I posed a question on social media the other day asking if you could guess the breed of dog from the palette I was mixing? Well the answer was a Border Terrier, not just one, but two commissions which I have just finished. Lovely little chaps Berry and Twiglet, one for a birthday present down in Kent and the other to partner a cat I painted in Twickenham.
While the Border Terrier wasn’t recognised as a breed until the early 1900s, they had been a well-known and much-admired type of terrier working in the border regions since the 17th century. They developed as a hardy, workmanlike, friendly little dog who would go out with hounds – and both be fast and fit enough to be able to keep up but also to squeeze into small spaces to chase out a hiding fox. Their coat is dense and weatherproof plus they have fairly loose-fitting, thick skin to protect them from bites and injury.
Border Terriers are know for being affectionate and fun-loving. They are brave, adaptable and good with people, especially with children. Generally easy-going, they have an independent nature and like to make their own decisions. Great for active owners who loves the ‘big dog in a small body’ attitude of a terrier but who prefers a softer, less feisty and more social version.
It is always a pleasure to paint this breed of dog, with their flecked coats of sandy colours and always an alert, devlish glint in their eyes. No wonder they are the favourite of celebrities such as singer Janet Street Porter, David Walliams, Andy Murray and Glenn Close.
