|
Border Collie
The Border Collie is world
renowned for its intelligence and hard work. It is still used
as a working sheep dog in many countries.
History:
The Border Collie originated
in the border region at the base of the Cheviot Hills between
England and Scotland.
Physical
characteristics:
The Border Collie is a
medium-sized dog. Height: 20 - 21 in (52 cm) for the dog and
19 - 20 in (50 cm) for the bitch. Weight: 50 lb (23 kg). The
head is well-rounded on the dome with a medium-length muzzle
and scissor bite. Its back is level with a well-sprung rib
cage. The tail is low or level with the back.
The
Border Collie's coat is double with a moderately long, dense,
firm topcoat and a short, soft, dense undercoat to provide
almost complete weather proofing. The coat color can be black
and white, or black with white and tan markings. There is also
a reddish-brown with white version of the Border Collie.
Behavior:
As this dog is very attractive
to look at and is medium-sized, it is often chosen by people
to become a family dog. In most cases the Border Collie makes
an excellent family companion because it is intelligent,
energetic, and capable of being very active. However, this dog
was especially bred to be a tough working dog. It is brave
enough to face down the biggest herd of sheep and boldly move
them on with its powerful character. This same strength of
character must be properly harnessed by assertively training
the dog when it is young.
A
Border Collie that becomes too bossy and bored is definitely
not a good family pet. This dog loves to be given tasks by its
owner, and positively basks in the glory when you praise it.
It is a wonderful sight to see these dogs both at work and
play. Physically these dogs are very hardy, but their feet
should be checked after they have been running over rough
country; brambles and debris should be removed from their
coat.
 |