Border collie dog. Description, features, types, care and price of the border collie breed

The Border Collie is recognized as the smartest dog. For her intelligence, good nature and activity, she is loved by dog ​​breeders all over the world. This is a shepherd dog, but can be a watchman, guard, guide or rescue dog. She enjoys serving people and can become a wonderful companion. This is an ideal dog for families with children and lovers of outdoor activities. But before getting such a pet, you need to study the description of the breed, its pros and cons, and maintenance rules.

History of the origin of the border collie breed

Border Collie: standard

Head

Torso

Limbs

Wool

Border Collie colors

Border Collie Personality

Features of education

Caring for an adult dog

Nutrition

Health

How to choose a puppy

How much does a border collie puppy cost?

Photos/videos from Instagram users

Description

Border collies are the best representatives of herding dogs. They are often called the smartest of all dog species in the world. Collies are excellent working dogs due to their agility and endurance. The animals have always been a favorite choice of farmers and ranchers as they have successfully assisted in herding livestock. If you are ready to raise your animal with love, train it consistently and fairly, and give it plenty of exercise, this is the breed for you.

How much does a border collie cost?

An animal from a decent nursery will cost 50,000 - 60,000 rubles, and chocolate-colored borders are more expensive. In advertisements from single sellers, the average price tag for a border collie puppy with the RKF metric is approximately the same. The cost of babies from titled parents can reach 70,000 rubles. Purebred dogs with minor defects cost 25,000 - 35,000 rubles. Metis without documents, who are barred from entering exhibitions and competitions, are often given away free of charge or for a nominal fee.

Appearance

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The parameters of the individuals are as follows:

• male height: 48-56 cm, weight – 14-20 kg;
• height of females: 46-53 cm, weight – 12-19 kg.

The description says that the dog has an athletic and muscular body. Everything about this pet shows its strength: muscular legs, standing body, neck and wide chest. They are agile individuals that move with grace and stealth.

The skull is quite wide, the back of the head is not pronounced. The teeth and jaws are strong, with a perfect scissor bite. This means that the upper teeth closely overlap the lower teeth and fit into the jaws.

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Medium-sized ears tend to stand erect or partially erect.

A distinctive feature of the pets is their almond-shaped eyes and intense gaze. It reflects their high level of intelligence and ability to accurately focus on sheep or other objects. Eye color is usually brown, although some individuals have brown or blue eyes. There are also animals with different eyes.

When viewed from the front, the limbs are parallel; when viewed from the side, the pasterns are slightly inclined.

The paws are oval shaped, with strong and durable pads. The fingers are arched and close to each other. The claws are short and strong.

The tail is moderately long, reaching at least to the hock joint.

The coat of pets can be short-haired or moderately long-haired, as well as long-haired. In both cases, the topcoat is dense and medium in texture, while the undercoat is soft and dense. It provides weather resistance.

The coat color is usually black with white spots. Dogs also come in many colors, combinations and patterns. The colors of this smooth-haired animal can be as follows:

• Black and white.
• Tricolor.
• Blue merle.
• Blue merle tricolor.
• Red.
• Red tricolor.
• Red merle.
• Red merle tricolor.
• Blue.
• Grey.
• Merle slate.
• Lilac, lilac or lilac.
• Lilac tricolor.
• Sable.
• Brindle.
• Brown.
• Chocolate.
• Marble.
• Golden.
• Spotted.

Breed standard

The Border Collie standard describes the dog as graceful, harmonious, but at the same time strong and athletic. Animals with an excessively rough build or too shaggy coat are not welcome.

The document shows the optimal sizes of a border collie:

• the ideal height of a border collie for males is 53 cm, for females – a few cm less (47-52 cm);
• The weight of the animal is proportional to its height. Usually it ranges from 15-22 kg.

The animal's movements are free and graceful. When running, the dog raises its paws minimally - it seems as if it is sneaking at great speed. Representatives of the breed are excellent jumpers - they easily overcome obstacles that are several times higher than their own height.

Official description of the breed (FCI standard No. 297):
Become	Breed characteristics
Head	Wide, proportional to the body. The distance from the stop to the occipital protuberance is equal to the distance from the stop to the tip of the nose. The stop is clearly visible.
Muzzle	Medium length, wedge-shaped.
Nose	The nostrils are wide. The lobe is black; in animals of blue color it is gray. If the Border Collie dog has a liver or chocolate color, then brown pigmentation is allowed.
Jaws	Powerful, set in a scissor bite.
Eyes	Almond-shaped, widely set. The color of the iris is brown. The merle Border Collie may have a blue tint. The look is attentive, thoughtful, calm. This feature is reflected in any photograph.
Ears	Medium, rather dense, standing or semi-hanging. They are located at a considerable distance from each other.
Neck	Long, athletic, graceful. Smoothly expands as it approaches the body.
Torso	Stretched format - length greater than height. The chest is powerful, the muscles on the back are well developed.
Tail	It is medium in size, covered with thick fur, reminiscent of a fox. In a relaxed state it is lowered down; when working, the animal lifts it up, but never throws it over its back.
Limbs	Arranged in parallel. The paws are rounded, compact, the toes are tucked, the claws are small and very strong.

Representatives of the breed have a dense coat with a thick undercoat that protects against temperature changes. Thanks to it, the animal can work in almost any weather conditions. The breed is divided into 2 varieties:

• smooth-haired;
• long-haired

Animals of the latter species have a mane, “pants” and a tassel on the tail. The fur on the head, ears, and paws is short and straight. Any non-compliance with the standard is considered a deficiency. Its severity is considered in accordance with the degree of impact on the health and performance of the animal.

What a border collie looks like, according to the standard, can be seen in the photograph.

Pros and cons of a dog

Pros of the type:

• This is a highly intelligent pet. No wonder it was called the most intelligent species in the world.
• They love to play. If you want an animal that will play with you for hours and anywhere, then this is the species for you.
• You will be surprised by the high level of intelligence of the species.
• You will need to devote a lot of time to exercise.
• Dogs get along well with children.
• They are one of the healthiest and hardiest breeds in the world.
• This is one of the few species in the American Kennel Club for which the breed standard is quite simple.

