The Border Collie

A CHARMING, MULTIFACETED BREED

TEXT: RHIANNON CECIL

This charming and vivacious herding breed originated in the British Isles, exclusively as a sheep herder. Their astonishing intellect and enthusiastic athleticism have earned them fame on the silver screen and the competitive dog circuit. They learn new skills at a remarkable pace and are often described as honest, loyal working companions.

BORDER COLLIE HISTORY

The Border Collie has a long and complex history, dating back to when the Roman Empire first invaded the British Isles. The Roman invasion had great influences on Britain's future development, and the Border Collie is just one of those.

The Romans brought livestock with them during the invasion and their own herding dogs to keep watch. These early herding dogs were large and big-boned and remained at their post for almost three centuries. It wasn't until fierce Viking raiders made their appearance that the modern Border Collie came into existence. Just like the Romans, the Vikings brought herding dogs, but these were smaller and quicker. Over time, the two breeds combined to produce a medium-sized and energetic working dog perfect for herding in the rocky highlands of Scotland and Wales.

The Border Collie became popular amongst the wealthier English class in the 19th century. They were perfect for occupying large open spaces and used for herding as well as protection. Today, Border Collies are still arguably among the best herding breeds in the world. They are easy to train, making them great for families with older children, and are also used as guide dogs, avid participants in dog sports and even for police work.

BORDER COLLIE OVERVIEW

Border Collies are medium-sized dogs, and the males reach approximately 55 cm tall weighing in at roughly 30kg. The female Border Collies are slightly smaller in size. Border Collies have long-feathered tails with pointy ears that often have their tips dropped over. The fluffy Border Collie coat can range from 2.5cm to 8cm long. A variety of colours are seen, including black and white, red and white, black and gray, all black, merle and tricolour. The longer-haired Border Collie usually has a lush mane and tail.

Border Collies are working dogs to the very core and need plenty of stimulation. They are highly intelligent yet wilful and playful, so they fit in perfectly with active and engaged families. They are great with older children and will often become protective with a stranger in their midst. The herding instinct in this breed is almost unparalleled, so it's not unnatural for them to herd family members, nipping the heels of their unwilling humans just like when herding sheep.

LIVING WITH A BORDER COLLIE

Border Collies are high energy and have a mind of their own. This wilful, quick-witted and sometimes overeager breed is not suited to apartment living. They're easily bored and need constant stimulation; without it, they quickly become destructive. Border Collies would be best suited for an equally energetic owner with a large garden, and they make excellent running and hiking partners too. They love to play and are extremely alert, making them a pleasure to train. With good and consistent training, they develop excellent manners, perfect for obedience, agility and flyball.

Although Border Collies are athletic and love working outside, they have a cuddly side to them as well and can often be spotted cuddling up next to their humans on the couch after a long day. This breed craves human attention and is always eager to please, but shouldn't be left alone for hours at a time, as they can become anxious and destructive.

A Border Collie's herding instinct is so pronounced he will even herd your children. With the proper training and socialisation, this breed is excellent around older children. Younger children, on the other hand, may fall prey to characteristic nipping on the legs as your Border tries to herd and discipline them. Children will need to be taught how to interact with this breed to avoid misunderstandings between the two parties.

Despite their long coats, Border Collies are easy to groom and shed seasonally. Their dual-layered coat is built to withstand long working hours in all weather conditions and is fairly low maintenance, which means fewer baths. Brush your Border Collie at least once a week to keep the coat from matting, loosen debris and keep their skin healthy. Increase your grooming to once a day during shedding season.

BORDER COLLIE HEALTH

Border Collies are generally a healthy breed; however, they can be prone to their own set of health issues, just like any other dog breed. The most common issue with Border Collies is hip dysplasia — when the bones that form the hip joints don't fit perfectly together and cause wear and tear in the hip. It is wise to get your Border Collie from a reputable breeder or rescue centre and let your trusted veterinarian give the dog a full workup to assess the situation and provide any information on joint maintenance and other preventive measures.

IS A BORDER COLLIE THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU?

A Border Collie might be the right dog for you if:

• You are willing to take part in socialising and extensive training, not just in puppyhood but throughout his adult life as well.

• You live an active lifestyle and desire a super-psyched partner to accompany you on adventures.

• You have a larger piece of land, and you are happy to take him on regular walks.

• You work from home or are able to spend a lot of time keeping your dog physically and mentally stimulated.

• You're looking for an alert and intelligent addition to your family who is likely to warn you of any unusual activity.

• You enjoy canine sport and have been playing with the idea of getting competitive — this is the ultimate athlete who thrives on competition and advanced training.

• You're an experienced dog owner who knows how to handle an intelligent working dog.

• You live near the ocean; Border Collies just love playing fetch on the beach.

• You desire a companion as well as a working dog and are willing to find the perfect balance between work and play.

A Border Collie might not be the right dog for you if:

• You live in an apartment or have a small garden.

• You have small children or toddlers.

• You spend a lot of time away from home and would prefer a dog who can be left to his own devices.

• You have never owned a dog before — Border Collies are not recommended for first-time dog owners. Their complex personalities are better suited to experienced dog handlers.

• You don't have the time or inclination for regular training, both at home and at a reputable training facility.

FINAL THOUGHTS

There is nothing quite like the spark in a Border Collie's eye. It speaks to a cheekiness, wit and understanding that's hard to find in other breeds. They make the most loving and enthusiastic partners in life, especially those who love the outdoors and are willing to spend hours keeping them entertained.

In return, they'll entertain you. Their sharp minds and cheeky sense of humour can have you rolling on the floor with laughter. Experienced dog owners often swear by this comical, dynamic little powerhouse. Your heart will melt when they cock their heads and give you a knowing look, taking you in with those shining, keen eyes.

While they are protective, entertaining companions with almost human-like intelligence, they are not house pets. A Border Collie isn't truly happy unless he's working. Give him work to do and keep that active mind busy, and you'll know exactly why this is one of the most beloved breeds in the world. Creating a partnership with a Border Collie is an experience in itself, and once you have one, your life will never be quite the same.