Border Collie

[Troy]

The Border Collie

ANKC Standard

(from http://www.ankc.org.au/home/breeds_details.asp?bid=137 )

Group: Group 5 (Working Dogs)

General Appearance: The general appearance shall be that of a well proportioned dog, the smooth outline showing quality, gracefulness and perfect balance, combined with sufficient substance to ensure that it is capable of enduring long periods of active duty in its intended task as a working sheep dog. Any tendency to coarseness or weediness is undesirable.

Characteristics: The Border Collie is highly intelligent, with an instinctive tendency to work and is readily responsive to training. Its keen, alert and eager expression add to its intelligent appearance, whilst its loyal and faithful nature demonstrates that it is at all times kindly disposed towards stock. Any aspect of structure or temperament foreign to a working dog is uncharacteristic.

Temperament: (See under Characteristics)

Head And Skull: The skull is broad and flat between the ears, slightly narrowing to the eye, with a pronounced stop, cheeks deep but not prominent. The muzzle tapering to the nose, is strong and the same length as the skull. The lips are tight and clean and the nose is large with open nostrils. The nose colour in all dogs will be a solid colour with no pink or light pigment, and shall complement the background colour of the dog.

Eyes: The eyes are set wide apart, oval shaped of moderate size harmonising with the colour of the coat but darker colour preferred, except in the case of chocolate where a lighter colour is permissible and in the case of merles where blue is permissible. The expression is mild but keen, alert and intelligent.

Ears: The ears should be of medium size and texture, set well apart, carried semi-erect. They are sensitive in their use, and inside well furnished with hair.

Mouth: The teeth should be sound, strong and evenly spaced, the lower incisors just behind but touching the upper, that is a scissor bite.

Neck: The neck is of good length, strong and muscular, slightly arched and broadening to the shoulders, without throatiness or coarseness.

Forequarters: The shoulders are long, and well angulated to the upper arm, neither in nor out at elbow. The forelegs are well boned, straight and parallel when viewed from the front. Pasterns show flexibility with a slight slope when viewed from the side.

Body: The body is moderately long with well sprung ribs tapering to a fairly deep and moderately broad chest. The loins are broad, deep, muscular and only slightly arched, flanks deep and not cut up.

Hindquarters: The hindquarters are broad and muscular, in profile sloping gracefully to the set on of tail. The thighs are long, broad, deep and muscular with well turned stifles and strong hocks, well let down, and when viewed from the rear are straight and parallel.

Feet: Oval in shape, pads deep, strong and sound, toes moderately arched and close together. Nails short and strong.

Tail: The tail is moderately long, set on low, well furnished and with an upward swirl towards the end, completing the graceful contour and balance of the dog. The tail may be raised in excitement, but not carried over the back.

Gait/Movement: The movement is free, smooth and tireless, with a minimum lift of the feet, conveying the impression of the ability to move with great stealth. The action, viewed from the front, should be straight forward and true, without weakness at shoulders, elbows or pasterns. Viewed from behind the quarters thrust with strength and flexibility, with hocks not close nor too far apart. When trotting, the dog's feet tend to come closer together as speed increases, but when the dog comes to rest he should stand four square. Any tendency to stiltiness or to cowhocks or bowhocks is a serious fault.

Coat: Double coated, with a moderately long, dense, medium textured topcoat while the undercoat is short, soft and dense, making a weather resisting protection, with abundant coat to form mane, breeching and brush. On face, ear tips, forelegs (except for feather), hind legs from hock to ground, the hair is short and smooth.

Colour: Black and white, blue and white, chocolate and white, red and white, blue merle and the tri-colour black, tan and white. In each case the basic body colour must predominate and be the background colour of the dog.

Sizes: Height:

Dogs 48-53 cm (approx. 19-21 ins) at withers

Bitches 46-51 cm (approx. 18-20 ins) at withers

Faults: Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog.

Notes: Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

See Photos of the Border Collie

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

3. How common is it in Australia?

4. What is the average lifespan?

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

9. How much grooming is required?

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

If you wish to contribute to the knowledge about this breed, please answer the above questions. (Copy and paste them into a new post).

• Please only answer if you breed or own a pedigree example of this breed.
  
• You do not have to answer all questions
  
• Please keep posts limited to answering questions or for asking further questions if you require more (or expanded) information.
  

See Photos of the Border Collie

Border Collie Breeders

Border Collie Puppies For Sale

[benshiva]

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

I have owned Border Collies for 14 years and bred my first litter 9 years ago.

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

The breed originated on the border of Scotland and England. The first recorded import into Australia was a dog by the name of Hindhope Jed in 1901. Australia is recognised as the "country of development" of the modern day Border Collie. The first breed standard was written in Tasmania.

They were developed to herd sheep in the rugged hills of the border countries between England and Scotland. They needed a moderate agile dog to work the sheep amoung the hills. The were introduced into Australia as we had a growing sheep industry at the time and there is a common saying from that time that the country rode on a sheep's back! The border collie was admired for its stamina and agility and has proven a reliable working dog for our climate.

