BORDER COLLIE

The very intelligent and trainable Border Collies also stand out in different dog sports activities, such as behavior training, fly ball, tracking, agility, and flying disc contests. They might make good family dogs if they get lots of mental and physical exercise.

History

The Border Collie’s ancestry and family history have been about since people in Britain first started using dogs to help manage herd or protect sheep. In Scotland and Britain, the herding dog became the most beneficial asset a shepherd could have, and the best working pet dogs were bred collectively.

Nowadays, an Edge Collie is known as the top sheep herding dog. The breed’s excellent herding capability directs several dog fanciers to recommend breeding Border Collies just to working, not conformation, specifications. The Border Collies were recognized by the American Kennel Club on Oct 1, 1995.

Physical Appearance

Border collies are medium-sized dogs. The head is similar to a collie, and the entire body is a bit longer than the dog’s height. The ears stand; however, the tips drop over, which gives them a dashing look. Males are about 19-22 inches tall and weigh about 35-45 lbs. Female Border collies stand 18-21 inches and weigh about thirty to forty lbs. However, the average lifespan of Border Collies is 10 – 17 years.

Temperament

In simple terms, the Border collies are a dynamo. The personality of a Border Collie is characteristically vigilant, hard-working, intelligent, and energetic. They are good learners and can learn easily.

This dog breed loves to be busy. They have to be busy, or they become bored, which results in irritating behavior, like digging, chasing cars, or barking. They aren’t a dog to lie calmly on the front porch when you drink a glass of soda and pop. Keep in mind; this breed was bred to work and run all the time herding-sheep.

Susceptible to Diseases

Border Collies are often healthy; however, like every dog breed, they are vulnerable to particular health problems.

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Collie Eye Defect
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Epileptic Seizure
  • Joint Disorder

Care and Grooming

There are two main types of coat in this dog breed. The rough coat has medium length and is feathered, although the smooth coat is rough. Both of them are thick, weather-resistant double coats. Grooming is similar for both: heading over your dog with a pin brush a couple of times weekly, more regularly if required, to help keep the coat free from tangles, mats, and dust. During shedding time, regular brushing is needed. Like all dog breeds, the Border Collie’s nails must be cut regularly.