Border terrier at a glance
| Adult weight | 5 to 7kg |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Typical lifespan | About 14 years |
| Grooming | Brushing at home; no regular groomer |
| Health | Fewer breed problems than most |
What a border terrier costs
| First yearIncluding a £1,000 puppy, kit, vaccinations, spaying and training | £2,869 |
|---|---|
| Each year after | £1,084 |
| A month, after year one | £90 |
| Over about 14 years | £16,961 |
| With a dog sitter 3 days a weekAt £90 a week | +£4,680 a year |
These assume a girl puppy, about £17 a month of mid-range dry food for a 6kg adult, a week of kennels a year and no daycare. The calculator above shows every line.
Health problems to know about
Border terriers are known to be prone to:
- A seizure-like condition (canine epileptoid cramping syndrome)
- Hip problems
- Eye problems
Ask the breeder for health test results for both parents. Not every border terrier will have these problems, but they’re why insurance matters: a long-term condition can cost hundreds or thousands of pounds a year.
Insuring a border terrier?
Look for lifetime cover with at least £4,000 a year for vet fees, and check what it says about a seizure-like condition.
Compare dog insuranceWe may be paid if you use this link. It never changes our sums.
Next steps
- Check which insurance a border terrier needs
- See how big your border terrier puppy will get
- Work out how much to feed a border terrier puppy
- Check a border terrier breeder before you pay a deposit
Questions
How much does a border terrier cost a month?
About £90 a month after the first year, for insurance, food, flea treatment, grooming, boosters and small vet bills. Daycare or a dog sitter is extra.
How much does a border terrier cost in the first year?
About £2,869, including a £1,000 puppy price, kit, vaccinations, spaying, training, insurance and food. Breeders’ prices vary a lot, so put in yours.
How much is insurance for a border terrier?
Our starting figure is £28 a month for lifetime cover for a young border terrier, but quotes vary with where you live and the policy. Look for a vet fee limit of at least £4,000 a year.
How long do border terriers live?
About 14 years on average.
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