Find Border Collie Dog gifts at the Forest Cottage.
Originally brought to Scotland by Viking invaders, the first Border Collies were reindeer herding dogs. Later they were crossed with the Valee sheepdog. They are about 21 inches high at the shoulder. They weigh about 45 pounds. There are two varieties of this dog: coarse haired and sleek haired. Colors are black and white; black, white and tan; solid black; gray and black; and red and white.
Border Collies love to work. They are the world's premier sheep-working breed and are intelligent and strong. These high-energy dogs need plenty of exercise. They are bred for endurance. If you can't give your Border Collie plenty of attention and the chance to work, then perhaps a different breed of dog would be better. A bored Border Collie can become troublesome and destructive. They will chew on anything, including furniture and carpets. They also love to dig holes.
The herding instinct makes Border Collies want to herd anything that moves. If not properly controlled these dogs will nip at the heels and legs of people when they run. They also tend to be car-chasers, and this could be a dangerous type of behavior if allowed to continue. They are very agile and can easily jump a 6-foot fence if they get the notion to do so.
Border Collies thrive on attention and are very affectionate. Border Collies are highly intelligent and quick learners. They do not mature until around 2 or 3 years (or older), and many older dogs are still very lively and full of energy.
Their extreme versatility makes them excel at many things. They make good search and rescue dogs. Some organizations train them as signal (hearing) and assistance dogs. Police departments in some states use them as drug detection dogs.
Border Collies average between 30 to 50 pounds. They are generally not good guard dogs although they will be protective of their owners. They are moderate shedders. They shed most in early spring and late fall. A ten-minute brushing two or three times per week helps to keep their coats clean and in nice condition.
The average lifespan of the Border Collie is probably about 12 to 13 years, and some individuals reach the ripe old age of 14 years and older.Our sponsor, Jeannie's Cottage, carries a nice selection of Border Collie stuffed animals and gifts. The Border Collie stuffed animals shown above include Meadow the Border Collie made by Douglas, the large Border Collie named Chase stuffed animal is also made by Douglas Cuddle Toys, a Ganz Heritage Collection Border Collie plush toy, Shep the Bearington Border Collie and a Border Collie Puppy Pal Garden Stone. Find these gifts in the Jeannie's Cottage Gift Shop.
To find a Border Collie of your very own, visit the Border Collie Rescue.
