something which has sadly been bred out of other terrier breeds. Not a quarelsome dog yet can take care of himself if pushed.

Advantages as an agility dog:

• Learns what is wanted quickly

• Longer on the leg than other Mini breeds

• Works close so is good at pull-throughs!

• Can compete into their teen years

• Food orientated

• Rarely grow over 15 inches.

• Will play up to a crowd.

• If something more interesting appears, the border may join them.

• Tend to be vocal whilst working. You tend to try to shout louder than them. Sometimes commands are not heard, often resulting in wrong courses being taken.

• Beware - the hunting instinct can kick in usually when you're having the best round of the season!

Rating out of ten: 9/10 - only when in working mode!

Examples of dogs that have done well in Agility:  

All these have appeared at Crufts

1. Teasel Aslacton (multi agility cc winner) - Chris Smith

2. Kelgram My Peat & Bouncing Bertie - Keith Leslie

3. Wotta Sauce

4. Bridesdale Lady (Agility RCC winner at over 10 years) - Sharon Brewster

5. Pitsligo Polorizer

6. Foxallers Wotta Cracker

7. Foxy Blue Magic

8. Blushing Bridesmaid

Also Penhalwyn Envy & Maiden Wales for Dowgr - Trudi Baird.

What's it like to live with as a pet: Undemanding, sensitive and loyal, Borders are easy around the house. They like to be near you and even when apparently oblivious of what is going on, they will be keeping an eye on you.

Be sure to buy from a reputable breeder and always see pup with it’s dam. Border Terriers have seen an explosion in registrations. Guard yourself against dodgy breeders. Find a good grooming parlor who will hand strip his coat or get the breeder to teach you. Beware of dog thieves. Numerous Borders have been stolen from gardens and locked cars. This is probably due to the demand for the breed.

The border is cat-like in that they will perch on the back of the sofa or on the stairs and watch the world go by. You need a high fence around the garden, preferably one they can’t get their feet into as they have been known to climb human like!

The border needs waist watching as they are very clever at getting you to give them a piece of whatever you're eating. It’s that cheeky otter-like stare.

The border also likes to sing. They will start off any other dogs you have. This is thought to have originated from living with fox hound packs. your BT's coat will need hand stripping twice a year to keep it in good condition, don’t be tempted to have his coat clipped.

Would you buy another one for agility?  I already have.