3. How common is it in Australia?

The Border Collie has proven to be a very popular dog in Australia and would not be considered a rare breed by any stretch of the imagination!

4. What is the average lifespan?

13 years

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

They are very intelligent, with an inherit desire to work. They respond very well to training as they like to have a job to do. They are keen, alert and generally eager to please. In a single litter, the personalities can vary from very busy to very laid back. They are a faithful breed and should be kindly disposed toward stock.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

A good 30 minute walk a day and a good run a few times a week should be enough for their physical well being. However, they like jobs to do so teaching them simple obedience commands,tricks etc will help to keep their mind active. They crave human attention and will not cope well if left in a back yard with no interaction with their family.

In saying this there are some Border Collies who are happy to laze around all day. The amount of excercise/mental stimulation will vary from dog to dog.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

If a first time dog owner leads an active lifestyle and has the time and resources to include their dog in their daily activities, a Border Collie would be fine to own as a first dog. Attending an obedience class would be strongly recommended to any first time Border Collie owners, to help teach training techniques.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

You can guarantee that a Border Collie if left to its own devices will find something to occupy its time, not always to the owners liking! I personally wouldn't recommend a Border Collie to a home where it was left alone for lenghty periods of time.

9. How much grooming is required?

A good brush once a week is enough to keep a Border's coat in good condition. However, twice weekly brushing is recommended when they are losing their coat. They lose coat seasonally.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

Any untrained dog would be too boisterous for very small children or infirm people. A Border Collie is no exception.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

Whilst the Border Collie is a relitavely healthy breed, there are some hereditary problems to be aware of. In saying this RESPONSIBLE breeders will DNA test their breeding stock to protect against producing some problems.

We can now DNA test for CL, CEA and TNS. You can read more about these diseases and the testing available at www.bccnsw.com.

Breeders should also be hip and elbow scoring their breeding stock to minimise the chance of HD and OCD. You can read more about these as well at the BCC of NSW website.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

Some basic questions to ask would be:

• Has the puppy been immunised and regularly wormed and can we have the vaccination certificate?
  
• Will you be giving me with the puppy a copy of his current diet and a suggested feeding program?
  
• If we have any problems do you mind if we call for some advice?
  
• Is the pup registered with the Royal NSW Canine Council?
  
• Where is he used to sleeping and what training has he had?
  
• What is the temperament of the pup’s parents? Can we see them?
  
• What risk do the pups have of carrying CL (or having it) or any other problems?
  
• Have the parents been DNA tested for hereditary diseases ? The breeder should be able to give you a copy of the certificates.
  
• How much does it cost to look after a Border Collie properly?
  

Don't be afraid to ask a breeder any question that comes to mind. A reputable breeder should be open to any questions you may want to ask. There is never a silly question when it comes to our dogs!

The BCC of NSW has extensive information about the breed and as an extention of these questions, it would be worth a visit to their website.

[piper]

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

I have owned border collies for 15 years, in that time I have participated in obedience, agility, herding and showing. As yet I have not bred a litter.

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

The breed originated in the border regions of Scotland to herd sheep. As a show sog Australia is listed as country of development.

3. How common is it in Australia?

I would say that the border collie is one of the more popular breeds in Australia, as a working dog as well as a performance dog or pet.

4. What is the average lifespan?

We had 1 live to 14 and 1 to 12. This seems to be a fairly comman lifesp anfor border collies.

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

They are usually very biddable and want to be with you and do things with you. They are easily trainable but this has drawbacks as well as they can quickly learn to do things you don't want as well as what you do want. They are typically lively and active, but should have an off switch. Ideally they are ready to go all day long if that is what you want but if you re having a quiet day they should cope with that too, so long as they receive some mental stimulation as well. I have also found some border collies can tend to be a little anxious - early socialisation and training can assist with managing this.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

I find mental stimulation to be as important. They can get by without a walk if you keep the mind busy. Ideally they require a decent walk or run each day. A good active game can substitute - we often spend 30 mins playing frisbee in lieu of a walk. The chance for a decent off lead run every so often is beneficial as well.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

If they are comitted into putting in the time for physical and metal stimulation and want a dog to be a part of activities with them, then yes. Training would also be recommended both for socialisation and mental stimulation reasons.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

It depends on the individual - my first boy was a quiet laid back boy and was fine on his own. My current 2 girls I would say no. Being an active and intelligent breed they could be inclined to create their own entertainment if left alone for long periods of time, and it may not be the kind of entertainment you or the neighbours appreciate.

