Border Collie

General Information - Border Collie

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History

It is said that the Border Collie descends from dogs used by the Vikings to herd reindeer. When the dogs arrived in Scotland, they were most likely crossed with the Valee Sheepdog. Today, the British Border Collie is recognised world-wide as perhaps the most intelligent, hard-working, agile and loyal breed available to sheep-herders. Its herding instincts and abilities are unsurpassed and it is the breed's ability to work that is of prime importance. Owners of a Border Collie must be able to provide plenty of exercise and activity.

Temperament

The Border Collie is a high energy breed that loves to work and requires activities to keep it healthy and occupied. Border Collies are highly intelligent, sensitive and responsive. They thrive on pleasing their owner day in and day out and will not be happy sitting around a house all day. Border Collies are very energetic, highly trainable and have great stamina.

Upkeep

Few dogs are as work-oriented as the Border Collie. This is a dog that needs a job. It needs a lot of physical and mental activity every day to satisfy its quest for work. It can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates, but it enjoys being with its family inside as well. This is a dog that cannot live in an apartment and that should preferably have ready access to a yard. Its coat needs brushing or combing twice weekly.