Is a Border Collie right for You?
Border Collies are known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They excel in agility and obedience training and are highly energetic. They have a strong herding instinct and are often used as working dogs on farms. Border Collies require lots of mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
The Border Collie is a dog breed that was developed for herding livestock.
Originating from the Anglo-Scottish border (between England and Scotland), these dogs have been bred for their exceptional intelligence and working ability. Their main purpose was to drive herds of sheep to market while also ensuring the safety of the flocks by keeping predators at bay. The Border Collie’s innate instincts and natural agility make them highly effective in their role as herding dogs. They possess a strong sense of responsibility and are known for their loyalty and dedication to their work.
The Border Collie is a very old breed
and it is possible that they were introduced to Britain even before humans settled there permanently after the Ice Age. In fact, evidence of their presence can be found in ancient cave paintings depicting humans hunting animals. This suggests that Border Collies have been by our side for centuries, serving as loyal companions and valuable working partners.
The modern Border Collie can trace it’s roots back to one specific dog
named Old Hemp, who was born in 1893. Known for his exceptional intelligence and instincts, Old Hemp quickly became a legend in the world of herding dogs. His skills were so extraordinary that he was sought after as a stud, and it is estimated that he fathered over 200 puppies. Old Hemp’s offspring inherited his intelligence and working abilities, solidifying the Border Collie breed as one of the most versatile and capable herding dogs in existence.
Border Collies Doing the Work they Love
Known for its Hardworking Nature and Agility
the Border Collie has earned its reputation as one of the most intelligent breeds in the canine world. This breed possesses an exceptional ability to learn tasks quickly and is always eager to please its human companions. However, it’s important to note that the Border Collie thrives on human companionship and can become easily bored if left alone for extended periods of time. Without proper mental stimulation and regular exercise, this breed may exhibit destructive behaviors. Therefore, it is crucial for potential owners to understand that the Border Collie requires a significant amount of time and commitment. If you’re unable to provide the necessary attention and engagement, then this remarkable dog may not be the right fit for you.
There are a number of organizations devoted
to herding enthusiasts that host events where Border Collies can show off their herding skills. Some people also like to train the dog in agility or flyball. These competitions help provide mental stimulation for the dog while still allowing him to get out some extra energy. They are always among the top winners in agility, herding, flyball etc. and other canine competitions.
The Border Collie can make good family pets
but there are special precautions to take if you have small children in your home. This dog has been known to nip at the heels of running children while they are playing; this behavior could frighten young kids and the intensity of the nips could hurt them. This is a natural herding instinct and the dog means no harm.
The Border Collie is a highly intelligent breed
that has the ability to learn any task it is given. The dog needs an owner who can be firm yet not overbearing, as the Border Collie will push back if pushed too hard. It needs positive reinforcement rather than harsh verbal reprimands. When properly trained, this dog will form a special and unique bond with its owner and will work diligently to please them.
According the Border Collie Breed Standard
a Border Collie can range from 18-22 inches tall and weigh between 30-55 pounds. AKC standard states their thick, double coats, which can come in rough or smooth variety: “appear in all colors or combination of colors and/or markings. All colors are to be judged equally with no one color or pattern preferred over another.”
It is no exaggeration to say the Border Collie
is the smartest dog breed in the world. In research on canine intelligence, the Border Collie ranks first out of 130 dog breeds in intelligence. Essentially, this means they will generally learn new commands in 5 repetitions or fewer and follow the first command 95% of the time or higher. In comparison, some breeds require 80-100 repetitions to learn a new command!
Border Collies are a relatively healthy breed
with a lifespan from 15-20 years. A Border Collie named Skippy in Ireland lived over 26 years! But there are a few genetic conditions and health issues to be aware of such as Collie Eye Anomaly, Border Collie collapse and epilepsy.
How Fast Can a Border Collie Run?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) conducts 100 yard dog racing trials each December in Orlando, FL called the Fast Cat Invitational. The average running speed for a Border Collie is 25.1 mph, about the same as a Dalmatian! The fastest speed recorded was by a dog named Contact Point Booyah at 32.03 mph!
Border Collie Temperament and Personality
The C-BARQ study is research conducted at the University of Pennsylvania on the temperament of dogs. The Border Collie ranks 26th out of 124 dog breeds in energy level. They are high energy dogs!
In this same research, the Border Collie
got 97.3% score for trainability. They were 3rd out of 124 breeds. They also rank VERY low in stubborn behaviors which makes training much easier. There are other intelligent breeds who, because they are stubborn, are not as easy to train!
Check Your Border Collie Facts and Take a Fun Border Collie Quiz!
Border Collie Humor!
Facts about Border Collies-Final Thoughts
Border Collies are truly remarkable dogs that possess a unique set of qualities and characteristics. From their intense stare to their uncanny ability to understand hand signals, Border Collies have rightfully earned their reputation as the world’s smartest dog. Their instinctive desire to work and their independent thinking make them perfect candidates for dog sports and activities that require mental and physical exercise. While they may not be the best choice for everyone, Border Collies can make great family pets with proper training and socialization.
