Buchanan Border Collies Texas TX
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Border Collie Breeders Austin Texas
Border Collie Kennels Austin Texas
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Border Collie Puppies for Sale with
Border Collie Pictures of Dams/Studs
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Introducing the Shepherd's Dog
The Industrial Revolution created urban markets for lamb, mutton, and wool; but how could the
vast hills of unfenced land in the Borders of Scotland and northern England be put to raising
sheep? Hardworking sheepdogs were the key, helping shepherds turn this inhospitable land into
sheep-raising country. Our modern sheep-herding collie was improved in the nineteenth century,
and the genetic refinement of its working skills occupies thoughtful livestock producers on several
continents to this day. Breeders try to balance a dozen heritable working traits to produce the best
dog for their purposes, factoring in climate, terrain, livestock type, and the kind of dog they get
along with. Guided by a skilled trainer, a talented dog develops remarkable mastery over
livestock. The true Border Collie is known by how it works sheep and cattle, and by no other
standard.
Herding Characteristics
Because their early work was to gather sheep from the hills, Border Collies are, by nature,
gatherers rather than drovers or tenders. They can, nevertheless, be taught to drive stock away
from the shepherd and even to keep their charges within certain boundaries. They are also
sensitive to commands from their handlers and can distinguish slight variations in the many
whistles they understand, responding appropriately to each tone.
Shepherds look for exceptional athletic ability, a biddable nature, and superior livestock sense. In
general, a dog that is light on its feet, flowing in its movement, quick to cover its stock, and has
great endurance is the most valued. The dog's temperament must be sensitive enough to bend its
will when asked, tough enough to stand up to the pressures of training, eager to learn, with enough
confidence and determination to carry on with its work without constant guidance. Some Border
Collies are reserved rather than outgoing, but they must love to work with and for the master.
While innate livestock sense is bred into all good working collies, their working style can vary.
Most people admire a dog that works with its head low to the ground, with its hindquarters high
and its tail tucked between its hind legs. They can run as fast as the wind, yet stop in an instant or
switch directions without stopping. They don't take their eyes off their sheep. Their intense gaze is
focused on the stock, willing them to obey, to go where the dog directs them, to stop if the dog
blocks their path. The stock aren't rushed or afraid, but they certainly respect the dog. A good
Border Collie's obsession is its livestock, and this is as it should be.
Sheepdog trials have a very practical purpose of proving the worth of the most desirable Border
Collie studs and dams. Each year, there is one, and only one, Border Collie champion: the dog or
bitch that wins the National Handlers Finals sheepdog trial sponsored jointly by the United States
Border Collie Handlers Association and the American Border Collie Association registry.
The Breeding Behind a Good Border Collie
How did Border Collies get to be such smart and useful livestock dogs? During the nineteenth
century, forward-looking shepherds felt that the faithful farm collie could be made more useful
with the addition of traits from other types of dog: the "eye" of a staunch setter, the speed and
silent nature of a racing hound. No dog has all the herding traits in perfect proportion, and the
intricate assemblage is easy to lose. Breeding a good Border Collie is not easy. It takes great
experience with dogs and herding requirements, and a bit of luck in addition.
Soundness
In the days when dogs that were unfit to work could not be kept, most dogs with physical problems
were put down. As Border Collies became more popular with farmers around the world, hobby
trials competitors, and pet and dog-sport owners, some latent problems began to surface. The
International Sheep Dog Society and the American Border Collie Association have programs that
are reducing the incidence of inherited eye diseases. All dogs should be tested by a canine
ophthalmologist, preferably between 6 and 12 weeks of age. Dogs having or producing pups which
have genetic eye abnormalities should not be bred. There is some hip dysplasia, and conscientious
breeders have radiologists certify that breeding dogs are clear of hip dysplasia. The American
Border Collie Association will record this information, as well as eye certification, on pedigrees.
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) occasionally causes shoulder lameness, and some researchers
feel there is a genetic component. Epilepsy, which can have a genetic basis, occurs occasionally.
Obviously, affected dogs should not be bred.
Appearance
While a group of one hundred Border Collies will probably look as if they belong to the same
breed, they will not have a uniform appearance. Since a "good" dog can be judged only by its
herding performance, there is no "breed standard" of appearance to which Border Collies should
conform. In general, they are of medium size (25-55 pounds), with coats that may be smooth,
medium, or rough. Colors are black, black with tan, and, less common, reddish-brown, all usually
with white markings. Predominantly white Border Collies, though unusual, also occasionally
appear.
Border Collie Registries
The original registry for working sheepdogs is the International Sheep Dog Society in Great
Britain. In 1946 two words, "Border Collie," were added to the pedigree to ensure that the dogs
were not confused with the British Kennel Club's Collie. In North America, the principal registry
for working dogs is the American Border Collie Association, Inc., 82 Rogers Road, Perkinston,
MS 39573. The only registry of Canadian Border Collies is the Canadian Border Collie
Association, K. Curtis, Secretary, RR 1, Joyceville, Ontario KOH 1YO, Canada. The United
States Border Collie Club, Inc., supports these registries for their efforts to preserve and promote
the working Border Collie.