Disadvantages of the type:

• Animals crave attention. If individuals do not receive it, they may even bite owners and other people.
• Dogs can be very territorial.
• If you do not allow the animal to expend energy, this will lead to destructive actions on its part.
• If you live in a private house, take care of a high fence and gate. These individuals love to run away.
• Your pet needs time to socialize. Dogs are usually shy and reserved.
• Your pet can outsmart you if you let it. And he will do this constantly in the future.
• If your pet does not receive enough mental stimulation, it can lead to an eating disorder.
• This breed is not suitable for home guarding.
• Pets may shed several times a year. Therefore, the species is unlikely to be suitable for allergy sufferers.

Character and intelligence

According to research by British dog experts, border collies are the smartest dogs among all breeds existing in the world. Their level of intelligence is equal to the abilities of a 4-5 year old child. They have exceptional memory and are able to recognize a huge number of phrases and commands.

Thanks to their “herding” roots, border collies are extremely hardy, patient, and efficient. They are distinguished by insight and sensitivity to human emotions. They are immensely devoted to their owner and prefer to spend time with him and family members. At the same time, the border dog is unobtrusive and does not require increased attention at the wrong time. They will always let you rest in peace, but they will be there at your first call. They will be happy to have new experiences and entertainment.

Attitude towards children and others

For families with children, this Border Collie is a real find. Scottish “shepherds” are absolutely devoid of aggression and will become a caring nanny for a child.

Ideal for communicating with children 7-9 years old. A little owner can easily cope with an obedient pet. The collie will become a devoted friend for him, always ready to join in active play.

They also treat other pets well, but they will definitely become the leader of a kind of “pack”. Obeying the genetically inherent skills of a sheep shepherd, they will control other pets (especially small dogs and cats). They will happily play with a kitten brought into the house without causing any harm to it.

They treat outsiders somewhat warily and reservedly, but do not enter into open conflicts. They prefer the role of an observer, monitoring what is happening around them.

Border Collie standard

Training and education

Training a Border Collie will not cause any trouble for the owner. Thanks to their highly developed intelligence, these dogs grasp everything on the fly. They are able to master more than 130 different commands. Concentration is maintained throughout the entire lesson due to a genetically instilled diligence. It is better to carry out the training process in a playful way, praising the pet more often. Representatives of the breed highly value approval for their efforts.

It is advisable to conduct training on specially equipped areas where the animal can overcome obstacles in the form of stairs, slides, labyrinths and other things. It is good to use various toys and fetch. In addition, these dogs love to work for the public. In the presence of spectators, they will demonstrate all their abilities to the maximum.

The owner must be patient. Borderers take criticism very hard. Moreover, under no circumstances should you hit the dog. He will lose trust in the person and stop taking his words into account.

Training should begin as early as possible. As a puppy, the Border Collie will better learn the basic rules of behavior and skills and remember them for life.

History of the origin of the breed

Start

In the 1st century, the Romans brought these dogs to the British Isles and used them as herders. The animals spread very quickly throughout Britain, as well as Wales, Ireland and Scotland.

Later, the Roman Empire fell and England was invaded by the Vikings. Then another type of animal appeared, which looked like a Spitz.

These pets were bred together with larger species. As a result, we got medium-sized dogs with longer fur. They were better adapted to the geography and climate of the British Isles. These animals were also distinguished by their ability to herd livestock and were dexterous and athletic. They are considered the predecessors of the modern border collie.

One of these pets was a dog named Old Hemp.

Old Hemp

This animal was born in September 1893 at West Woodburn, Northumberland. His parents were a black shepherd named Meg and a calico cattle dog named Roy.

Old Hemp didn't look like modern border collies. He had a tricolor coat and minimal white fur, but he was an extraordinary dog. Old Hemp demonstrated his great herding abilities while still a puppy. He was only six weeks old then. The dog's owner and breeder, Adam Telfer, was impressed by Old Hemp's intelligence, natural instincts and ability to herd livestock. Soon, Hemp became the main working dog on the farm.

The owner had a lot of experience with sheepdogs, but had never seen an animal like Old Hemp before.

The dog's reputation as an outstanding herder made him very popular as a dog. People throughout the region wanted puppies born from this legendary herding animal. So they constantly brought their girls to Telfer's farm. According to some reports, up to 200 puppies were born to Old Hemp.

Most of the descendants retained the character traits that made Hemp such a wonderful shepherd. As well as its physical characteristics, including its coarse coat and medium build. This pet is considered the ancestor of the Border Collie breed.

Old Hemp is listed in the studbook of the International Sheepdog Society, which was founded in Scotland in 1906.

Later, Telfer had a dog named Sweep, the grandson of Old Hemp. This pet has succeeded in competitions for shepherd dogs.

He has twice won the International Sheepdog Society's Sheepdog Trials Championship.

Another famous descendant of Old Hemp is a dog named Young Hemp. He was the winner of the International Farmers' Sheepdog Championship in 1924.

Between 1906 and 1951, every one of the twenty-nine dogs that competed in this championship was a descendant of Old Hemp.

Other herding dog breeders took notice of the qualities that made the breed's founder such a superior animal. They sought to imitate these traits when breeding their pets.

origin of name

The first word in the name – border – means “border”. This refers to the area where the dogs were bred. It lies on the border between England and Scotland.

The term "collie" has a more complex etymology. The word collie is believed to come from the Celtic language and mean "helpful."

Other evidence suggests that sheep in the Scottish Highlands are known for their black markings. And "collie" is an old Anglo-Saxon word that means black.

Confession

The International Sheepdog Society is located today in Bedford, England. This organization maintains careful records of Border Collie breedings throughout the world.

It was thanks to their efforts that the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Border Collie in 1995.

Cattle dog

The entire life of animals is connected with grazing.

The species is specially bred to chase and organize animals. Border Collies are particularly good herders due to their independence and intelligence. The need to “flock” is so deeply ingrained in these dogs that some owners have to rent sheep for their pets.

