Description

This superbly intelligent dog hails from the border lands around Scotland, England and Wales. The first Border Collie can be traced back to a dog by the name of Old Hemp. Old Hemp was a tri colored dog born September 1893 and died in May of 1901. He had a quiet, strong way with the sheep. Old Hemp was used for stud, but the most famous of Border Collie studs was a dog by the name of Winston Cap. You can even find his pedigree in pups today. The Male Border Collie stands between 19 and 22 in. tall at the withers and weighs between 30 and 45 lbs. Female Borders stand between 18 to 21 in. tall and weigh between 27 and 42 lbs. Borders come with two coat types course and sleek. The course hair is about 3 in. long and the one with sleek hair about 1 in. long. They come in a variety of colors…black and white, red and white, tri colored, black and gray, and all black. The longer coated dog will have a mane around its neck as well.

Temperament

This is a working dog. Highly trainable and intelligent. He will train with ease with the right owner. Used in Frisbee, Flyball and Agility Courses this dog loves it all. Borders generally don’t do well with dogs of the same sex, but will do well with other dogs, pets and kids if properly socialized early on. He aims to please his owner.  This dog requires a lot of time with his people. This is not a dog who will sleep on the couch all day…he needs to keep busy or some bad behavioral issues could arise.

Grooming/Exercise

The Border will need regular brushing and combing to keep his coat healthy, soft and shiny. Bathe only when needed. Check this dog for ticks after each outing. Borders need to be exercised both physically and mentally…Lots! They love games and long walks. This dog cannot be chained outside or live in an apartment he requires a great deal of exercise and attention from his owners.

Health

Life Expectancy is 12 to 15 years.

Possible Issues

• Hip Dysplasia
• PRA
• Collie Eye Anomaly
• Flea Allergies
• Epilepsy