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Border Collie

The most popular working dogs in Britain and recognized around the world as the top sheepherding dogs, Collies are the result of careful selective breeding from herding and fetching stock.  The standards established for this breed in 1906 were, unusually, not based on physical attributes, but on working ability.  The Border Collie was first recognized in 1955 by the AKC for inclusion in the Miscellaneous Class.

Breed Category

Herding Dog

Temperament

These dogs must have daily stimulation or else they will revert to destructive and occasionally aggressive behavior.  They have strong predatory instincts, which is what gives them their herding talents.  Intelligent and responsive dogs, they are generally not happy as urban house pets and will become snappy if bored.

Appearance

Border Collies are of a medium size and are strongly boned with an athletic appearance.  They combine grace and stamina with agility and ability.  The coat can be rough, or smooth and short all over the body.  Colors vary, including black, brown, red, black and white, tricolor, or merle; eyes are deep-set and brown.  The head is well defined, with a tapering and slightly blunt muzzle.

Size:    Height at withers 18-22 in

Weight:    30-45 lbs  

Exercise Requirements:    Considerable

Grooming Requirements:    Moderate

Life Expectancy:    10-14 years

Things to Consider

1. Not well-suited to an urban environment

 

Source

Information taken from "DOGS: An Owner's Guide"

Writer and Editor: Helen Stillwell

Photo taken from www.akc.org