Created to herd sheep, the Border Collie is a dog that’s not just agile but incredibly smart. And here are some of the most interesting Border Collie facts that help set this amazing breed apart.
A Distinguishing Name
The Border Collie gets its name from the fact that it was developed on the border of England and Scotland. In the past, the breed was simply just known as the Collie. However, with the rise in popularity of the Rough Collie, it needed a name that would help distinguish it as a unique breed.
Before the name Border Collie was officially recognized it was known by various names such as the English Collie, Welsh Collie, Scotch Collie, and also the Farm Collie.
Range Of Colors
The traditional and most common Border Collie coat color is black with a white collar, tail tip, and stockings. But there are many other acceptable coat colors as well. That is, except for solid white. Merle, tri-color, solid black, red and white, tan and white, and gray and black are just some examples.
Built For Mileage
When working to herd sheep this breed can sometimes run forty to fifty miles in a single day. In fact, the official Border Collie standard was written so that dogs must have a rib cage and chest that allows for both heart and lung capacity that can perform to such a capacity.
A Low-Set Tail Matters
There’s a reason that the breed has a tail that’s low-set. And that’s because it helps the dog to balance itself as it stops, starts, and turns on a dime to keep the sheep in line.
A Guiding Light
Many shepherds prefer a Collie with a white-tipped tail. The white tip is often referred to as a “shepherd’s lantern,” as it can help to guide the way home in the evening since it stands out well against the dark night sky.
Running Hot
Border Collies are such diligent workers that they can put the job before themselves. In fact, particular care must be taken when the dog is working in strong sun or in hot weather, as they may work until they develop heatstroke.
High I.Q.
The Border is considered to be one of the world’s smartest dog breeds. Helping to prove their intelligence is Chaser the Border Collie. This spectacular pooch has proven to understand the English names for more than one thousand individual objects.
Two Coat Types
There are actually two different coat types that are acceptable for the breed. The smooth coat is smooth in texture and short in length. The rough coat can range from flat to wavy in texture and is medium to long in length. However, it is still short and smooth on the face. Both types have an undercoat.
Related To Old Hemp
Unlike other dog breeds, most Borders today can claim a single common ancestor. The Border Collie Old Hemp, bred by Adam Telfer, was born in Northumberland England in 1893. Old Hemp had exceptional herding abilities and was therefore used to sire a few hundred puppies.
The Border Collie Stare
This breed is well-known for its intense stare, also known as the “collie eye.” The dog will use its stare to turn obstinate sheep when herding. It can also use the famous Border Collie stare to in effect hypnotize a single sheep so that it will stay still allowing the shepherd to catch it.
When The Job’s Done
An effective herding Border Collie needs to be able to respond to a variety of commands from the shepherd. And of course one of the most important is the command used to let the dog know that the job is done. Typically the phrase that is used for this the most is simply, “that’ll do.”
Convict Companions
In the late 1700s, the British government began sending convicts to penal colonies overseas in Australia. One of the little-known Border Collie Facts is that there were actually Borders on the first convict ships as well.
Sheep were sent on the boats to provide food and wool once they reached Australia. However, these sheep in turn needed the Collies both for protection and so that they didn’t get lost in this new and overwhelmingly large land.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Italian Dog Breeds
Welcome to our exploration of dog breeds from Italy, a land renowned for its diverse and captivating canine companions. Our Italian dog breeds list offers a glimpse into the rich heritage and unique characteristics of each breed, showcasing the depth and variety of...
French Dog Breeds
From elegant hunters to loyal guardians, France's canine companions offer a fascinating blend of history, function, and charm. Discover the diverse world of dog breeds from France with our comprehensive French dog breeds list. Delve into the tales and traditions that...
Livestock Guardian Dog Breeds
The livestock guardian dog breeds stand out for their remarkable blend of strength, loyalty, and protective instincts. This guide offers a closer look at these dedicated defenders, highlighting their history, characteristics, and the essential roles they play in...
