INTRODUCTION

The Border Collie dog breed was developed to herd and control sheep in the rugged border country between Scotland and England. They are known for their intense stare, or “eye”, with which they control their flock. They are dogs with boundless energy, stamina and working drive, all of which make them a first-class herding dog; Border Collies are still used today to herd sheep on farms and ranches around the world. Although they are purebred dogs, you may find them in the care of shelters or rescue groups. Remember to adopt. Don’t go shopping if you want to take a dog home. Highly trainable and intelligent, Border Collies also excel at various dog sports, such as obedience, flyball, agility, tracking and flying disc competitions. They can be great family companions, as long as they get plenty – lots! – of physical and mental exercise. You’ll also need to be comfortable with a dog that can outwit you from time to time. If you want a loving dog with a brain that will keep you active and alert, this may be the breed for you.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Border Collie is very sensitive, often responding to the subtlest command and seems able to predict its owner’s desires in advance. The Border Collie is a workaholic that thrives on mental and physical stimulation, so it must have a positive way of directing its energy. Otherwise, it will make up its own games and can become a problem to live with. The Border Collie will herd anything that moves, including children, cars, people on bicycles, cats and squirrels. He can become a real problem if allowed to roam the neighborhood; it is essential that the yard be well fenced. Noisy play from small children can stimulate the Border Collie’s herding instinct and cause it to chew, nudge, and bark. To avoid shyness, the Border Collie should be well socialized. The Border Collie does not usually roam, but its curiosity and intelligence can lead it to become an escapist. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to make sure they are free of genetic diseases that can be passed on to puppies, and that they have a sound temperament.

HISTORY

The ancestors of the Border Collie have been around since humans in present-day Britain began using dogs to help guard and herd sheep. In the border country between Scotland and England, the herding dog became one of the most valuable assets a shepherd could have, and the best working dogs were bred from each other. The type varied, depending on the terrain or the work required in each region. These herding dogs became associated with their particular regions and became known as Welsh Sheepdogs, Northern Sheepdogs, Highland Collies and Scotch Collies. The Border Collie’s name reflects its partly Scottish heritage: the word collie, which refers to herding dogs, is derived from the Scottish dialect. In 1860, Scotch Sheep Dogs were exhibited at the second dog show held in England. Shortly afterwards, on a trip to Balmoral, Queen Victoria saw one of the dogs and became an enthusiast for the breed. R. J. Lloyd Price is credited with initiating sheepdog trials. In 1876, he took 100 wild Welsh sheep to Alexandra Palace in London for a demonstration. An article in the Livestock Journal described the amazement of onlookers at the sharpness of the dogs, whose hand signals and whistles were the only help from their handlers. Today, the Border Collie is recognised as the ultimate herding dog. The superior herding ability of the breed leads many fanciers to advocate breeding Border Collies only to working standards, not conformation. The Border Collie was recognised by the American Kennel Club on October 1, 1995.