Story

The history of the origin of the border collie is not known for certain. According to one version, the ancestors of modern dogs were companions of the Vikings, who raided settlements located on the Scottish coast. Curious dogs ran away from their owners and were welcomed into their homes by local residents. Over time, they spread over a wide area, along the border of England with Scotland.

The ancestors of Borders were crossed with shepherd dogs, representatives of hunting breeds, and were used as shepherd dogs. The climate of this area is very harsh. Forested rocks cannot be used for farming. Cattle breeders needed hardy, strong, dexterous dogs capable of leading a flock to pasture along a narrow mountain path without harming the livestock.

Initially, no one monitored the population, but gradually sheep farmers appreciated its working qualities. The best individuals began to be selected for selection based on working qualities and external data. The service abilities of pets began to be used not only in pastures, but also in other areas.

Today, the Border Collie breed is valued as a rescue dog, border guard, and guide dog for the visually impaired. Their phenomenal intellectual development makes them excellent companions, capable of supporting and carrying out a wide variety of tasks.

The description of the Scottish breed appeared several centuries after its appearance - only in 1881. Dogs were officially recognized in 1884. The standard was approved in 1915 thanks to James Reid.

The smartest dog

Any fan of the species will tell you that the breed is recognized as the smartest in the world. What exactly does this mean? A dog is considered "smart" by human standards, which are based on a number of factors. In his book The Intelligence of Dogs, British Columbia neuropsychologist Stanley Coren uses training of an animal to show its level of intelligence. The man examined a professional trainer's ratings for 110 breeds, which are based on animal testing and obedience testing. Koren called the smartest dogs those that quickly obeyed certain commands. The peculiarity was that the individuals heard the commands five or less times, and reproduced them with 95% success. The best result was shown by the Border Collie breed.

How to choose a puppy

We choose an active, sociable, moderately well-fed animal and refuse lethargic, apathetic puppies with dirty ears and a dry nose. You should first get to know the parents of the future pet, and of course, clarify information about the vaccinations given to the dog. If pedigree and standard appearance are important, it is better to contact well-known nurseries.

In order to save money, you can go through virtual bulletin boards like Avito and buy a border collie puppy “from hand”. Sometimes unscrupulous sellers, under the guise of purebred puppies, sell mongrels of a similar color or mixed breed, so it is better to come to a meeting with the owner of the animal with a specialist who can distinguish a purebred from a pseudo-border.

Maintenance and care

How to care for a dog?

If you make it a regular part of your lifestyle, caring for your pet will not be a difficult task. Features of the content are as follows.

There are many basic essentials that you should buy for your pet. Buy a leash, collar, food, toys, a crib and comb, special shampoo, and nail clippers. Avoid retractable leashes as they can strangle your pet. Instead, choose a long leash. When choosing a leash, consider the circumference of your friend's neck. Usually it is 33-36 cm.

Cleaning. There are two types of fur that an animal can have. The first is smooth and relatively short fur. The second is thick and smooth hairs that grow up to 7 cm. To reduce flaking of the skin, both types should be combed out frequently. However, the long-haired variety should be brushed daily to prevent pellets from forming in the coat. The ideal tools for the procedure are a metal brush or comb.

Nail cutting. The animal's claws should be trimmed once a month. If you have difficulty completing this task at home, take him to a professional groomer or veterinarian. Use special dog nail clippers for the procedure. Alternatively, you can also buy a nail file to round off the sharp edges.

Ear cleaning. You should look into your dog's ears at two weeks. This is necessary to make sure that they are clean and healthy. If you notice wax on the surface, simply wipe it with a clean, soft, damp cloth.

Teeth cleaning. Brush your pet's teeth every few days. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. Pay special attention to the back teeth, as caries most often forms there.

Bathing. The animal does not have a strong dog smell - it does not smell like a dog. Therefore, only bathe him when he is very dirty. Try not to carry out the procedure in winter. In general, the breed should not be washed more than twice a year. It is recommended to use dry shampoo for bathing.

Rest. Set up a secluded place for your pet to rest and sleep. Buy a special bed or make a crib yourself.

Activity. Make sure your pet gets plenty of exercise. Due to the high amount of energy, he needs to exercise for one hour every day. Walk your animal outside 2 times daily.

Take your pet to the vet regularly and get vaccinations according to schedule.

Caring for an adult dog

Border Collie dogs are unpretentious and easily adapt to any conditions. They are not picky about food and can withstand bad weather well. It is best to get them for a country house, just place them in a large enclosure, and not on a chain. You can also keep a border collie in an apartment, but if you don't walk it, it will get bored.

At home, your pet should have its own place with bedding. It should be located away from drafts and radiators. It is advisable that the border dog can watch the owner from a place, since this dog does not like loneliness. Be sure to buy toys for your puppy, otherwise he may start chewing things out of boredom.

You need to walk your dog at least 2-3 hours a day. Without sufficient physical activity, he will lose his working qualities. It is better to go for walks in the dog park so that the pet can overcome obstacles. These dogs love to run after sticks and balls. In summer it is recommended to go to the river.

Caring for borders is easy. But they lose a lot of hair during molting. Therefore, it is recommended to brush your pet daily. But you still need to prepare for the fact that during the molting period there will be fur all over the apartment, even from short-haired varieties.

The rest of the time, it is enough to brush your pet 3 times a week. It is not recommended to use a slicker, as it damages the undercoat. Smooth collies can be brushed less frequently, using a special brush. It is important to ensure that tangles do not form. You should bathe your collie no more than once every 1-2 months. Wash your paws every time after a walk.

The rest of the care is brushing your teeth and wiping your eyes. Pay special attention to your ears. They are surrounded by fur and dirt can accumulate there. They need to be wiped with veterinary lotion. If it is necessary to trim the claws, this should be done regularly only on the fifth toe.

Nutrition

The dog's diet should be chosen taking into account its hyperactivity. You can feed the border dog with dry food or natural food, the main thing is to choose the correct serving size. The pet must receive the necessary vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. When feeding natural food, the dog is given additional multivitamins.

