Border Collies belong to the group of herding and drover dogs. The breed is said to have originated on the border between Scotland and England, where they worked as sheepdogs, tending to flocks of sheep. Today, they remain the most popular sheepdog breed, thanks to their intelligence, energy, acrobatic and athletic ability, and their tendency to obey. But the Border Collie is also a much-loved and desired companion dog because of its extraordinary intelligence.
What are Border Collies like?
Border Collies are well-proportioned. They have a harmonious, graceful, yet also resilient body. They are athletic, relatively muscular, and strong, but their body doesn't convey a sense of heaviness. Adult males typically weigh between 14 and 20 kilograms and measure between 48 and 56 centimeters, while females are between 12 and 19 kilograms and measure between 46 and 53 centimeters.
Undoubtedly, one of the most characteristic physical traits of Border Collies is their coat. Generally, they tend to have a moderately long, dense, and soft coat, which provides very pleasant protection against the elements. As for colors, a wide variety of shades are accepted, although white should not predominate. Their ears are medium-sized and set well apart, usually erect or semi-erect, and in any case they become stimulated at the slightest noise.
Their tail is moderately long, set low, well-furnished with hair, and ends in an upward curve, which completes the grace of the silhouette and the dog's balance. When excited, they raise their tail quite high, though never over their back.
On their face, their eyes stand out: well-separated, oval, and of moderate size. They are generally brown (except in "merle" specimens, where the eyes can be partially or completely blue). When a Border Collie looks at you, you perceive its sweetness and intelligence. You realize how alert they are, and their tendency to be watchful.
The nose is usually black (except in chocolate brown specimens, in which case the nose is usually also brown). And it is prominent on a moderately short and strong muzzle. As for their jaw, their perfect and strong teeth stand out, with a scissor bite, meaning the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors and are set vertically in the jaws.
What is the Border Collie temperament like?
Generally, a Border Collie is tenacious, hardworking, and remarkably docile. They are clever, obedient, and intelligent (in fact, they are said to be the most intelligent dogs in the world, according to Stanley Coren's list). They usually have an alert attitude, but that doesn't make them nervous or aggressive dogs. Quite the opposite. Those who know them know that Border Collies are charming ARISTODOGS, who get along well with everyone.
MOVEMENT: Free, easy and tireless, raising its feet to a minimum, which gives the impression of stealth and speed.
How to care for Border Collies?
Accustomed by nature to herding, they are resilient and strong dogs that do not require overly sophisticated care. Although, logically, their energetic and active nature means that these ARISTODOGS need to "tire themselves out," meaning they require a good deal of daily activity and exercise to feel balanced. Boredom is their worst enemy. Because this dog is used to feeling fulfilled (it is the best ally of shepherds) and likes to learn new things every day, it is important that their ARISTOPARENTS have time for joint activities. If these few requirements are met, Border Collies lead healthy, full, and balanced lives.
Now that you know Border Collies better, we encourage you to get to know other equally wonderful breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, Schnauzers and "westies".