History of the Border Collie Breed
Considered to be the ultimate sheepdog, the border collie has been bred over the years for function more than anything else. Evidence of the history of the breed is believed to be found in the wood carvings by Thomas Beckwick, featured in The History of Quadrupeds, which was written prior to 1800. It is said that the works show some resemblance to both the rough-coated and smooth-coated varieties of today's border collie. There was a variety of sheepdogs in Great Britain in the 1800s, each of which had their own herding style, and the first documented sheepdog trial was held in 1873. It is said that a dog named Hemp performed exceedingly well in the contest, and it is believed that he is the father of the border collie breed. Apparently Hemp was able to herd the sheep by calmly staring at them instead of nipping at their heels and barking. Some believe that the border collie descended from older British droving dogs, and that a mix of spaniel was added in. Records show that classes for "Scotch Sheep Dogs" were held at the Birmingham Dog Society in 1860, and it is believed that Queen Victoria was enamored of the breed after she first saw a border collie while on a trip to Balmoral. The first standard of the breed was composed in 1906, but the description weighed heavily with the dog's working ability, and no importance was placed on the breed's physical attributes. The breed was simply known as sheepdogs until around 1915 when the first record of the name border collie was introduced. The origin of the name border collie is likely a reference to the place of origin of this breed: the region between the Scottish and English border. The border collie was later introduced to the United States, where it enjoyed popularity with shepherds, and eventually it became known for its excellence in obedience trials. However, the border collie wasn't recognized by the AKC until 1995. This breed is also occasionally trained to serve as guide dogs for the blind.
Size and Appearance of the Border Collie Breed
Slightly longer than it is tall, the border collie is an active and alert dog that is built and bred for work. The front legs are of sufficiently long for the type of work this breed does. The front feet are compact and oval with strong pads, strong nails, and moderately-arched toes. The hindquarters are muscular and broad with strong, long thighs. The back feet are the same as in front, but they are slightly smaller. The moderately-sized, oval-shaped eyes of the border collie convey an alert, eager expression that is also very intelligent. The eyes are usually some shade of brown. The ears, which can be carried erect or semi-erect, are medium in size. The strong muzzle tapers slightly to the nose, and the nose is generally the same as the primary body color of the dog and features well-developed nostrils. The teeth meet in a strong scissors bite. Proportional in length to the rest of the body, the neck of this breed is slightly arched, and it blends nicely into the shoulders. The moderately-long tail is set on low, and it is usually carried low when the dog is on task. When the dog is excited, the tail may be confidently raised and waved. The gait of this breed can best be described as enduring and agile - the dog is able to suddenly change direction and still maintain balance and grace. The coat of the border collie comes in two varieties: rough and smooth. Each coat type features dense, weather-resistant double coats. The double coat includes a straight or wavy top coat that is coarser than the undercoat and a short, dense undercoat that is considerably softer. The difference between the two coats is that the coat of the rough variety is medium in length, while the smooth coat is shorter in length. The rough coat may have feathering on the front legs, the haunches, the chest, and the underside, while the hair on the face, ears, and feet is shorter and smooth. The smooth coat may have slight feathering found on the front legs, the haunches, the chest, and the ruff. The border collie comes in a wide variety of color combinations including: solid color, bi-color, tri-color, merle, and sable.
Border Collie Temperament
Full of physical and mental energy, the border collie needs a job to do. It is considered to be one of the most intelligent and obedient breeds, but if not given proper challenges, it can become an unfortunate house dog. But with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, the border collie can be a dependable and loyal companion. This breed usually gets along well with other dogs and older children, but it may tend to be aggressive with other dogs of the same sex. While many border collies can get along with cats in the family, the breed should be carefully monitored with other small, non-canine pets. To prevent shyness as an adult, this dog should be very well socialized as a puppy. It is often reserved around strangers. Because of its tendency to stare, this breed may unnerve other animals. The border collie loves to be praised. It is a sensitive breed that is fairly easy to train. If left alone for long periods of time, this breed may become destructive and suffer from behavioral problems. It is also known for its talent for escaping.
Border Collie Recommended Maintenance
Regular grooming, including combing and brushing, is necessary to keep the coat of the border collie at its best. Extra time and care is essential during shedding of the soft, dense undercoat. This breed should be bathed only when necessary. Checking the ears and coat for ticks on a regular basis is recommended. This breed is considered to be an average shedder. Daily physical activity and mental stimulation is essential. Without enough stimulation, the border collie may develop behavioral problems and become aggressive. This breed enjoys participating in obedience, agility, and sheepdog trials. It is not recommended for apartment living, and it is not suited for being chained up in the yard all day. An active, involved owner is ideal for this breed.
Border Collie Health
Life span: 10 - 14 years
Major concerns: CHD
Minor concerns: PRA, lens luxation, CEA, PDA, OCD, PPM
Occasionally seen: cerebellar abiotrophy, ceroid lipofuscinosis, deafness
Suggested tests: hip, eye
