BORDER COLLIE CLUB OF GREATER LOS ANGELES
THE BORDER COLLIE
The workaholic of the dog world, the Border Collie is the world's premier sheep herder, prized for its intelligence, extraordinary instinct and working ability. Medium-sized and athletic, the breed controls stock with stalking movement and an intense gaze known as "eye." The Border Collie coat can be rough or smooth and includes any color in bi-color, tri-color, merle, sable, or solid patterns.
Right Breed for You?
This high-drive breed is extremely energetic and requires exercise beyond just a walk around the block or a romp in the yard. They thrive when they have a job to do and space to run. Due to their tendency to herd objects and people, they do best with mature, well-behaved children. They love their families, but may be somewhat reserved with strangers. They are seasonal shedders, and require regular brushing.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE BORDER COLLIE:Expect a Border Collie to require two or three hours of rigorous exercise, training, and your companionship throughout the day. They need lots of room and lots of engaging activity with people they love.Be persistent in your search for the right dog. Keep notes. Network. Attend events. Ask questions. Keep track. Follow up and ask for referrals. Speak to puppy owners who are pleased to refer you to a breeder. Check health clearances and temperament of sire and dam. At a minimum, the sire and dam should have hip and eye clearances. A reputable breeder keeps records of health clearances for many generations. What kind of socialization do the puppies get? How many litters does the breeder breed? What activities does the breeder do with their own dogs?If you meet a dog that would be a pleasure to live with, ask where it came from and what kind of training they have done. A lovely dog is usually the result of countless hours of thoughtful attention and training. If a rehomed adult dog might better suit your family's lifestyle, a responsible breeder can often help you find one. Without proper guidance, attention, and training, a Border Collie puppy can be a relentless source of digging, chewing, chasing, and frustration, both for you and for the puppy.