9. How much grooming is required?

It depends on the coat. 1 of my current girls needs a good brush every week, the other can get by with less as she has a coat that doesn't really tangle. My previous 2 boys 1 needed a couple of quick brushes a week to keep his pants tangle free, while the other was 1 good brush each week. On average I would say once a week.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

They can be quite boisterous so training would be recommended to be around young children or the infirm. With training they can make fantastic companions regardless of age. My boys used to do nursing home visits and love it, and my young girl Jazz is brilliant with kids.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

There are 3 hereditary diseases that are able to be tested for - CL (Ceroid Lipofuscinosis), TNS (Trapped Neutrophil Syndrrome) and CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly)/ Good breeders will DNA test their breeding stock for these diseases as well as xray for hip and rlbow dysplasia.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

As mentioned above, reputable breeders DNA test their breeding stock CL, TNS and CEA. It is acceptable that the puppies are not tested for these but the parents should be. If a parent is a carrier of 1 of these diseases it can still be used in a breeding program but the other parent must be clear/normal to prevent any pups being affected. Carrier puppies do not have the disease and will never develop it, but may pass it on if bred from to another carrier or affected dog. If they state that the parents are "clear by parentage" ask if they have any documentation to verify this (it is acceptable not to DNA test a dog where both parents have been DNA tested as clear/normal for the same disease)

Other than this have the puppies been vaccinated, wormed, vet checked etc. Benshiva gives some good ideas of things to ask a breeder of any breed :D

Edited August 27, 2009 by piper

[dancinbcs]

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc

Breeder. I bought my first Border Collie 26 years ago and became involved in Showing, Obedience, Agility, Herding and bred my first litter 21 years ago. I have been on the hereditary diseases sub-committee of the BCC Club of NSW for over 20 years so have been heavily involved with the research and development of DNA testing.

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

The breed originated as a working sheepdog in the border regions of England with Scotland and Wales. Australia is the country of development of the “show” Border Collie as the first standards were drawn up here and they were shown here from the 1930s.They were not recognised as a show dog in the UK until the about 50 years later.

3. How common is it in Australia?

Definitely a common breed these days. We have often had the top entry at All Breeds shows over the past twenty years and the intelligence and versatility of the breed makes them very popular for obedience, agility, flyball, dancing, herding and devoted companions.

4. What is the average lifespan?

14 years is about average but it can vary from 11 to 16 depending on the lines. Many Borders are still successfully shown until 10 or 11 years of age.

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

They should be highly intelligent, loyal, devoted and extremely willing to please their owner. Any Border who is not like this has an incorrect temperament. Activity levels range from relatively laid back to hyperactive maniacs. These can occur in the same litter so it is not just a matter of different lines. Temperament and personality are fairly obvious by about 7 weeks.

All Border Collie puppies are active compared to other breeds. It always fascinates me to see litters of other breeds at the vets in open baskets being brought in for vaccination. ;) With Borders if you tried this, the first one would be out before the second one was even in, let alone a whole litter. :D Basically, they never just sit still and look cute. If they are not asleep, they have to be doing “something”

As adults most have an “off switch”, so they will be as active as the circumstances require/allow then just chill out and snooze until the next bout of activity. Calmness can be fostered by rewarding calm behaviour.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

Anything from 30 minutes (walk/run/ball,etc) to several hours a day. It depends on the dog and the situation. Working dogs can easily cover 40km in a day but most don’t need to have that amount of exercise. The more exercise they have the more they crave. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise and many Borders are happy with less physical exercise if they have plenty of interaction with their owners.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

Again, it depends on the dog and the owner. If you are keen to embrace some form of training/competition then yes, a first time dog owner could cope well. The biggest problem with first time owners is that the dog is often smarter than the owner and it ends up with the dog training the owner instead of the other way around. ;) If you are not experienced with dogs, you need to have a good mentor or contact with experienced trainers to successfully raise a Border Collie.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

Sure, they can occupy themselves but it may not be with an activity the owner approves of. I find that bitches cope better on their own than dogs do but they are a breed that needs to be with their owners as much as possible so I prefer them in homes where they are not on their own for longer than a maximum of six to eight hours a day and preferably a lot less than that.

9. How much grooming is required?

For a long coated breed, they are relatively low maintenance. A bath and preferably blow dry every month or two with a good brushing of 15-30 min once a week is fine for a pet. Show dogs are bathed for every show weekend. The only trimming that needs to be done is the hair around and under the feet. As with all breeds, the nails should be kept short.

Once they are desexed the coat becomes more woolly and doesn’t shed cleanly like it does with the entire dogs. When they shed twice a year it is easier to groom them with something like a coat king if they are desexed but you would never need one on an entire dog.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?)

Like any active dog of this size or larger they need to be trained in basic manners to avoid them knocking over very small children or infirm people. Once trained they make great Pets as Therapy dogs.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder?

(eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

Answers to 11 and 12 together.

Now that DNA testing is available for our three main problems they should be one of the healthiest breeds available.

All breeders should know the DNA status of all their breeding stock for CL, TNS and CEA by either testing or parentage before breeding. Puppy buyers need to be supplied with copies of the test results to prove that at least one parent of every litter is DNA normal/clear for each condition. It is fine for carriers to be bred from provided they are only bred to partners that do not carry the same condition. Puppies do not need to be tested unless they are going to be bred from and they have a parent who carries any of the three conditions. If testing is needed it can be done at any time before before breeding. /it does not need to be done when they are puppies.

