Interested in a dog that can catch a Frisbee, play fetch and go on a run? Well, the border collie is that kind of dog. Known for their intelligence, the border collie loves praise and is one of the hardest working dogs. Border collies are leaders in competitive sports, excelling in agility, obedience, sheepdog trials and Frisbee.
The border collie, initially called the Scotch sheep dog, originated in Northumberland, along the border of Scotland and England. They were used by Vikings to herd reindeer. Many of the best border collies today can be traced to the late-1800s and a dog known as “Old Hemp,” whose style was different from that commonly seen during the era. Old Hemp worked far more quietly than the other sheepdogs of the time. The style was adopted and used by other breeders and trainers and became the most common style among border collies within a few generations.
Working border collies can take direction by voice and whistle at long distances when herding. Their great energy and herding instinct are still used to herd all kinds of animals, from sheep and cattle to free-range poultry, pigs and ostriches. They are even used to remove unwanted wild birds from airport runways and golf courses. But be forewarned: this herding instinct is so ingrained that they often herd children, sometimes accidentally knocking them down. For people with young kids, this may not be the ideal breed.
“Not only are they beautiful to look at but they’re simply the most intelligent dog I’ve ever known,” said Dina Collins. “Their attention, trainability and ability to care for their home and family make this breed the best. I’ve had three over the years. However, not everyone can own this breed of dog. They need owners who can devote their time and attention, exercise and mentally-stimulating games and training.”
True to their working heritage, border collies make very demanding, energetic pets and are better off in households that can provide plenty of play and exercise with humans or other dogs. Due to their demanding personalities, their need for mental stimulation and exercise, many border collies develop neurotic behaviors in households that are not able to provide for their needs. They are famous for chewing holes in walls and digging holes out of boredom. As a result, an alarming number of border collies end up in shelters and rescues every year.
Dawn Florence recalled her childhood dog with fondness. “I had a border collie as a child and she was very loyal. I remember her waiting for me to come home from school each day. Now in my 50s, I have another border collie rescue dog. What I had forgotten is how much consistency these dogs need: exercise, good food and things to do. She naturally tried to dominate me and it’s important to be firm. That eye-staring thing and growling is normal as she tries to get her way. I can now stare back when she is obstinate and use a firm voice, and it works.”
Border collies are perfectionists with a permanent will to please. This breed lives for serving their masters day in and day out. To be happy, they need consistent leadership and a job to occupy their minds. Border collies will often challenge their owners’ authority. One needs to be a firm, confident and a consistent pack leader, otherwise, the dog may try to take over the home. For anyone simply looking for a nice family pet, a border collie might not be the ideal choice.