The diet should contain;

• meat, offal, poultry, sea fish;
• cereals as a source of carbohydrates, preferably buckwheat or rice porridge;
• vegetable fiber - spinach, apples, zucchini, cabbage;
• vegetable oil;
• once a week – egg, fermented milk products.

Many owners choose dry food, in which case it must contain at least 50% protein. Preference should be given to those designed for active dogs. They should contain Omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, preferably chondroitin to support joints. The composition should not contain soy, corn and wheat, as these dogs are prone to allergies.

Health

Border coli are very hardy and strong animals. They are in good health. But some individuals have congenital or acquired diseases:

• hip dysplasia;
• osteochondrosis;
• epilepsy;
• atrophy or detachment of the retina;
• allergies, usually to medications;
• cardiovascular pathologies.

Blue-eyed puppies are often born blind. When purchasing, you need to check your eyesight - the baby must react to movement and light. This pathology can appear by 2 months, so it is recommended to buy a puppy older than 10 weeks. Acquired pathologies usually appear due to improper care. Obesity and heart disease are especially common. To start treatment on time, you need to regularly visit the veterinarian.

The video will tell you more about how to care for representatives of the breed:

Nutrition

This species rarely suffers from allergies, unlike other breeds. They are also less likely to have health problems, although their activity may cause joint problems later in life. In terms of nutrition, the breed is quite easy to satisfy. Individuals do not have any special needs. But, of course, there are certain ingredients that will be beneficial for dogs.

Squirrels . Like humans, animals break down protein to produce certain amino acids. They support growth, promote tissue repair and enzyme production.

Too much protein can have an adverse effect on the animal's behavior. This can make your pet hyperactive, unfocused, lack concentration, and even lead to unpredictable behavior.

If your pet walks a lot, goes for a run with you, and you regularly do daily interactive training, he will need about 22% protein.

If the dog is pregnant or sick, it is better to feed it food with a higher protein level - up to 24%.

Fats . The right kind of fat is essential to keeping your pet's skin and coat healthy. This will also give your pet an extra boost of energy.

Calcium will help maintain healthy bones and joints.

This breed is not picky and can tolerate all food components. But you should be careful about consuming too many carbohydrates. You can find them in almost all types of feed. Some feeds provide the animal with carbohydrates by 70%.

A growing individual requires 1,400 calories per day as they are more likely to be very active. For adults, 1000 calories is enough. As this breed gets older, their activity and amount of energy decreases. Therefore, older animals need about 700 calories per day.

Dogs cannot control their food intake on their own. They will eat everything you put in front of them. Divide your calorie intake into two separate meals. It's up to you to decide whether it will be breakfast and dinner or lunch and dinner.

Many dog ​​owners, regardless of breed, choose dry food. This is due to the fact that it is more accessible. Others buy canned food.

You can also cook your pet's food yourself. But here you will have to carefully calculate the diet and calorie content of the dishes in order to provide the animals with all the necessary substances.

Features of feeding and diet

The diet of border dogs should be designed taking into account the fact that the dog is hyperactive. You can choose either dry food or natural food, but in both cases you need to adjust the portion so that the dog does not starve or gain weight.

Dry feeding involves choosing food with a high content of protein-fat complex (about 50% in total). Typically, such foods are labeled “for active dogs.” It is preferable that the composition does not contain soy, as well as wheat and corn - these ingredients do not have the best effect on the collie’s digestion. The main component of collie food is poultry or by-products.

Natural food should include meat and grains, as well as fiber. These are the elements that your pet should receive daily. Meat means red varieties, except fatty pork, offal, sea fish without bones, and poultry. As a “side dish”, cook buckwheat or rice porridge for the dog and season it with a spoon of vegetable oil.

Regarding fiber, it is vital for this breed. What's ideal:

• apples;
• spinach;
• zucchini and pumpkin;
• cabbage (especially broccoli);
• green beans (other legumes are not recommended).

Vegetables are steamed or scalded with boiling water, chopped and served along with meat. It is recommended to give borders kelp, a boiled egg, and a fermented milk product without sugar and salt once a week.

Girl

The height at the withers for girls is 46-53 cm, weight – 12-19 kg.

Females are usually shorter and slimmer. This contributes to their greater dexterity. Also, girls' heads have a more feminine appearance.

Women are usually more independent than men and do not like to be controlled. For example, they will come to you when they want something, but will leave as soon as they get what they wanted.

Because women like to be in control, they tend to be more stubborn.

A lesser known fact is that girls are territorial. They will mark their territory throughout their lives. This does not depend on whether they are sterilized.

Bitches are less attached to their owner than males. With age, they become more reserved.

Unspayed females will exhibit mood swings when they come into heat. In general, women tend to be more “moody” than men.

Colors

The FCI breed standard allows for a variety of border collie colors, since the selection process focused on the working qualities of the animals, and not on their appearance. However, in none of the options is white the main color.

The classic color is black and white. The light shade predominates on the face, chest, belly, limbs, and tail. The dog may be spotted: there are small specks on the white areas, which appear a few days after birth

. The following colors are also common:

• red (chocolate, brown, liver);
• tan (shades from pale beige to dark red);
• gray (smoky);
• sable;
• ginger.

There is a tricolor color - combination:

• white;
• any other color (black, blue, brown, etc.);
• tan (shade from light beige to deep red) under the eyes, on the cheekbones and limbs.

Solid black color is not typical for the breed.

The marbled border collie looks beautiful and original: photos of these animals immediately catch your eye. Such pets often have heterochromia, which gives them even more charm. However, it is undesirable to cross two merle-colored dogs - the puppies are usually born dead, and if they survive, they have many congenital pathologies.

Merle Border Collies come in a variety of shades. The dog can be red, blue, red, sable, etc. The body of the animal is covered with richly pigmented or pale spots of varying sizes.

Also, all of these types may contain tan. Then the color will be correctly called, for example, marbled sable and tan. Puppies obtained from chocolate and blue individuals are lilac colored, a very rare color that is a mixture of brown and blue. Sometimes this color is called Isabella.

