How Much Does a Border Terrier Cost in Australia?
Purchase Price
$1,500 – $3,500
Annual Food Cost
~$720
Lifespan
12–15 years
Size
small (5–7kg)
Calculate Your Border Terrier Costs
Purchase Price
Purchasing a Border Terrier from a registered breeder in Australia typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500. Adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation is significantly cheaper, usually between $250 and $500, and often includes desexing, microchipping, and initial vaccinations.
Ongoing Costs
Border Terriers are generally a robust, long-lived breed with relatively low ownership costs. Their wiry coat needs professional hand-stripping every 8 weeks ($50-$80). Epilepsy is a notable breed-specific concern, with lifelong medication costing $500-$3,000 per year. Heart murmurs should be screened for by the breeder. They are one of the more affordable small breeds to insure in Australia.
Common Health Issues
Typical treatment: $1,500 – $6,000
Typical treatment: $500 – $3,000
Typical treatment: $2,000 – $5,000
Typical treatment: $2,500 – $6,000
Insurance
Pet insurance for a Border Terrier in Australia typically costs between $30 and $65 per month.
Tips to Save Money
- ✓Consider adopting from a shelter — you'll save on purchase price and often get vaccinations and desexing included.
- ✓Buy food in bulk or subscribe to regular deliveries for discounts at stores like Pet Circle.
- ✓Learn basic grooming between professional sessions to extend the time between visits.
- ✓Compare pet insurance policies annually — premiums can vary significantly between providers.