Most breeders also hip and elbow x-ray and score all breeding stock as well. Elbow scores should preferably be 0 or 1 for each elbow and hips are usually considered fine for breeding up to a score of about 6 on each hip. If they score a few points above this and have other qualities a breeder thinks are worth continuing with they will usually be bred to a partner with a much lower score. There is no actual cut off score for hips and elbows but breeders need to be able to explain why they have bred from a dog with a higher score.

One final point for puppy buyers.

Steer clear of anyone charging more for coloured puppies than they do for Black/white. There is nothing special about coloured Borders other than the fact that their coat is a different colour. They are still the same dogs under the coat and many puppy farmers are cashing in on the public's desire for colours. The colours are recessive so most breeders get them sometimes but colour is usually way down the list of desirable characteristics that reputable breeders consider when breeding. Good dogs do occur in all the colours occasionally but breeding for colour first leads to a decline in quality so anyone offering colours at inflated prices is putting colour before qualtiy. Most good quality puppies from health tested parents are currently around $1000 or less regardless of colour, sex or register.

[luvsdogs]

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

I have owned a border collie since 1993 when I bought April. After she passed away I bought Tilba in 2008.

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

As stated above, the border regions of England & Scotland.

3. How common is it in Australia?

Quite common.

4. What is the average lifespan?

April lived to 7 weeks short of 15 yrs. I think the average is 13 yrs. I did hear of one 17 yrs.

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

I have found my 2 to be friendly, willing to please & loveable, although April was weary of some people & dogs. Tilba is totally different & I put this down to age of purchase & socialisation. From what I've heard of some other bcs my 2 were/are calm in comparison & not over the top.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

They need a quite a lot of exercise & more importantly exercise the mind.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

If they were willing to give the dog a job to do such as agility, flyball, obedience etc. Learn all they can about the breed before purchase & socialise well to all the dog is likely to experience as an adult.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

As long as the dog has something to do at other times.

9. How much grooming is required?

Ive found they only need a good brushing once a week & every day or so while molting. For a long coated breed it's easy care most of the time.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

While they are young yes. They would need to be watched at all times as with any breed of dog.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

Breeding stock should be tested & clear of CL, CEA & TNS on at least one side. Elbows & hips of the parents should also be x-rayed with low scores.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

Ask about the above tests & to see the results. What is the temperament of the parents like? Have they been socialised to all types & ages people/children, other dogs, kitchen & household sounds, traffic noise, the lawn mower & vacuum cleaner?

Are their lines healthy & long lived?

Do I get a diet sheet & puppy pack?

Have the puppies been wormed, vaccinated & microchipped?

Edited August 30, 2009 by luvsdogs

[benshiva]

How very sad that of all the Border Collie owners on this forum, only four took the time to answer the questions here This could prove very useful to those who are looking at owning a BC

[O-Ren]

I will give this a go....as a BC owner's point of view

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

First time owner and devotee to desexed female BC

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

As stated above, the border regions of England & Scotland.

3. How common is it in Australia?

Common +++

4. What is the average lifespan?

Average 12ish, although this is average (from what I have read)

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

My border collie is very sensitive to emotions and tone, which is great for training and instructions; wary of strangers, although I adopted her at 6months and so there is a socialisation aspect to consider. Very willing to please, not a stubborn bone in her body, loves to be taught new things. A little neurotic with her willingness to please and impress, but i put this down to her intelligence as a BC. She can be As sooky and laid back as a cat on the lounge or under the quilt for sleepins or as active and precise as a fulltime herder ready for a dawn beach walk, game or training.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

I would say my BC needs mental exercise more than physical. She is NOT motivated by food AT ALL.... everything is done for praise, she is happy to try new tricks for an hour a day or fetch for an hour, or a walk so she can take in new smells and sights......if the border collie "stare" is in effect........its exercise.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

As long as they are prepared for the intelligence of the breed. Socialisation and mental stimulation is a full time gig. They love to work, mentally and physically, else bad habits like barking ensue. I think their intelligence can turn negative if neglected or misguided, this is a very senstive breed IMO.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

My BC is fine on her own, as long as once I am home, its game on.....or walk time..... or interaction inside on the lounge.....but this dog cannot be ignored or left out else bad habits, separation anxiety develops.

9. How much grooming is required?

Brushing usually once a fortnight for me.....although she loves the whole thing and would have me do it every day.....extra during the shedding stage coming into summer, but its not a constant shedding all year round.....easy coat....reminds me of HAIR rather than fur...bath as needed, but mostly with a good diet, coat and skin remains healthy and self sufficient.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

Whilst i would never reccommend unsupervised with children (same rule for ANY breed). I am confident my BC would only bring a child a stick or toy and hope he/she would throw it. Or, lick the childs face and perform the horse-shoe dance around him......... as proven with nephew....But on the other hand, her BC x friend likes to herd children into corners of the yard/room.............

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

I will leave that to the experts.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

Again, a question for the experts....but I agree with the above answers.