Boy

The height at the withers for boys is 48-56 cm, their weight is 14-20 kg.

Generally, the males of the same litter will be larger in size than the females. They usually grow taller and have a more muscular body, but this depends on the litter the dog was born into. Some parents may be small and some may be large. Therefore, some women may be larger than men purely due to genetics.

Males, as a rule, are more attached to their owners than females. They exhibit more affectionate behavior. Boys tend to be more "pushy" and will often ask you for attention.

As a male dog ages, he is more likely to retain his puppy playfulness. Females are the opposite: they become more withdrawn and aloof with age.

Often, male dogs will be more food motivated than female dogs. This has clear advantages in education and training.

We can say that men have a more “even” character. They are often calmer.

Kinds

Representatives of the breed are not classified by weight and height, but by coat length - yes. There are short-haired and long-haired Scottish Shepherds. Each of them is charming in its own way.

Animals from each group have 2 types of undercoat: upper and lower. The first one is much tougher than the second one. Long-haired Shepherds have a “mane” on their necks. They also have another cute feature - a bushy tail.

Nicknames

Many owners can't figure out what to name their Border Collie? Below are the most popular pet names.

For boy

Nicknames for boys:

• Hemp.
• They beat.
• Jet.
• Millennium.
• Clyde.
• Tyne.
• Rocky.
• Chester.
• Winston.
• Jimmy.
• Jack.
• Ben.
• Luke.
• Cody.
• Bean.
• Pete.
• Royan.
• False.
• Jesse.
• Whale.
• Dylan.
• Evan.
• Weiss.
• Schleich.
• Luke.
• Moody.

For girl

Nicknames for girls:

• Jen.
• Meg.
• Bessie.
• Ruby.
• Nellie.
• Annie.
• Haze.
• Barra.
• Dera.
• Jilly.
• Jena.
• Queen.
• Redhead.
• Molly.
• Bark.
• Mia.
• Fairy.
• Lussy.
• Sky.
• Merry.
• Faith.
• Martha.
• Omega.

Reproduction and lifespan

In order for the breeder to receive healthy puppies, he must select for mating adult males and females who have reached the age of sexual maturity - 2 years. It is strictly not recommended to breed younger dogs.

Ideal conditions for breeding are a nursery in which both “parents” know each other well from childhood. On what day of heat is it best to breed dogs? At 3 or 4. During this period, it is important to monitor the well-being of the bitch. She should not be overly aggressive, but if her mood is difficult to call good, it is better to postpone the mating.

Pregnancy in a Border Collie lasts about 70 days. During one birth, a bitch can give birth to 10-12 puppies, but more often fewer are born, no more than 6-7. These beautiful dogs live a long time, from 14 to 16 years.

Breeding

Breeding individuals is a difficult and labor-intensive process. Serious breeders check dogs according to many criteria, including the presence of genetic diseases.

Puberty in males occurs at the age of 15 months, in females - at 18 months. The female's first estrus begins at 6 months and occurs 2 times a year.

Get all necessary vaccinations and deworming a month before the expected mating date.

Pregnancy lasts 53-71 days. Walk a lot with the expectant mother, but do not overtire her. Provide the female with a high protein diet.

Shortly before giving birth, the bitch's behavior will begin to change. She will stop eating, will start to worry, and will dig her place. If you observe these signs, it means that there is less than a day left before the significant event.

Ensure that a veterinarian or experienced breeder is present at the birth.

Usually 4-8 puppies are born in a litter.

Socialization

Socialization of the puppy begins immediately after it arrives in the house. He is introduced to the outside world, other animals and people, and is taught not to be afraid of the noise of the big city. To prevent the baby from being mischievous, he is provided with a variety of toys. The more there are, the better. Hyperactive puppies require strict discipline.

The dog needs to satisfy not only the need for movement, but also to develop intellectually.

Character formation is completed at approximately six months. Until this time, it is still possible to correct some temperamental deficiencies. Retraining an adult animal will be much more difficult. If your pet does something wrong, just change your intonation to strict - he will quickly understand the mistake. You cannot use physical force - representatives of the breed are very vulnerable and sensitive to violence. Border Collies and children get along great. The pet especially likes to spend time with teenagers - after all, you can run with them and do active entertainment. A properly socialized dog gets along with other pets and does not conflict with its relatives.

Puppies

Puppies of the species are long-legged, fluffy and very active.

Babies grow at an average rate and stop growing after about a year.

Weight and height of puppies, depending on age:

Age, months	Height, cm	Weight, kg
1	10-12	1,8-2
2	15-17	4-5
3	20-22	6-7
4	28-30	9-10
5	33-35	10-12
6	35-38	12-14
7	38-40	14-15
8	40-43	15-16
9	43-45	15-16,5
10	45-47	15,5-17
11	45-48	15-17,5
12-14	45-56	15-20

Their curiosity can lead them where they shouldn't. So you must remove all wires, things, and foods that your pet might chew or eat.

Don't let animals chase children, cyclists or other dogs. Early behavior modification will help control these urges.

Breeders and veterinarians have come to the conclusion that the owner can replace the animal's food with a brand of his choice. It is best to do this when your pet has been living with you for about a month. Do it gradually. Give your baby some time to adjust at first to make the transition easier. Combine about 75% old food and 25% new food in a bowl for the first day or two. On days 3 and 4, feed the animal about 50% old and 50% new food. And then, on days 5 and 6, move to a ratio of 75% new and 25% old food. Your pet should be fully adapted to the new diet by the 7th day.

Animals may become allergic to certain foods, causing their gut bacteria to be destroyed by the new diet. If the dog has not adapted to the new food, you can return to the old one. This may be indicated by refusal of food, vomiting, and diarrhea.

There are many different types of food available on the market today. So you have options to choose from! A balanced diet is very important. It affects your puppy's growth, future health and well-being.

Thus, you need to provide the animal with the necessary amount of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, carbohydrates, fats and other elements. Babies need additional nutrients, such as calcium. They also need about twice as many calories per 2 kg of body weight as adults.

