Border Collie

Border Collie

Country of origin: Great Britain
Registries: AKC, UKC
Occupation: Sheep-herder,
performance sports
Size: 14–22kg (31–49lb), 46–54cm (18–21in),
also larger and smaller for working dogs
Longevity: 13 to 15 years
Exercise: Vigorous daily
exercise
Training: Easy; hard to keep
challenged
Grooming: Easy
Colors: Black and white, tricolour, sable,
blue merle, black, brown, red

This breed is consistently top dog in the “canine intelligence” stakes. In only three decades the hyper-alert and ever-vigilant Border Collie has evolved from being the eager, single-minded assistant of Welsh, Scottish, and English shepherds to the world’s most successful ever agility and obedience champion. It excels in these activities so greatly that there are some events in which Border Collies compete only with each other while all other breeds compete together at a lower standard. This is a supremely trainable working dog, bred for ability, not size or colour, and it forms a very close bond with its owner. However, this is not a breed for the novice owner. Their quick minds, deep-seated herding instinct, and need to release their high levels of energy make many of them uncomfortable in family environments, where they are highly prone to behaviour problems and obsessive or compulsive activities. Show lines are bred for show ring conformation and reduced energy levels.

History

Since the 1800s, there have been a handful of examples that we base Border Collie history on. The two most prominent examples are two studs by the names of Old Hemp and Winston Cap.
Old Hemp came first in 1893 and was bred to create the best working dog. He is believed to be the roots of the Border Collie breed in today’s modern times. To follow him was our second example, Winston Cap, in 1963. He was also used to breed and create the best Border Collies. Some went on compete and win in competitions.

Before that, in 1915, a man named James Reid coined the name “border collie” to separate similar sheepdogs in the International Sheep Dog Society. This all took place in the United Kingdom, so it is safe to say that this is where they began their journey as a breed.

They were loved by many, especially Queen Victoria. To this day, these dogs are still very popular. They received AKC recognition in 1995. They continued to be bred for workmanship and intelligence as they are great sheep dogs and companions.

Personality

You can’t be a dog lover and not know that Border Collies are among one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They were bred for their smarts and have stayed true to such a sentiment.

They are affectionate and playful. Whilst this makes for a great housepet, it must be noted that mature children are preferred with Border Collies. They love to herd so it’s merely natural that they would want to intervene with little people. They are somewhat hesitant when it comes to strangers though.

Considering their hardworking trait, they tend to have a lot of energy. They love to play and compete in dog sports. They are often tireless and very alert.

Traits

The most popular coat in a Border Collie that you will see is of black and white mixtures. They can come in any color combination or tricolor pattern known possible in dog breeds. Some colors seen are red, blue merle, and brindle. Their fur can be smooth or rough, but it is a double coat. Just as their coat can be a multitude of variations, their eye colors can also greatly vary.

They are of medium size but very muscular. They have to be from working out in fields all day, right? They are 18 to 22 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 26 to 44 lbs.

Handling

The key to handling a Border Collie is to train them properly and socialize them to become great adult canines. When training your collie, make sure you introduce a crate and be consistent. You most definitely don’t want to come home to see a disaster created by a lonely Border Collie.

They will need adequate mental stimulation and socialization so that they may be strong, confident beings. Puppy classes will be beneficial. It is also recommended to expose your Border Collie to multiple sights, smells, places, sounds, and people. Basically keep every one of their senses yearning for a new adventure. It will help them be well-rounded when they grow up.

Their rough double coats will need to be groomed regularly but not excessively. The more regular you brush their fur, the less likely they will get tangles and mats. They will have a large shedding in the proper season, but otherwise it will be a walk in the park to keep them well groomed.

Health

Border Collies can be just as susceptible to common disorders like hip dysplasia and sometimes epilepsy as other dog breeds. The leading causes of death for this particular breed are old age and cancer. Although that is unfortunate, there are minimal hereditary diseases. Thus the dog can live a long, happy life up to 14 years old.

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