By: Kelly Marshall
Submitted: 2008-11-24 15:43:03 | Word Count: 502
The Border Collie has been bred for more than 100 years with functionality as the main concern. These sheep herding dogs were known to be plentiful in Great Britain during the 1800s and they were made up of an assortment of types. Many of these dogs were known to be “fetching” dogs who had the strength to circle stock and lead them back towards the shepherd.
Sheepdogs, referred to as Border Collies, became extremely well known in 1873. They were deemed as the first official sheepdog trial took place to test the character and function of these dogs. This eventually led to one of the first well known Border Collies known as “Hemp”.
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Hemp did very extremely well at the trials and sired a far beyond the offspring. As a matter of fact, he is referred to as the father of the Border Collie. Hemp s way of herding was done with fear while using eye contact with the livestock.
Although these animals were very well known to the public and functioned very well at their sheepdog skills, it wasn t until 1915 that “Border Collie” was officially deemed as the correct name for the breed. When the Border Collie finally came to America they were immediately appraised by serious shepherds who needed the animal s superb herding skills. Astoundingly enough, it took as long as the year 1995 for the AKC to officially recognize the Border Collie as a show dog.
The Border Collie’s Personality Traits
As far as the nature of this animal is concerned, Border Collie dogs have huge quantities of intelligence and is very obedient. While these characteristics are good, it can make for a devastating house dog when kept isolated and with very little exercise. Border Collies are considered to be loyal and protective towards its family, so be well prepared for its aloof and guardian like personality to spring up when in the presence of other dogs and other strange animals.
How to Take Care Of Your New Border Collie
This is one dog that really benefits from physical and mental stimulation on a day to day basis. You can easily say that the border collie simply “needs a job to do” whenever there is an opportunity to do so. This dog is very work oriented and genetically programmed for work.
Border Collie dogs can even live outside during very mild to cool weather, but of course it would rather stay indoors while it enjoys the company of its, especially during the evening. This is one animal that should not be forced to live in a small apartment.
Health Information For Your Pet
Border Collie s have can live up to 15 years, with 12 being the average lifespan. Luckily, this dog breed does not have many health problems, so you won’t have to worry about unforeseen health issues arising. The only major health concern is CHD and minor health issues that may come up are hypothyroidism, PRA, PDA, CEA, seizures, OCD, and lens luxation, but this a rare case.