Both dry and canned food are easily digestible. Veterinarians recommend choosing one that depends on your preferences, budget and lifestyle.

The amount fed varies depending on factors such as breed, activity and body condition.

Puppies should be fed more often than adults. Start with 4-6 meals a day. Reduce them to 2-3 small meals per day after 6 months. Start feeding your pet 1-2 times a day when he is one year old. Do not overfeed individuals! Research shows that dogs live longer and have fewer health problems if their diet is restricted early in life.

Breed traits

Breed traits (on a 5-point scale)

		Border Collie
Activity	in the house		3.9
	on the street	4.7
Obedience	training	4.4
	strangers	4.1
Domination	in family	2.3
	over dogs	2.6
Defending your territory	from people	2.3
	from dogs	2.8
Sociability	in family	4.4
	with strangers	3.4
	with dogs	2.9
Concentration	in family	1.5
	in front of strangers	2.5
	with dogs	2.6
Aggressiveness	in family	1.4
	to strangers	2.1
	to the dogs	2.6
	to cats	2.6
Family behavior	calmness	4.6
	demand for affection	4.1
	excitability	4
	playfulness	4.4
	excessive barking	2.3
	behavioral breakdowns	2.4
Tolerance for children	up to 4 years	3.6
	over 4 years old	3.9
Institutional use	watchman	3.7
	bodyguard	2

This breed is often compared to the following dog breeds: Australian Shepherd (Aussie), Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog), German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever.

Dog character

When it comes to temperament, Border Collies are quite different from most other breeds. They are truly unique and individual dogs, with their own little quirks.

The nature of collies is closely related to their “work” as herders. Therefore, almost everything they do comes from their instinct to herd other animals.

Any individual of this species will be very energetic. This energy leads to a love of play and a desire or even need to run. A responsible owner must be prepared to perform the tasks associated with training the dog.

They are very sociable and friendly. Pets are people-oriented, despite the “herd” mentality. They are very friendly and loyal. Individuals also get along well with cats and other pets.

Since pets are strongly attached to their owners, they suffer from long separations. Don't let them stay alone for long. This will lead to destructive behavior in the home.

Collies are not an aggressive breed. Therefore, they do not have strong security abilities and a tendency to fight.

Animals love their families and show this as best they can. But they will be more reserved around unfamiliar people and animals.

When young, the breed may exhibit sensitivity to noise and a general lack of confidence in the world. However, when they are carefully trained and socialized, individuals make excellent companions and workers. They are very intelligent creatures. They are considered one of the smartest dog species in the world. Therefore, animals will often try to outsmart their owners. Don't let them do this, as it will become a habit for your pets.

Thanks to their high intelligence, individuals quickly learn new tricks and commands.

Border Collie Personality

Master, I love you so much ❤
Border collies are observant, good-natured hard workers with an extremely peaceful character. English Shepherds will always prefer completing some important assignment or intense training in the fresh air to lying aimlessly on the rug. For these dogs, work is not a routine, but the meaning of life, so you should not try to transform an energetic border dog into a “couch city dweller.”

Border collies are not considered aggressive dogs, but the animals still experience a certain distrust of strangers. But these modest intellectuals love children quite sincerely. Of course, you can “graze” them all day long, tirelessly driving individuals who have strayed from the “herd” into a safe zone and not letting them out of it until permission is received from the all-powerful and respected owner. By the way, about the relationship with the owner: it is difficult to find a creature capable of loving you more than a border collie. These executive workaholics are ready to completely and completely dissolve in their owner, without demanding anything in return.

Border collie herding sheep

Got it!

Education and training

At what age should you start training your pet?

The answer to this question largely depends on the type of training. If you're talking about teaching your pet simple house rules, the sooner you start, the better.

However, if you are trying to teach your puppy some new basic tricks, you should wait until your baby is 3 months old.

If you want to teach your animal something more complex, then you should wait until the age of 5 to 6 months.

As a trainer, you start by assigning yourself the role of “Alpha Dog.” This means that you are the leader, and the dog completely obeys you.

Some key tips for successful collie training:

• Pay full attention to your pet. You must also be attentive to your pet if you want him to learn anything. Choose a time and place with the least amount of distractions before you begin training your animal.
• Always be consistent. This is necessary so that your pet learns everything as quickly as possible during training. Don't change the team names. Pick one and stick to it. If you are trying to teach your dog to stay away from furniture, follow this principle at all times. You shouldn't have specific days when your pet can or can't get on the couch. This will only slow down learning and confuse your pet.
• Use positive reinforcement. Animals learn better through reward rather than punishment. Always reward good behavior, either with a treat or just praise. This is the best way to show your pet that he is doing something right. This will also motivate the dog to do the same thing again.
• Have patience. If you are upset, training will be difficult for you and your animal. If you have been training your pet for a long time, and he still does not accept your commands, do not yell at him. Training your animal with a firm and gentle voice always works great.

Tips for choosing a puppy

Regardless of where you go for your future friend - to a nursery or to a private breeder - remember a few golden rules. They will help you choose a healthy puppy without any mixture of other breeds:

• the baby is active, shows interest in everything that happens around him;
• at the same time, the kitten does not have nervousness and timidity - a healthy collie is very brave and curious;
• Border Collie puppies are well-fed, their eyes are sparkling, their ears are clean, and their teeth are straight;
• the mother of the children is calm and healthy (you can ask for a certificate);
• pay attention to the puppy’s vision - he should respond well to movement next to him;
• The place where the bitch and her cubs live should be clean, tidy, and free of unpleasant odors.

If you see a discrepancy in at least one point, it is better to refuse to purchase a puppy in this place. If you are satisfied with everything, but have doubts about the purebred, use the services of a specialist dog handler. For a small amount, he will accompany you and give comprehensive advice.

Before taking your puppy home, be sure to ask the breeder all your questions. Ideally, ask for a phone number to contact for the first time - a conscientious breeder will be happy to do this. If they refuse to give you contact information, this is a reason to seriously think about it.