[CaseyKay]

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

Owner, dogs sports: agility, obedience and tracking. Grew up with BC's on a sheep farm. Have had 2 boys in the past and currently 3 girls, aged 9 years, 7 years and puppy.

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

Answered above

3. How common is it in Australia?

Common

4. What is the average lifespan?

12 years? They don't seem particularly long lived for their size.

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

There is always difference in temperament in all breeds I guess. I know a couple of border collies who are very laid back pets. Mine have all been the sort who will give 100% when you ask it of them, and then just like to hang out when nothing much is going on, provided they get enough exercise and brainwork. They like to be with their owners and they like to do stuff. All of my girls love people and are non-territorial, terrible watch dogs, but the boys were good watch dogs and tended to be more suspicious of strangers. I really dislike seeing overly reactive or aggressive border collies.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

Mine get a couple of hours off lead a day, half an hour of fetch and most days some training. If it rains or snows, they still need a walk or you are going to have to amuse them inside with a game of find the toy or something. Once they are mature they might not mind missing a walk on the odd day, but I would feel too guilty if they had just stayed home all day.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

Depends if they want to DO something with the dog, agility etc. There are easier breeds if someone just wants a nice pet that you can walk around the park once a day and then it sits on the rug while you watch TV.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

I'm sure they can occupy themselves very well... but this might make their owners cry. Maddie as an only puppy was a digaholic on the odd occasions we left her outside, even if we were home. It's amazing how fast a small puppy can dig a hole the size of a bomb crater. I don't think they are a breed that should be left alone for long periods. Maybe if you have two, but even then, I'm not sure they would be happy in a situation of being alone for 8+ hours a day. But if they were, their owners would need to be very committed to exercising the dog before and after work and doing some brain work with them.

9. How much grooming is required?

Depends on the coat, but one of mine about once a week and the others about twice a week, one of them really enjoys grooming though, so every night for her. They have a good coat where they can be horribly muddy and once they dry out the mud all falls off and they look stunning again. Don't seem to have a particularly doggy smell.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

I would say in general yes (unless well trained). One of mine does rest home pet therapy but she is a very quiet, people orientated dog now she is 7 years old. As puppies I would say definately too boisterous for little children.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

Yes. CL, CEA, TNS. Epilepsy seems to crop up in the breed; one of mine is epileptic. Not sure if or how that is inherited.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

Have the above health tests been done on the parents? Are they clear or if a carrier of CEA been mated to a clear?

Other than that general questions one would ask a breeder of any breed about the parents and how the puppies have been raised.

[Scarlet]

Thought I'd answer as a pet only owner.

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

Like most people I have never bred or shown nor do I have any interest in either. I just want a dog as a pet and companion. I have played around with obedience, flyball and very briefly herding. I have had 3 border collies over the last 12 ys but I have had a few other breeds before them.

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

Answered above

3. How common is it in Australia?

Common

4. What is the average lifespan?

Answered before. I am waiting for my 6yr old to act like an adult though!

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

I think quite different from dog to dog but overall quite intelligent, quite active and love people. They love being part of the family and being around people. They can be a bit sensitive in that they don't like raised voices, especially not at them. They seem very alert to changes in your mood or voice -good for training as a deep growl has them behaving. They do like to please too.

Mine have all loved people and children and most animals. They will chase running cats if they don't know them and they have a tendancy to round up chooks.

My border collies love other border collies. When I was fostering I was looking to add another dog to the family but I wanted a dog older than my present girl and I didn't want another BC. But I ended up getting quite a young BC because he just got on so well with my girl. She got on well with all the previous foster dogs but this relationship was just so special. And of course he is just lovely. He has a "nicer" personality than my girl but he is definately not as smart as her. She is bossy with most other dogs.

I think they are both pretty laid back for border collies. They definately have an off switch but are ready to play at the drop of a hat.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

Mine get about 30 mins walk most days with a run off lead at least once a week. I have a very small yard but my girl is ball obsessed and has the ball thrown hundreds of times throughout the day-with the other chasing her chase the ball. Charlie, the younger one would love a big run every day but he doesn't get it and his behaviour isn't any worse for it. Mine love playing hidings-both people hiding and me hiding toys for them to find. They have a lot of company and I find this more important than a lot of exercise.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

I've had 2 as pups and they were very easy to train and not very destructive but they had lots of energy! Luckily I had 4 boys to keep them occupied - I don't think I could cope with a border collie pup now! I think first time owners would have to commit to training and be prepared for the dog to get a lot of company. They are not a dog to cope with being alone all day then confined to the yard alone when people are home from work - not that any dogs are really. But being working dogs they can become a bit neurotic if not give a reasonable amount of stimulation.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

Mine were lucky not to have to spend a lot of time home alone. But when Maddy did it wasn't a problem. Maddy was an only dog for her first 3 years. Now they sometimes have 10hr days alone but there is 2 of them and they are no longer pups - being 5yrs and 3yrs. I think it's possible but they would probably need a good walk in the morning and lots of company at night.

