|
First Impressions
This is a medium sized working dog that is slightly longer than it is tall.
The History Of The Border Collie
The Border Collie originated in the county of Northumberland on the Scottish / English border during the 1700's. The early history of the Border Collie is obscure. It was certainly around in its present form by the 18th century. This is a breed that is still primarily a working dog. It was kept as a pet in Victorian England. Most of the bloodlines however, were selected for herding abilities and intelligence rather than appearance.
In Australia and New Zealand it reigns supreme as a sheep dog. In 1995 it was accepted for registry in the American Kennel Club stud books.
Description Of The Border Collie
The long tail is carried low and not altered. Ears are unaltered and erect of nearly erect.
Dogs average 19 - 22 inches tall at the shoulder, while bitches are somewhat smaller at 18 - 21 inches. Dogs weigh 30 - 45 pounds and bitches 27 - 42 pounds.
Coat & Grooming
The medium length, water resistant, double coat is longer around the neck forming a ruff. Allowed colors are black, blue, chocolate, red, blue merle, black and tan, with or without white markings. White however, should not be the predominate color.
The Border Collie needs regular combing and brushing to keep the coat shining. Extra care is needed when the undercoat is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary to avoid removing the natural waterproofing qualities. Check the ears and coat regularly for ticks and burrs. This breed is an average shedder.
Temperament and Border Collie Training
Highly energetic with great stamina. Needs a lot of regular activity to keep them occupied and happy. They will get along quite happily with other dogs, and children. They can be aggressive to other same sex dogs and should not be trusted with small pet animals. Border Collie may be aggressive with other dogs of the same sex.
The Border Collie is an intelligent dog that excels at obedience, agility and Frisbee (TM) competitions. As with all dogs, Border Collie training should be started as a puppy. To prevent behavioral problems later in life, training should follow a recognized training regime.
Either enroll in a certified local dog training school or read this.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a Border Collie is around 12-15 years.
They are generally a strong and healthy breed, but some are prone to hip dysplasia, PRA and Collie Eye Anomaly... an eye disease specific to Collies . Many Border Collies are allergic to fleas. Some reported cases of epilepsy and deafness.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
Being an outdoor working dog, the Border Collie is not suited to apartment life. They are active indoors and prefer a large piece of land. Will live in a kennel but not suited to a life chained up in a back yard all day.
They need more than just exercise. They thrive on working and love a challenge. Boundless energy and thrive on hard work and play. To watch them herding sheep is to see man and dog in perfect harmony.
For More Information on the Border Collie
To get more information, check out the Border Collie web site:
www.bordercolliesociety.com
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.bordercolliesociety.com/index_bcrescue.htm
Summary
Good with children although it will herd them and makes a great baby sitter. Tendency to chase cars, cyclists and even joggers. The working sheepdog of choice virtually everywhere.
:: Border Collie Training ::
|
