Border Collie Dog Breed Profile

by Dr. Chris

AKC Group: Herding Group

The legendary Border Collie, Winston Cap, was bred by W.S. Hetherington. Winston Cap's bloodline can be found even in today's Border Collies. His ancestries trace all the way back to the earlier lines of the studbook.

History

The Border Collie originated in the British islands on the border between Scotland and England. The origins of the term Collie is often disputed; some say the name came from a Gaelic term meaning useful, some attribute it to "collie" which means black, and some still insist it is the type of sheep that it herded. Every Border Collie traces it bloodline back to a dog named Old Hemp. It was a tri-colored dog that was born in 1893 and passed away in 1901. It has been stated that the Border Collie is the most intelligent dog in the world.

Physical Features

The Border Collie is a well balanced, medium sized, very intelligent, energetic dog. It stands about 19-22 inches in height and weighs about 30-45 pounds. It is noted for and bred for its intelligence and working ability. The Border Collie is slightly longer than tall. It has a smooth, medium to long coat and a water defiant undercoat which is smooth and soft. It has a two layered coat, the top layer is weather resistant, and the undercoat is more coarse and is designed to hold in heat. The undercoat is soft and dense. The uneven variety of hair is average in length without being extreme. It comes in a variety of colors. They include: black/white, chocolate/white, red/white, yellow/white, slate (blue/white), sable/white and tri-colors. These may be: blue merle, red merle, saddle pattern, and sable merle.

Personality

The Collie is very playful and happy. Their "flagging" tail is a sign not only of craving to work, but craving to play. They love doggy sports such as "Frisbee." It will protect its territory and those around it; those are inherent in its breeding, The Border Collie will bark excitedly when there is danger present.

Common Health Problems

Hip dysplasia, Osteochondritis Dissecans (joint problems), progressive retinal atrophy, Collie eye anomaly (not progressive), Epilepsy (can be tested), Congenital deafness.

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