9. How much grooming is required?

I'm pretty slack here. I should brush every week but I don't. I can be good for ages then get slack. If they get the odd knot - usually near their bottom or behind their ears I cut them out. I doubt you could do this to a show dog. They have a good coat that doesn't hold too much dirt / mud and they don't usually have a doggy smell. Mine can go 6 months or longer without a bath but they do swim so I count that as a bath!

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

I think it depends how fussy you are with your children. My children grew up with large dogs-not border collies- and they learnt to get out of the way or get knocked over. Very small children need to be supervised around all dogs though. Mine are excellent with children alhough I do watch carefully when first introduced as they sometimes get too excited initially and could knock small children over. I'm more careful with other people's children than I was with my own.

I think there are better choices for an infirm person - definately not a pup but an older, calmer dog could be fine.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

Best left for breeders to answer. The parents of the pups I've bought were tested for some things but I forget what now.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

Again I'll leave that to breeders.

[bluecollie]

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

I am the proud owner of 4 BC's and am a devoted BC Rescuer!

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

England, Scotland & Wales for herding

3. How common is it in Australia?

Common and unfortunately too common in the backyards of inexperienced BC owners.

4. What is the average lifespan?

14 yrs on average, my 1st lived till 15 and a half years old.

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

Loyal, extremely intelligent and sensitive to their owners state of mind. They are fun loving. energetic, easily bored in the wrong environment, protective of their family if suspicious of their surrounds.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

BC's do have a a great level of stamina so don't tire easily but they require more mental stimulation then physical stimulation. Once a routine is developed between a BC and its family the BC will remain happy & contant as long as regular walks & exercise is included...

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

Yes I do think so but only an intelligent dog owner who has the time regularly to devote to their exercise & grooming requirements.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

They can but due to their loving sociable nature would prefer not to naturally... though they will cope as long as their owner dedicates time to them each day..

9. How much grooming is required?

Ideally they need to be brushed once a week or as close to that as possible - this makes it easier for the owner to handle their coat shedding come winter.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

This depends on the individual dog I think as some BC's are more highly strung whilst others are naturally perfect companion pets.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

CL (Ceroid Lipofuscinosis), TNS (Trapped Neutrophil Syndrrome) and CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly) also hip dysplasia are the ones I am aware of.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

* Ask to meet the dogs parents?

* Are the puppies' parents "certified"?

* What is the family history?

* How have they socialized the pups?

* What vaccines has the puppy had?

* Have the puppies been wormed?

* What is the breeder currently feeding the puppy?

* Have any of the puppies in the litter been sick?

* What visits has the puppies had with the veterinarian?

* Is there a Health certificate for the pup?

* Does the breeder belong to a breed club?

* If I buy a puppy from you and have problems with it, can I call you?

[Poo-Fong]

Oops, just found this... ;) I decided to answer even though I don't actually own a BC at the moment (I lost my last boy on NYE ) as they are still a breed that is close to my heart, and one I will always maintain a keen interest in :D

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

Ex-breeder, exhibitor and owner since 1991

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

This has been answered very well in the other posts ;)

3. How common is it in Australia?

Very common - unfortunately also popular with less-than-scrupulous BYB's who tend to breed for "rare" colours

4. What is the average lifespan?

I'd say around the 12 - 15yr mark; my oldest made it to 14 & 3/4. My grandmother's BC in the UK lived till nearly 17 though - there are always exceptions

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

A loyal, intelligent, active dog who thrives on routine and/or having a 'job' to do; extremely willing to please their owner; friendly without being ridiculously effusive; great with kids who are great with dogs! ;); they are very much individuals - no two of mine were ever the same and consequently what worked for one training-wise didn't necessarily work for the others; I found bitches to be a little more independant than the dogs - my boys were my cuddlers, the girls had better things to do most of the time!

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

Whilst regular physical exercise is of course essential for this active breed (and all breeds for that matter!) I found that the most important thing was mental exercise... you need to spend time every day with a BC making them use their brains for good - idle paws are the devil's playmate in this breed!

They thrive on having a job to do, be it obedience/agility training, or jogging with their owner, or chasing a ball/frisbee, or learning and practicing new tricks... my first BC used to get such a kick out of learning new things! He had a whole repertoire of "party tricks" such as fetching raw eggs without breaking them, rolling over in both directions, playing dead (complete with pointed fingers as the gun - "bang, you're dead!"), keeping a balloon from hitting the floor, spinning in alternate clockwise and anti-clockwise circles with a flick of my finger, talking with the most awesome "moo woo" sound on the command "Say Moo"... he was amazing. He did get his CD title but his handicap (me! ;) ) stopped him from achieving all he should have in the performance rings.

