Border Collie

Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, Border Collies were invaluable assistants to the shepherds and helped them to manage large herds of sheep. They first started to become a breed distinct from the modern Collie in the second half of the 19th century, a divergence often credited to Queen Victoria, who became enamored of the Border Collie. The breed as we know it today has been around for about a hundred years and is the world’s premier sheep herder. They possess unparalleled intelligence, herding instinct, and working ability and are known for controlling sheep with their intense gaze or “eye”. They are an extremely energetic breed that is happiest when they have a job to do and space to run. As long as their high exercise and intellectual needs are met they make good family pets and get along with well-behaved children that do not excite their strong herding instincts. They can be reserved with strangers but are loving with their families. They shed seasonally and benefit from regular brushing.

Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.

Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.

The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.

Border Collie Society of America
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