Despite strong opposition from all people who value the genetic heritage of the breed, both the
Kennel Club in Great Britain and the American Kennel Club have taken up the registration of
Border Collies. They have imposed written physical standards as breeding guidelines and award
titles for conformation in dog shows. In Australia, New Zealand, and Britain, where a strain of
Border Collies has been bred for dog shows for twenty years or more, those dogs have a
predictable physical type, but their ability to herd livestock has been severely compromised.
The United States Border Collie Club, Inc., opposes registering Border Collies with organizations,
such as the American Kennel Club, which offer conformation classes for Border Collies. Since its
formation in 1975, a primary purpose of the USBCC has been to protect working Border Collies
from misguided efforts to create a breed based on physical characteristics instead of on skill in
herding livestock.
Border Collies for Sports and as Pets
Because they are highly motivated to work in partnership with their owners, Border Collies are
well suited to most canine sports. To compete in their performance events such as Obedience and
Tracking tests without registering with the AKC, a Border Collie owner must neuter the dog and
apply for an Indefinite Listing Privilege.
Many Border Collies and their owners enjoy the fast-growing sport of Agility, as it enhances the
relationship between dog and handler and develops a confident, bold, and motivated dog. The best
Agility is found in meets sanctioned by the United States Dog Agility Association, Inc., P. O. Box
850955, Richardson, TX 75085-0955. Some Border Collies excel in Fly Ball and Frisbee
competitions. In northern climates, Border Collie sled-dog teams are competitive in middle-
distance races.
As pets, Border Collies have a mixed record. While some people have no difficulty controlling the
dogs' herding instinct, high energy and quick minds, less-skilled owners may be frustrated by
these traits. The calm, well-behaved dogs seen at sheepdog trials are the result of careful
attention to the dogs' mental and physical needs. Border Collies that herd are fulfilled. In pet
environments, with experienced dog people who give them the structure, love, and fellowship they
crave, they can be superb pets. With less-skilled owners, unfortunately, they can become a
neurotic nuisance. An honest appraisal of your lifestyle, skills and needs before getting a Border
Collie can save you from heartache. It is very hard to find a farm home or a new pet home for a
Border Collie which has developed bad habits, and every year many Border Collies are destroyed
because they proved to be too much dog for their owners.
Care
Yes, Border Collies shed. Rough-coated dogs develop thick undercoats in winter which must be
combed out at the onset of summer's heat. Teeth must be cleaned and toenails clipped. A
veterinarian will recommend a program of vaccinations and medications. Be aware that heat
exhaustion is a killer. Border Collies often lie in shade or cool water after a hot run or hard work.
Even so, their obsessive natures do lead to unnecessary deaths from hyperthermia. Be warned,
also, that allowing them to roam free inevitably leads to trouble, as the herding instinct can be
activated by anything that moves. Border Collies' attraction to motion should be confined to safe
outlets, as most chronic car-chasing is eventually fatal. Inappropriate herding should be stopped
immediately by saying no and meaning it. The USBCC recommends spaying or neutering pet dogs
for the owners' comfort and for the sake of the breed's working instincts.
Dogs are a commitment. Before you acquire a Border Collie puppy, be sure you want to spend two
years training and thirteen more enjoying a highly energetic dog that anticipates your every move,
shares your every joy, comforts all your sorrows, and beats you in every race.
Puppies
If you need a livestock dog, it is imperative to find a puppy whose parents work to a high
standard. They should have a livestock dog temperament suited to your handling skills. If your
interest in a Border Collie pet has survived our warnings, be prepared to answer questions about
your dog-owning experience and your plans for raising a Border Collie puppy. Responsible
breeders will be very careful about where their puppies go. Visit the breeder and spend time with
the adult dogs. Temperaments vary from shy to bold, calm to excitable, although all will turn
serious when they work livestock. For whichever purpose you acquire a puppy, take care to
establish your authority and control as a kind, benevolent master. A Border Collie's personality
can be ruined by harsh treatment, neglect, or letting it assume a dominant role in the household.
People who own Border Collies like their intelligence, high energy, and their desire to participate
in every phase of human activity. However, they do take time, patience, and dog-handling skills to
develop into either a working dog or a fine companion dog. A well-trained Border Collie is a
pleasure to live with and will be reliably well behaved anywhere.
TIPS ON BUYING A BORDER COLLIE
Border collies are different from nearly all other dogs because they are bred to work livestock.
That is what defines them. It makes them the best herding dog there is, and better at most things
(including being a good companion) than breeds which are bred for appearance or "versatility." It
follows that if you want an authentic border collie, you must get one that was bred for livestock
work.