Russian Dog Breeds
Embarking on an exploration of canines? Our Russian dog breeds list offers a deep dive into the diverse and storied world of Russia's beloved companions. From snowy terrains to bustling urban centers, discover the dogs that have shaped and been shaped by Russian...
Spitz Dog Breeds
Wirehaired Dog Breeds
Dog coats come in several different textures. Wirehaired dog breeds have stiff and harsh hair that stands away from their bodies. The wire-like texture of these canines makes them not only unique to the touch but also in appearance. So here are some of the top dog...
Merle Dog Breeds
Merle dog breeds have some of the most striking coats in all of “dogdom”. These stunning canines typically have a speckled or mottled appearance and often light-colored eyes that make them look even more unique. So here are some of the top dog breeds with merle coats...
Australian Dog Breeds
Australian dog breeds range from herders to lapdogs, and the country even has its very own native wild dog, the Dingo! All of these canines are ideally suited for life and work in the Land Down Under. That being said, here are all the dog breeds from Australia and...
Fawn-Colored Dogs
Fawn-colored dogs usually have a coat that is light brown, yellow, tan, or cream and often with a black mask. However, the shade of the coat can depend on the breed. It is considered to be one of the most attractive coat colors by many dog lovers. So here are some of...
Bulldog Breeds List
You might be surprised to learn that there are actually quite a few bulldog dog breeds. With their typically stocky appearance, short snouts, and jowls, these canines are some of the most beloved dogs on the planet. And with the help of the following bulldog breeds...
Sighthound Breeds
The sighthound breeds are a unique group of canines created to rundown various types of game. These athletes have features such as slender bodies, light bones, deep chests, and long heads which help them to perform their specific purpose as efficiently as possible....
Canadian Dog Breeds
While there are only four of them, you won’t find a hardier bunch than the Canadian dog breeds. Whether it was for work in the frigid rivers, icy coastal waters, or deep snow, each of these canines was created to perform vital tasks for their Canadian masters. So here...
Welsh Dog Breeds
From dispatchers of vermin to herders, and hunters the Welsh dog breeds all come from hardworking backgrounds. For those who love energetic pooches, these seven canines are sure not to disappoint. So here is everything you’ll want to know about the dog breeds from...
Belgian Dog Breeds
All Belgian dog breeds originally come from a working background. From small to large and from ratters to herders these canines are of course unique. So read on to find out everything you’ll want to know about the dog breeds from Belgium. Groenendael (Belgian...
Pinscher Breeds
The Pinscher breeds are a type, or family of dogs, that originally functioned as ratters, guardians, and working farm dogs. The name pinscher translates from German as to pinch or catch and is believed to describe how the dogs work when killing rodents and other...
The Best Poodle Mixes
There’s no doubt about it, in recent years Poodle mixes have become some of the most popular dogs on the planet. With so many different mixes to choose from you’ll want to know the basics of the top options out there. So here are some of the best poodle mixes and what...
Bergamasco Sheepdog Facts And Information
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a rare dog breed from the Italian Alps. It’s most famous for its unusual coat that looks similar in appearance to dreadlocks. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this special canine so here are some of the top Bergamasco Sheepdog facts...
Rare Dog Breeds
For various reasons and circumstances, certain dog breeds are much less common than others. Unfortunately, that means these special dogs are often overlooked. However, with the following list of rare dog breeds, you’ll quickly become familiar with some of the...
Dogs With Blue Eyes
There is just something so striking about the appearance of dogs with blue eyes and that makes them highly desirable as pets. Luckily there are many options to choose from for those who would like to own a light-eyed pooch. So here are some of the top dog breeds with...
Swiss Dog Breeds
While many people are familiar with the Saint Bernard and Bernese Mountain Dog, these are just two of the many dog breeds from Switzerland. From herders and hunters to mountain rescue dogs and companions, these canines each offer something different and unique. So...