Border Collie

Overview

Overview of Border Collie

If you want a dog that consistently gets ranked number 1 for being the most intelligent breed in the world, then you’ll love a Border Collie puppy. Chaser the famed "smartest dog in the world" was a Border Collie who learned more than 1000 words, including nouns and proper names! The Border Collie's name comes from the Border between England and Scotland where shepherds carefully bred them over the course of many generations to create an independent, problem-solving herding marvel. Border Collie puppies are born with a larger heart than any other breed, so they were built for speed and endurance, and can move quickly in a stalking position. These dogs can herd any kind of flock you throw at them: cattle, ducks, goats, pigs, cattle, ostrich but they are especially talented at herding sheep because of their subtle herding techniques that don't scare the flock. The Border Collie and the Australian Kelpie are the only two herding breeds that use their eyes to gently guide a flock whereas most other herding breeds will bark and move to control the herd. Many Border Collies are still happily herding on ranches, in competition as well as for fun! Anyone who works with herding Border Collies does not necessarily conform to the same physical standards as the AKC; they breed for herding ability more so than for a specific color, pattern, or height.

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Border Collie

Destructive Behavior in dogs:

Under-stimulated Collies are likely to act out and may exhibit destructive behavior such as chewing, biting, barking, excessive digging, and aggression.

Recommendations for Destructive Behavior in dogs in Border Collie Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Border Collie

Hip Dysplasia in dogs:

Is a genetic condition where the ball and socket (of the hip) do not develop properly and may rub together and cause friction. This condition may cause mobility issues down the line.

Recommendations for Hip Dysplasia in dogs in Border Collie Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Border Collie

Epilepsy in dogs:

Is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures. It may be more prevalent in breeds such as the Border Collie, so there are likely genetic factors involved.

Recommendations for Epilepsy in dogs in Border Collie Dogs:

Personality

Border Collies are extremely intelligent, athletic, and loyal dogs that need more than a daily walk or run; they require mental stimulation. Keep in mind that your Border Collie is wired to herd so if they are not able to do this, at the very least, they should be enrolled in agility, lure coursing, or a dog sport to satiate their desire to problem solve. They are happiest when they have a job to do! They make great additions to any family as long as they get their exercise needs met, but keep in mind that they may try to herd anything that moves, including small children (especially if bored). Border Collies come in a range of colors and can weigh up to 55 lbs. Their coat should be groomed 3 times a week to remove dead hairs and they generally shed their entire coat twice a year.