Border collies are delightful looking dogs. Their black and white coloring is highly distinctive (and often passed on when they are crossed with other breeds). As puppies they have flopped ears, which become half-erect as adults. If a border’s ears are fully erect, they have all of their attention on something.

These are not dogs for the faint hearted. Border collies require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They are great agility and obedience dogs, but if you leave them alone, they become very destructive very quickly – not good dogs to leave in an apartment all day. A border collie needs a job, be that job competing in agility or enjoying a regular game of frisbee. They love to play catch.

If getting a border collie pup, make sure they are from show or, even better, obedience lines. Some farm lines have been kept outside as working dogs for generations and they can be aggressive. Unlike most breeds, the dogs are generally easier to handle than the bitches – a neutered male is the best. Understand that these are lively, playful dogs that are very high energy. They also like to herd things. If they don’t have anything else to herd, they will herd you. Many borders will insist on doing a little twist to get behind you when going through gates or doors. This is frustrated herding behavior. Herd dogs have had their prey drive reprogrammed into a herd drive and it’s very strong. The behavior does weaken if the dog is given something else to think about.

Even more than most breeds, it’s recommended to take your border collie to puppy obedience classes and consider working for the CGC (Canine Good Citizen) certificate. Many borders prefer to walk off the leash to on it and leash training them can take longer.

However, borders are extremely intelligent and very loyal dogs. A border collie is a friend for life and although they might chew their stuff, they will also never let you down. Their antics are always fun and they can easily be trained to bring you things other than your ball, or pick things up off the ground. Border collies are also good companions for the sporting set. They’ll happily go for a long run with you. And with their gorgeous markings, they stand out from the crowd.