Border Terrier vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison

As a working dog, the Border Terrier comes from the border country between England and Scotland. To be more specific, the dog originates from the rough hill country in the areas on both sides of the border between England and Scotland – an area known as 'The Border Country'. The breed was developed by the farmers, using the Terriers to help contain the fox population.

It is believed that they are related to other kinds of terriers which also came from this region such as the Bedlington- and Dandie Dinmont Terriers. The first Border Terrier was registered in 1913 with the British Kennel Club. Later, the Border Terrier Club was also formed. A club for these dogs was also registered in the United States in 1930.

Alaskan Husky is created to be a working dog who can do many different jobs like hauling logs, transport, supplies delivery, racing dogs, etc. Mushers created this breed. Alaskan Husky is created as a mix of Inuit dog, Siberian Husky, Greyhound and German pointers, and it is very difficult to find pure breed Alaskan Husky, and they are not recognized by any Kennel club.

The Border Terrier is a small to medium sized dog, weighing roughly between 5- and 7kg and standing at anything between 28 and 40cm in height. With his dark brown eyes and keen, alert expression, and with ears dropping forward, people describe the head as being like that of an otter. He is a courageous worker and a loyal companion but some people may not take kindly to him wanting to dig under-, or climb over barriers to get out to follow a scent or to go exploring.

The Border Terrier is a rough coated dogs of medium size with narrow build. The dog’s height is slightly greater than the dog’s length. The coat can be tan and black or dark grey. Sometimes the coat is described as grizzle - dark tipped hairs which give an overlay of color to the tan or red coat. You can also possibly find some white on the muzzle or chest. He has a double coat, with the outer coat being short, dense and wiry. The tail is of medium length and the ears drop forward toward their cheeks.

Alaskan Husky average weight depends from dog to dog, but on average male weights 21-25kg, while their height is moderate size. Females are slightly smaller than males, and they can weight 17-19kg.

A lifespan of Alaskan Husky depends, again, from dog to dog, but it is 10-15 years. Of course, if you are taking care of your dog, they can live much longer.

Litter Size of average female is 4-10 puppies.

A Border Terrier is a dog that has to be part of the family. You can’t just stick him in your back yard as he will just pine away with unhappiness. Boredom and loneliness will cause him to bark and he has a loud bark. He’ll become destructive – characteristics that aren’t his fault because he didn’t ask to be bought and just stuck away.

Train and socialize your Border Terrier so that he becomes the great dog he is intended to be. He gets on well will children who have been taught to be kind to animals and he will get along with other pets in the home. The Border Terrier is an affectionate, sensitive dog and once trained he is willing to obey your commands.

The Border Terrier isn’t the greatest guard dog but is best known for his loving, devoted and loyal nature. He loves his food, and if you feed him well, provide him with a warm, dry place to sleep and provide him with lots of attention and exercise, you’ll have the most devoted and loving friend for life.

Alaskan Husky is the best dog for the active people or families. They are bred to be working dogs. This breed is not created for it looks or pedigree, but this breed is bred purely to help with various tasks. They love being around the family, and they are very happy and cheerful. Alaskan Husky is not good watchdogs because they love everyone, including strangers. They are highly intelligent breed, but it can be tricky to train them sometimes. You must be a leader who makes decisions because if you are not confident, they will not see the reason for listening to you. The best way of training your dog would be with patience and firm, decisive manner. The old-fashioned way of training that includes punishment is not recommendable. They do not respond well to that. Training with awards is the best way to teach your dog. Alaskan Husky is a very active dog, so they are not very good for apartments. Although, you can have them in apartments but only if they have active walks and exercises. They love jogging, and they can be excellent buddies in any activity. They will love all the animals but it is important for them to socialize from the early age.

Border Terriers are a healthy breed and with good food and plenty of love and attention, they can reach 14 years of age. It is to be noted with this dog breed that he doesn’t show signs of pain or sickness easily so you want to watch him closely.

Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome - This is a disease which can be evident from 7 months of age already. The disease was once known as Spike's Disease, and its an hereditary disease of Border Terrier dogs. The cause of the disease is unknown but it is similar to canine epilepsy. It is thought that a contributing factor can be gluten, so a gluten-free diet will be recommended.

Heart defects can also affect Border Terriers, one of which is pulmonic stenosis. This is a narrowing of the valve which separates the right chamber of the heart from the lungs. It can ultimately lead to arrhythmia to congestive heart failure. He’ll have difficulty with breathing, suffer from abdominal distension and won’t be able to exercise properly.

This breed has no any specific health issues. However, as any breed they can develop some issues that are related to genetics. It is very important to discuss with owners that you are getting the dog from, and if they are not ready to show medical records or proofs that dogs are healthy then you should be extra careful. If you do not have a lot of experience in getting a puppy or an adult dog, you should bring someone who has more experience. Again, this breed is very healthy and if you give them adequate caring with regular vet checks you will have a healthy and a happy dog for a long time.

Grooming

Because the topcoat of the Border Terrier is dense and harsh with a thick undercoat, he will require moderate grooming. He doesn’t shed too much. Brush your Border Terrier twice a week to remove dead hair and keep your dog’s coat healthy. As part of his grooming, keep his nails clipped as well as his teeth checked and brushed at least twice a week. Make use of specialized dog toothpaste and brush.

Diet

The Border Terrier can quickly put on weight so it is important to feed him according to the instructions on the packaging if you’re going to be feeding him with commercially manufactured dog food. Make sure its a quality brand and one which caters for his energy requirements.Dogs are individuals, and they don’t all eat the same amount. As a responsible dog owner, it is up to you to monitor your pet and understand his unique requirements.

Feeding the Alaskan Husky

Feeding Alaskan Husky, or basically any other dog depends on how active your dog is, and how big it is. Basically, if it is big and very active you will have to give it more food. On average, Alaskan Husky can eat 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food and that should be enough to keep them well-fed and healthy. You can always add vegetables, oil or fruits in their meal, but first, consult which additional food is the best for your dog. Carrots, broccoli, apples are always a good treat for any pet.

Feeding the puppy

Puppies eat more than an adult dog, so it would be perfect if you can divide small portions of food 3-5 times per day. It will help them develop into perfectly healthy adult dogs.

Grooming the Alaskan Husky

They are not very difficult to groom. Overall, Alaskan Husky does not need any special care, except twice a year during shed season. Then you have to brush them with a metal comb every day, but overall, occasional brushing and bathing when it is necessary is more than enough to have a healthy and perfectly groomed pet.