As far as physical exercise goes though, most BC's will take as much as you give them... any time spent with you is good time :D

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

Yes, as long as that owner was prepared to put some effort into working with their dog and including it as part of the family - they are NOT a breed to be left in the backyard and given food once a day... the same can of course be said for any breed really but BC's will create their own amusement if their need for mental stimulus is ignored :D

I got my first BC at 15 (the boy I mentioned above) as a reasonably novice owner - we had had family dogs but I was too young to have had any real input into their training etc - and whilst he did test me, especially as he was going through his teenage stage, he was a joy to own. I was committed to making him the best dog he could be though.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

Hmmm.... yes, but to a point - as I said before I found them to be a dog who thrives on mental exercise and routine and as long as they know that they will have "people time" every single day, and will have plenty to occupy their minds whilst alone, they can and do cope reasonably well.

If an owner is prepared to spend time before and after work with their BC, training/playing/just being together etc the dog will quickly realise that this is the routine and will usually cope well.

9. How much grooming is required?

A reasonable amount - I found that if the dogs weren't going through a major seasonal coat drop then once a week was enough... however, coats differ and the thicker, heavier, fluffier coats will require more regular grooming than a good moderate double coat. Puppies, especially male puppies, require more regular grooming as they change from puppy coat to adult.

The usual spots for knots and tangles are behind the ears, under the forelegs, the pants and tail and the leg feathers but if you don't stay on top of the body coat, especially when moulting, you will end up with a thick felted undercoat, especially around the loin area, over the rump and through the ruff.

Train your BC from an early age to accept that grooming is a necessary (and enjoyable!) part of life and you won't have a problem... I used to brush my baby pups every single day, even just for 30 seconds or so, and so I never had to fight with my adults :D

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

This is a very subjective question - when I had my first child my last two BC's were 11 and 8 and so were past the bouncy stage but then again, my old girl was never really a bouncy dog even as a puppy. This can vary so much from dog to dog, pedigree to pedigree, and child to child!! ;)

Any dog who is to spend time around children and/or infirm people needs to be taught the correct way to behave, and any child who is to spend time around a dog needs to be taught the correct way to behave also! ;) Some dogs (in any/all breeds) are inherently quieter and less boisterous than others - this is where a good breeder comes in who will assess their puppies and match them to their new owners according to temperament/personality and the family situation it will be living in.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

Yes; as mentioned below, any reputable breeder should be DNA testing (or breeding with certified clear by parentage) their stock for CL, CEA and TNS, as well as x-raying hips and elbows. Dancinbcs puts it very well below:

All breeders should know the DNA status of all their breeding stock for CL, TNS and CEA by either testing or parentage before breeding. Puppy buyers need to be supplied with copies of the test results to prove that at least one parent of every litter is DNA normal/clear for each condition. It is fine for carriers to be bred from provided they are only bred to partners that do not carry the same condition. Puppies do not need to be tested unless they are going to be bred from and they have a parent who carries any of the three conditions. If testing is needed it can be done at any time before before breeding. /it does not need to be done when they are puppies.

Most breeders also hip and elbow x-ray and score all breeding stock as well. Elbow scores should preferably be 0 or 1 for each elbow and hips are usually considered fine for breeding up to a score of about 6 on each hip. If they score a few points above this and have other qualities a breeder thinks are worth continuing with they will usually be bred to a partner with a much lower score. There is no actual cut off score for hips and elbows but breeders need to be able to explain why they have bred from a dog with a higher score.

I'd just like to reiterate that there is no real problem with breeding responsibly from carriers of any of the three main hereditary diseases... we are so much better off now that we can go in with a clear picture as to our dogs' genetic health status - as opposed to flying blind in the past and having to rule out some fantastic dogs from breeding programs due to the unknown. No BC should ever have to be afflicted with these diseases ever again - the development of the DNA tests was the biggest gift ever to be given to Border Collies & the reputable breeders who first and foremost have the breed's welfare at heart

If I was still breeding I would still also be doing regular physical eye exams, even on DNA clear stock, just to ensure that no other eye problems were creeping in... I had bred a few pups with PPMs - that was something I was keeping an eye on (no pun intended! ;)) I can't stress enough though - make sure that any breeder you go to can back up any claims about their dogs' genetic health status with copies of certificates!

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

Healthwise - see above; and again - make sure your chosen breeder can back up all claimed health statuses (is that a word? ) with certificates.

I can't really add any more to what's already been listed by Benshiva, Dancinbcs, and pretty much everyone else who has answered so far ;) but I would just say - do your research, find a breeder who you would be happy to deal with for the next 12 - 15 years or so and take your time - your patience will be rewarded tenfold when you take home just the right puppy from just the right breeder :D

[Beauie]

Wonder if someone can answer a question or two for me about the BC's colours.

As a young girl all I ever saw was the typical B&W...can someone enlighten me as to where the other colours seen in the breed nowadays, originated from (ie: the red & whites, Choc/whites and especially the very striking Blue & whites).

Also regarding breeding of the colours...can you breed all colours to each other or are there some "not recommended" type breedings.

Thanks in advance

Fantastic breed...my very first dog was a BC X Kelpie....he looked very BC & was B&W with tan above the eyes and around the sides/white area of his chest.

[nicolatu]

Wonder if someone can answer a question or two for me about the BC's colours.

As a young girl all I ever saw was the typical B&W...can someone enlighten me as to where the other colours seen in the breed nowadays, originated from (ie: the red & whites, Choc/whites and especially the very striking Blue & whites).

