Breed group: Herding

Weight: 30-45 lbs

Height: male: 20-23, female: 18-21 inches

Overview

The Border Collie is originally from Northumberland where they have first been bred during the 19th century. Border Collies are exceptional herders and this tough and tireless sheepdog is capable of mastering any kind of herd. Many believe that the Border Collie has an eye that can mesmerize cattle. They crouch down and hypnotize the animals with their intense gaze. Being one of the most trainable breeds, the Border Collie also does very well as a narcotics and bomb detection dog. They also perform well in obedience, Frisbee trials, police work, search and rescue and fly ball.

Temperament

Border Collies are extremely intelligent and responsive dogs. They perform very well in obedience, agility and Frisbee trails. They flourish on admiration, are responsive and very trainable. This breed is full of life with immense endurance. Provided it gets sufficient activity to keep it occupied and ample exercise, Border Collies will get along happily with other dogs and children provided they get enough exercise. They may however be aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex, and should also not be left alone with non-canine animals. It is important to socialise the Border Collie enough when young so that they are not shy when older. These dogs require lots of attention, stimulation and exercise to be happy. The Border Collie lives for serving their owners' day in and day out, but will not be ideal for those with not enough time to spend with their animals. These dogs are too bright to sit around the house with no job.

Care

Border Collie will need to be combed and brushed regularly to make sure their coats are in a good condition. However, during shedding seasons extra care is required. They should only be bathed or dry shampooed when it is deemed necessary. It is also advised that their ears and coats are checked for ticks on a regular basis. The Border Collie is an average shedding breed.

Training

Early socialisation and obedience training is strongly recommended for this breed. The Border Collie is very trainable, and will do best in a training environment with enough praise, consistency, fairness and respect. Seeing that this is a very sensitive dog, they should never be treated in a cruel or unkind manner. These dogs are exceptionally talented in herding, police work, competitive obedience, search and rescue, Frisbee trials, and fly ball. Border Collies are also used effectively as rehabilitation dogs and guide dogs for people that are blind.

Health problems

In generally the Border Collie is a very tough breed, but they do have some medical conditions potential owners should be aware of such as hip dysplasia that can cause mild to severe lameness, osteochondritis dissecans which is a degenerative disease of the joints, progressive retinal, epilepsy and deafness.