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Facts about Border Collie Puppies
Are you unsure how to care for Border Collie puppies or just want to learn more about the breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a dog and want to know if this is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
The breed originated in the border country between England and Scotland (that's how it got it's name).
It used to be known by many names, including Working Collie, Farm Collie and English Collie until 1915, when James Reid, Secretary of the International Sheepdog Society in Great Britain, first called it a Border Collie.
The breed was developed for herding and it excels at it. It has a very intense stare and it's been said that Farm Collies herd with their eyes by hypnotizing cattle. Unlike other herding breeds, they don't make good guard dogs.
Physical Characteristics of Border Collie Puppies
This is a medium-size dog. It has a strong body that's slightly longer than it is tall, a wide head and a long tail. The ears vary greatly from dog to dog - from erect to semi-erect to fully dropped. Eyes are usually brown or blue, but some dogs may have one of each.
As far as their coats are concerned, there are two types. Rough Border Collie puppies have longer double coats and smooth Border Collies have shorter double coats.
Both types come in many colors, such as black with white (the most common), tri-color, all black, red and white, etc. The only color you will not find is all white.
Because these dogs are usually bred for their intelligence and strong work ethic, not for their appearance, conformation to the standard varies widely. Some dogs may weight as little as 25 pounds while others may be as heavy as 60 or even 65 pounds. The Height and Weight in the table below are the averages.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 18 to 22 inches | 30 to 50 pounds | |
| Female | 18 to 22 inches | 30 to 50 pounds |
Temperament
These dogs make excellent pets. They are intelligent, friendly, outgoing and family oriented. On the other hand, they can be wary with strangers.
They get along well with other dogs and love children, but may try to herd both and may chase cats and other fast-moving animals.
They love human company and don't like to be left alone for extended periods of time. When bored, they resort do destructive behaviors, such as barking, digging and jumping. They are also excellent escape artists, so watch out!
If you are looking for a breed that's easy to train and likes to learn new things, this is it! But be very careful during training - this is a very sensitive breed and if you use too much correction, your pet can become stubborn and will stop to respond.
Visit dog behavior to learn more about Border Collie training and behavior.
Best Owner
Border Collie puppies will do best with an active family in a suburban environment.
They love children, but because of their strong herding instinct, may try to herd them by nipping at their heels. Though this is harmless, it may scare younger children. If you have young children, ask yourself if they can handle this.
They are excellent jumpers, so make sure your fence is at least five feet tall.
Some Border Collie breeders may interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
This is a very active breed. To stay in shape, physically as well as mentally, Border Collie puppies need to be kept busy.
If you have a fenced yard or can take him to a safe area, your pet will enjoy running off leash. In addition, you also need to take him for long walks. If you enjoy jogging or bicycle riding, take your pet along (on-leash).
Grooming
The Boarder Collie is an average shedder, with most shedding occurring in early spring and late fall. Brush two to three times a week, more often during heavy shedding.
Bathe only when necessary.
Health Concerns
Some of the health concerns include hip dysplasia, flea allergies and eye problems, common to many Border Collie puppies.
Visit home remedies for fleas to learn how you can protect your pet from these parasites without resorting to harmful chemicals found in many commercial products.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable Border Collie breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years.
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