Ask about feeding, sleep, vaccinations - this is very important. Also make sure that all documents are completed correctly (if you are taking a puppy for breeding or exhibitions). But, if this doesn’t matter, just make sure that the puppy is healthy - because this is the most important thing.

Diseases

Once you have fully explored the pros and cons of the breed's personality, it is time to consider their potential health problems. Unlike some other species, the Border Collie is relatively healthy. But there are some of the most common health problems specific to this breed:

• The eye anomaly occurs in puppies and dogs under two years of age. This is an inherited disease that affects the uvea in the eye. Its role is to supply oxygen to the retina of the eye. The disease can lead to thinning of the choroid. And then, to blindness and intraocular hemorrhage. There is no cure for this problem. In mild cases, the disorder may not get worse and therefore does not require treatment. In severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve some symptoms. Discuss all treatment options with your veterinarian.
• Dysplasia of the hip and elbow joints. Hip dysplasia is an extremely common orthopedic condition in dogs. It is estimated that 70% of individuals are affected by it. Elbow dysplasia is less common but can also occur in this species. As in the previous case, elbow and hip dysplasia are genetic diseases. They can appear in animals at any age. As the joints develop, the femoral head dislocates. The joint wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, an unusual gait, and other symptoms. Your veterinarian will help you determine a treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms. The condition is controlled with painkillers and physical rehabilitation. Surgery may be required.
• Osteochondritis. Cartilage acts as a buffer for the joint. When the disease occurs, the cartilage in your pet's joints begins to break down. Without it, the joint becomes mobile and painful. The disease occurs in puppies from the age of four months. Contact your veterinarian and he will prescribe a treatment plan. Most often, the specialist will recommend surgery or arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgical procedure).
• Progressive retinal atrophy. This is a degenerative condition that gradually impairs your dog's vision. Ultimately, it leads to blindness. There is no cure for retinal atrophy. But you can improve your pet's condition with medications. Border collies are so intelligent that they often adapt well to vision loss. You will need to ensure that their habitat remains safe.
• Epilepsy. The main symptom of the problem is seizures. Signs of epilepsy in an animal may appear during the first six months of life. Currently, there is no screening test to detect this disease. Medications are most often used to treat epilepsy. Understanding the signs of an epileptic seizure and how to treat it is also important for proper treatment. Consult your veterinarian who will prescribe a treatment regimen.
• Hypothyroidism. With this disease, the dog's thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Some signs that your pet may have hypothyroidism include: dry skin, dull coat, weight gain, hair loss, aggression and behavioral changes. Diagnosis is a simple blood test. If your pet is confirmed to have hypothyroidism, your veterinarian will prescribe medication to balance the production of thyroid hormones. After this, symptoms should disappear within a few weeks. Sometimes the dosage must be changed several times. Once the correct dosage is found, have your blood tested periodically. You will be giving medications to your pet for the rest of its life.
• Dental problems are quite common in this species. The accumulation of tartar and plaque around the gum line can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss, as occurs in humans. Clean your friend's mouth regularly.
• Heart diseases. Congenital heart disease is a common genetic defect of the species. This condition usually results in congestion of blood on the left side of the heart. In severe cases, it causes heart failure and death. Symptoms: shortness of breath when walking and exercising, lethargy. Contact your veterinarian for a diagnosis.

Diet

It is better to feed the Border Collie prepared foods, but if the owner has enough knowledge on creating the right balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, you can prepare the pet’s food yourself.

Attention: you cannot feed a dog from a “human” table!

It is important not to overfeed the animal. Obesity negatively affects the cardiovascular system and musculoskeletal system. With proper feeding, the dog looks well-fed, but the ribs can be easily felt. A 2-3 month old puppy needs to be fed five times a day. As the dog gets older, the frequency of meals decreases and the volume of food increases. Border Collies eat the most at six months, then the portion size decreases. By the age of one year, the dog should be switched to an adult diet of two meals a day. The amount of food should be such that the dog eats completely at one time.

Marbled Border Collie

For feeding, you should purchase a special stand that is height adjustable. The puppy's bowl should be placed at shoulder level. You can choose plastic or metal plates. The latter are more hygienic, durable, but make noise during use.

For any type of feeding, the dog must have free access to clean water.

Natural nutrition

Natural food is not very suitable for border collies prone to allergies. For those who decide to cook their pet’s food themselves, it is important to develop a diet in such a way that it receives all the necessary vitamins and microelements.

You can feed your dog the following foods:

• beef;
• carrot;
• apples;
• cottage cheese;
• buckwheat;
• mutton;
• broccoli;
• kefir;
• turkey;
• fruits;
• rice;
• zucchini;
• sea ​​fish (boneless, no more than twice a week).

Introduce new foods into the diet one at a time, carefully observing the pet’s reaction to this or that food. It is also important to maintain a balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates in your daily food intake. Meat products must account for at least 60% of the total volume.

It is forbidden to give your dog pickles, smoked meats, onions, chocolate, baked goods, fatty and fried foods.

Dry food
Dry food is more suitable for representatives of this breed. The most useful options are based on turkey, lamb, and salmon. Compositions with a high content of by-products, soy, corn, wheat have a bad effect on the dog’s digestion.

The choice must be made in favor of products of at least premium class (preferably super-premium or holistic). Compared to “economy” food, such food is expensive, but it is better absorbed, the animal gets full faster, and accordingly, the consumption is much less than that of cheap, low-quality food.

Industrial products have a number of other advantages. Among them:

• saving time;
• long shelf life;
• balance of all elements;
• ease of preparation;
• exact dosage (indicated on the package, it must be followed);
• good digestibility.

Food for border collies must be purchased in strict accordance with the age of the animal. Adults will benefit from food designed for active dogs. The kitten should not be given food for older dogs.

Vitamins and supplements

Vitamin supplements should be given to dogs that eat natural foods. A healthy animal requires complexes including vitamins B, C, E, A. Group D substances are often given to dogs in the form of fish oil.