Also regarding breeding of the colours...can you breed all colours to each other or are there some "not recommended" type breedings.

Thanks in advance

Fantastic breed...my very first dog was a BC X Kelpie....he looked very BC & was B&W with tan above the eyes and around the sides/white area of his chest.

I am not a breeder but have been doing research on this breed. I am pretty sure Choc/Whites and Blue/Whites are recessive colours. Breeders usually breed for temperaments and stuff like that but not colours. Be careful of anyone who charge more for Choc/Whites and Blue/Whites. They are usually not good breeders (some breeders told me that). Good luck.

[CaseyKay]

As with all breeds, you can't breed merles to merles. As with all breeds, breeding specifically to get certain currently trendy colours is a poor reason to be breeding 2 dogs together.

The most common colour black and white is a dominant colour BB or Bb. The recessive of that gene is bb (chocolate)

Blue is dilute of Black, a different gene. So B- dd would be a blue and white puppy, you can also get bb dd, dilute of chocolate known as "lilac" which I have seen photos online of but not an actual real life dog, as I imagine it would be very very rare. Tri-colour, merle and "red" are different genes again.

My puppy is blue and white, as a small puppy she was light-ish grey, now at 6 months she is a dark steel blue, you can mainly see the difference beside my 2 black and white girls in the sunlight.

[dancinbcs]

Wonder if someone can answer a question or two for me about the BC's colours.

As a young girl all I ever saw was the typical B&W...can someone enlighten me as to where the other colours seen in the breed nowadays, originated from (ie: the red & whites, Choc/whites and especially the very striking Blue & whites).

Also regarding breeding of the colours...can you breed all colours to each other or are there some "not recommended" type breedings.

Thanks in advance

Fantastic breed...my very first dog was a BC X Kelpie....he looked very BC & was B&W with tan above the eyes and around the sides/white area of his chest.

The basic pigment colours of chocolate and blue are recessive to black and if they both occur together, it creates lilac. All the other colours like red, tri, sable and merle are actually coat patterns, because they only affect the hair not the basic pigment of the skin. All the coat patterns can occur on with any pigment colour. The original colours in Australia where black/white, black/white/tan (tri) and black/tan but all colours/patterns did occur here, except for merle. All the colours/patterns including merle where and are seen overseas.

Over the years, the black/tan was dropped and chocolate and blue added to the Australian standard as dogs of these colours occured occasionally. Reds also occured but many breeders drowned them at birth. I remember a time when the greatest insult you could direct at a breeder, was to say they had produced reds. Times changed and some prominent breeders started showing reds, that were at the time usually called sables. We now have no way of knowing which of the the early dogs registered as sable, where in fact sable and which ones where red. Eventually, in the late 80s, red was added to the standard but so far sable has not been. Merle, which is a dominant coat pattern, was then introduced with a couple of imports a few years ago.

Personally, from observing BCs over 27 years, I believe the fastest way to lose quality is to breed colours together. The best coloured dogs have always had at least one black parent. The majority of better quality dogs are black so if you want to breed for quality you will not do it mixing colours. Merles should never be bred to reds or dogs carrying red because merle cannot usually be seen in a red coat and it may lead to accidently breeding a red that is actually a merle to another merle, with the associated problems of merle/merle breeding. Incidently, breeding a red with black pigment to either a chocolate or a blue, will result in all black puppies, unless the red also carries the recessive pigment colour of it's partner.

[Beauie]

Many thanks Nicolatu, Caseykay & especially Dancinbcs....

I do appreciate your replies and the information... was just always curious about the other colours.

As a breeder myself (not of BC's of course) I was interested to know when the other colours began to appear in the breed here in Oz and what colours were allowable to be bred with each other.

I certainly realise that breeding just for colour alone does not produce quality dogs.

The BC is a beautiful breed and so intelligent and I wish you all the very best with your dogs & in your future plans.

Thanks again

Edited March 21, 2010 by Beauie

[CaseyKay]

If anyone is interested in colour or hereditary disease genetics of Border collies there is a fantastic resource called Anadune Border Collie Pedigree Database (you need to email them for a log in) and you can theoretically breed border collies to your hearts content

[Guest Kate_Summer]

Do border collie come with a short coat as well, or are they all medium/long coated dogs?

[dancinbcs]

The ANKC breed standard specifies "Double coated, with a moderately long, dense, medium textured topcoat while the undercoat is short, soft and dense, making a weather resisting protection, with abundant coat to form mane, breeching and brush" but short coats are eligible for shows in NZ and some other countries, but it would be rare to see one in a showring. The non-ANKC working Border Collies come in a variety of coats from smooth to medium/long.

[Steve]

We have a rough outline ready for what we will be doing for the Border Collie breed in our new registry.

If anyone is interested in giving us some feed back on that before we put the final tick on it all your input woud be appreciated.

Breeders and owners of show and or working dogs of this breed are welcome to have a look.

please email [email protected]