The Border Collie is a breed of dog that was originally bred to help herd sheep. It's an energetic fun dog and is considered the most intelligent of the dog breeds.
How big is the Border Collie?
The Border Collie is a medium size dog. Males weigh around 30 to 45 pounds and are about 20 inches tall at the withers (shoulders). Females are slightly smaller.
Border Collie Sitting Author: Martin Steiger, CC0
Border Collie's coats come in a variety of colors. Black and white is the most common, but they also commonly come in black/white/tan, red/white, and black/red/white. There are other colors, too, such as red/gold or just a single color, but they are less common. Their coat is medium length and doesn't shed too much.
Where does the Border Collie come from?
The Border Collie was originally bred in the late 1800s in the border country between Scotland and England. The original dog was a collie named Old Hemp. He was such a good sheep dog that many other shepherds used him to father more dogs for them to use as sheep dogs. Thus the new breed was born. Originally it was called the Scotch Sheep Dog.
Border Collies in Sports
Border Collies are one of the most intelligent and athletic of dogs. As a result, they are a favorite in many dog sports competitions, especially sheep herding.
Does it make a good pet?
The Border Collie can make a great pet for the right owner and family. The most important thing is that they get lots of exercise, attention, and stimulation. Without this they may go a bit crazy and start acting up and chewing up the house. They also may be a bit too aggressive in their herding behavior for small children. Owners need to keep in mind that Border Collies are highly intelligent and bred to herd sheep all day. They should be treated accordingly.
Fun Facts about the Border Collie
A typical Border Collie lives 10 to 12 years.
Some Border Collies have learned to recognize hundreds of words and react to them.
They have litters of 6 to 8 puppies.
All true Border Collies can trace their ancestry back to Old Hemp.
They are also great search and rescue dogs.
They are considered the top obedience dogs.
They were first recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club in 1995.
Border Collie Catching Frisbee Author: p, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
