ABOUT BORDER COLLIES

Dogs were first domesticated by humans because they were found to be useful animals for hunting and protection. As humans evolved from hunting and gathering to farming and keeping livestock, dogs were selected to help gather, tend and protect the flocks and herds. Different breeds of dogs were developed based on the type of livestock and the geographical area in which they lived and worked.
The Border Collie’s origin was in the hill country of Scotland. There, the sheep spread out and roamed the steep and craggy hillsides; often out of site of the shepherd. To be useful in this situation, a dog had to have the ability to go deep enough into the field to locate all of the sheep and, working independently of the shepherd, bring them safely home. Dogs that proved useful in intelligence and trainability were bred together and the Border Collie developed into one of the world’s finest sheep dogs.

Even though the breeding stock of the Border Collie was selected for talent, the dogs do conform to a recognizable type. The traditionally-marked Border Collie is black with white markings, but they can also be red, gray, blue-merle or red-merle in color, with white or tan markings. The eye color varies with the coat color. The coat can be rough (long) or smooth (short) or medium. The ear set is generally high on the head and the ears can be pricked, meaning they stand upright, or semi-pricked so they fold over. The size of a Border Collie can be quite variable, but the males are usually less than 22 inches at the shoulder and the females are smaller yet. The judging of Border Collies based on conformation is a controversial topic among Border Collie enthusiasts.

Floyd's black and white markings, eye color and semi-pricked ears are typical of the breed.

The uniqueness of the Border Collie breed is in its ability and style as a herding dog. The Border Collie uses his eyes to control the movement of the livestock. Like a wild cat stalking its prey, the Border Collie approaches the sheep in a crouched position, starring at them intensely. The sheep react to the stare by moving away from the dog. A strong-eyed dog must approach sheep slowly and calmly or they will panic and flee. The Border Collie has a powerful herding style, allowing it to work farther away from the stock than any other type of herding dog.

While Border Collies are best known for their ability to herd sheep, they will also work with any species that will flock or gather together. Many trial dogs will herd ducks or geese in competitions and some Border Collies have been selected for their ability to work cattle.

Sprite displays the stalking position and steady stare of the Border Collie's herding style.

Because the Border Collie was bred for working ability, it is a breed that is highly trainable for numerous dog activities. Their moderate size and optimal height-to-weight ratio make them agile, with the stamina to work all day. They have proven to be intelligent, quick learners and have a strong drive to work. Border Collies are versatile and adaptable to different situations, but they require both physical and mental stimulation to be compatible pets.