Considering your first Border Collie? 

“Border Collies are very bright, quick and more than a little weird.” (Donald McCaig)

Border Collies are among the most intelligent of dogs. They learn quickly and are good problem-solvers. But a fast rate of learning isn’t limited to just the behaviors YOU want the dog to know, such as come, sit, and down. It also means they pick up bad and even dangerous habits just as fast. They are also extremely active dogs, both physically and mentally. Leaving a Border Collie alone in the backyard all day is not enough physical or mental stimulation. A Border Collie doesn’t want just to “be outside” for the sake of chasing squirrels or digging holes; he wants to have a job working with YOU, his partner.

As for weird…the possibilities are endless. If you can’t imagine living with a dog that may bark at or dig obsessively at reflections of light on the ceiling or floor…if you or your cat won’t enjoy being stared at for hours on end…if you’d like a dog who will tire of chasing a ball or Frisbee after you’ve thrown it two dozen times or so…a Border Collie may not be right for you.

It simply can not be stressed enough: Border Collies need A LOT of quality time interacting with their owners. This need is usually only satisfied by a job of some sort (focused training, or at least very dedicated play time). Their need for a job is rarely satisfied by the roles of couch potato or backyard lawn ornament.

Think you can provide enough physical and mental exercise to a Border Collie, and can put up with the quirks? Please take the time to read these informative links:

USBCC’s Living With Border Collies 

BCSA’s The Border Collie – Energy Machine

Read the above and sure you’re ready for a Border Collie? Consider rescuing a great and loving dog who will bond with you for life!

Border Collie Rescue Central at Border Collie Society of America

Sweet Border Collie Rescue at Glen Highland Farm in New York