Border Collies require medications that contain Omega-6 fatty acids, which support the structure of the coat, as well as Omega-3. These substances have a beneficial effect on the condition of the kidneys, heart, and brain.

Attention: if your dog eats industrial food, you can give it additional vitamins only as prescribed by a veterinarian!

Excessive content of beneficial components in the body can be harmful to health. Thus, a large amount of calcium provokes disturbances in the formation of the skeleton, an excess of vitamin A harms blood vessels and joints, D impairs appetite, causes muscle atrophy and bone pathologies.

Interesting Facts

• Old Hemp is not the only Border Collie who has had a profound influence on the development of the breed. Whiston Cap was born in 1963 and became the most prolific collie in history. It is estimated that every Border Collie in the UK is currently descended from him. And also each individual registered with the International Sheepdog Society represents 13.3% of Wiston Cap.
• Queen Victoria was a true dog lover. In the early 1860s she became an active Border Collie enthusiast.
• The famous Scottish Poet Laureate Robert Burns was a proponent of the species. He described the breed as honest and loyal. Burns and his brother had a pet named Luat as children. But he died tragically. Burns's poem "Twa Dogs" is partly an ode to Luath. And the Burns statue in Winthrop Square in Boston depicts Luath standing eternally at his master's side.
• Animals know how and love to act in films and television shows due to their high intelligence, as well as workaholism. One of the most famous examples is the Maui pet. He played the dog Murray. The dog belonged to the main characters in the sitcom Mad About You, which aired in the 1990s. Maui played Murray for seven seasons, and was twice named the most popular dog on television by TV Guide.
• Talented border collie Striker currently holds one of the strangest Guinness World Records: "Fastest car window opening." Striker took 11.34 seconds to open a non-electric car window using its paw and nose. He set the record in September 2004 in Quebec, Canada.
• Dogs can move quickly in a cat-like, inclined position. This is due to the space between the tops of the shoulder blades, which allows them to "glide" low to the ground. This technique helps individuals herd animals with extreme precision.
• The Chaser is widely known as the smartest dog in the world. She can understand different words and also name her 1000 unique toys.
• Queen Victoria and Robert Burns are not the only famous people who owned collies. James Dean, Anna Paquin, Bon Jovi, Ethan Hawke, James Franco and Tiger Woods all had this breed.
• Films and TV series in which this breed has starred: “Snow Dogs”, “Little House on the Prairie”, “Mad About You”, “Baby”, “Year of the Dog”, “Wuthering Heights”, “Babe: The Four-Legged Baby” and many others.
• The species is also mentioned in fiction. For example, in the book “Year of the Dog. Twelve months, four dogs and me." It was written by journalist and author John Katz. He was the owner of all those dogs that, in fact, are written about in the book.
• The main work of the species is grazing. However, animals are also good at other tasks. It has to do with their mind. Collies are often used as therapy dogs. Dogs can also warn other people about deteriorating health conditions of the patient, such as seizures.

Health and illness

Border collies are naturally endowed with fairly good health. Most of the diseases that representatives of the breed are prone to are caused by improper care of animals.

An adult border collie dog is predisposed to such pathologies as:

• osteochondrosis;
• epilepsy;
• allergy;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system (most often formed due to poor nutrition);
• retinal detachment;
• cancer;
• joint diseases;
• obstruction of the lacrimal canaliculi;
• disorders of the nervous system (not common, but severe);
• intolerance to a number of pharmaceuticals.

The blue-eyed gene is responsible for vision and hearing. Dogs with this iris color are prone to congenital blindness or deafness.

Most Border Collie diseases become evident in adulthood. In order not to miss the initial stage of the disorder, when the pet can still be helped, owners are recommended to visit the veterinarian every six months.

Border collie in the grass

Lifespan

On average, dogs live 12 – 15 years. In order for the animal to maintain the opportunity to lead an active lifestyle for many years, it is important to properly care for the pet and follow the vaccination schedule.

The puppy receives his first vaccinations from the breeder. The further vaccination plan is determined by the veterinarian, taking into account the characteristics of the breed and region of residence. It is also important to carry out regular deworming and flea control procedures.

Bitch: character

There is an opinion that Border Collie females have a more submissive and gentle character. But experts believe that character largely depends on heredity and individual characteristics. There are always exceptions, bitches with a very difficult character, and there are males with an easy-going and submissive character. But still, there is a difference in the behavior of the sexes. There are advantages and disadvantages for female and male genders.

Advantages:

• Strong relationship with owner and home
• Emotionally sensitive perception
• Girls are smarter and smarter than boys
• Accepts training tasks well
• During walks, he runs less in the bushes
• Doesn't rush at strangers
• The breed is ideal for breeding, just one assessment from the exhibition is enough

Flaws:

• Sly
• Periodic menstruation

Male: character

Advantages:

• High performance, very durable
• Solid appearance, a big plus for exhibitions
• Persistence in achieving results in the learning process

Flaws:

• Independent and more stubborn than a girl. Requires more strict training than a girl.
• To fulfill your physical and natural needs, you need a longer time for walks. According to physiology, he is not capable of quickly emptying the bladder.
• Can run away from its owner if it smells a female in heat.
• During the period of estrus in females, fights with other males are possible.

How much does it cost and what should I name the puppy?

The optimal age for purchasing a dog is 2-2.5 months. It is advisable to buy a collie puppy from special nurseries. Private individuals can offer you a mongrel or mixed breed puppy.

Approximate prices:

• private individuals - 10-20 thousand rubles;
• nursery (without the possibility of breeding) - 40-45 thousand rubles;
• nursery (with the possibility of further breeding) - about 70 thousand rubles;
• collie with excellent characteristics, documents, titled parents - from 95 thousand rubles and above.

The cost of female puppies is usually about 10-15 percent higher.

The name or nickname given to the puppy should be well-pronounced, harmonious, and most importantly, the pet should like it.

The owners of the nursery assign names on the 45th day of life. This name appears in pedigrees and in show events. Pet nicknames differ from official names.

Often representatives of this breed are given names that are consonant with English, Scottish or geographical names.

Would you like to get yourself a border collie?