If you want a dog which will require a greater than normal investment of time and interest from
you, and will give you a greater than normal return on that investment, a border collie may be the
dog for you. Once you’ve read our overall introduction to the breed (above) here are some further
concrete tips for getting a genuine, healthy border collie pup.
DON’T BUY FROM A BREEDER WHO SHOWS IN CONFORMATION
Now that the AKC has begun registering border collies, a number of AKC breeders are trying to
turn the border collie into a show dog. Border collies should never be judged by their looks. What
would you think of a doctor or lawyer who used success in beauty contests as a professional
qualification? It is just as ludicrous to claim that a border collie’s quality is related to its success in
dog shows. Entering border collies in this type of competition is a tip-off that the person doing it
does not understand the breed.
BEWARE OF EMPTY TITLES
Show-oriented border collie breeders will often claim that their dogs have "herding instinct,"
because they know that this is the right thing to say. Generally, it’s an empty claim. People with
little livestock experience simply don’t know how to evaluate or breed for working ability, and if it’
s not bred for, it can be lost in a very few generations.
How can you recognize breeders who don’t know enough to breed for herding excellence? They
point to titles (letters before or after the dog’s name) acquired in dumbed-down AKC or other all-
breed herding trials; they point to "herding instinct certificates" (an easy, meaningless credential
that no serious breeder of working dogs would bother to get); they point to noted herding dogs
several generations back in the pups’ pedigree (there’s scarcely a border collie alive who doesn’t
have great herding dogs several generations back in his pedigree); they regard "versatility" and
"temperament" as ends in themselves, rather than as the natural accompaniment of working
ability; they often refer to their dogs as "Borders."
Where a border collie sire or dam is advertised as having title initials before or after its name, you
can be virtually sure that neither the dog nor the breeder is accomplished enough to compete in
"real" open-level sheepdog trials. Ironically, therefore, these titles prove the exact opposite of
what they are intended to prove.
BUY FROM A BREEDER OF WORKING DOGS
How can you recognize breeders who know enough to breed for herding excellence? At a minimum
they must either have a commercial livestock operation (not just a few head of "dog sheep"), or
have a proven record of accomplishment in sheep dog trials or cattle dog trials (i.e., have placed in
Open-level competition at USBCHA-sanctioned events). Success in these trials is never indicated
by initials before or after a dog’s name.
Breeders who use their dogs in these ways have an understanding and appreciation of the
essential qualities that distinguish the border collie breed, and have good reason to breed for the
preservation of these qualities.
BEWARE OF BREEDERS USING NEGATIVE ADVERTISING TO SUGGEST THAT
ANYONE NOT A MEMBER OF THEIR ORGANIZATION, AND HENCE NOT A
SUBSCRIBER TO THEIR CODE OF ETHICS, IS AN UNETHICAL BREEDER
The border collie breed was created by breeders with no connection to the AKC, or their
sanctioned club the BCSA, or their code of ethics. It is a bad sign if a breeder tries to validate
himself by club membership, or condemns those who choose not to be a member of his club,
especially when the club has been recently formed for the purpose of advocating conformation
showing and other AKC activities.
BE ALERT TO POTENTIAL HEALTH PROBLEMS
In general, border collies are a healthy breed, as is to be expected in dogs bred to work. There
are, however, a few health problems of which buyers should be aware. Border collies can inherit a
condition called Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA). Luckily, CEA can be detected by the time the dog is
six or seven weeks old. You should arrange to have your pup examined by a canine
ophthalmologist as soon as you get him, if the breeder has not already had him examined. The
ophthalmologist will be able to tell whether the pup has CEA, and if so, whether the condition will
affect the puppy's eyesight. Although CEA is often mild enough to have little or no effect on an
affected dog's vision, if CEA is found the breeder should agree to take the pup back if you so
choose. In any case where CEA is diagnosed, even if the ophthalmologist tells you that the CEA
will have no effect on your pup's vision and you prefer to keep the pup, you should notify the
breeder, so that the breeder will know not to repeat that breeding again. If your pup is found to be
free of CEA by the ophthalmologist, he will be free of it for life. It was once believed that border
collies were subject to another hereditary eye disease called PRA, but it has since become
apparent that PRA is either exceedingly rare or non-existent in the breed.
Border collies can get hip dysplasia, even if their parents show no signs of the disease in x-rays or
in their daily lives. Nothing you or the breeder can do will guarantee that your pup will not turn out
to be dysplastic, but to reduce the chances, you should ask to see certificates that the sire and
dam of the litter have been found free of dysplasia by the OFA or PennHip. You should also be
careful not to overfeed your pup, and to give him plenty of exercise (with emphasis on running
rather than jumping) to ensure that he builds the kind of muscle that helps maintain good joint
formation. Border collies can get epilepsy, which may be hereditary, but for which there is no test.
The best you can do is to question the breeder as to whether there are any known incidences of
epilepsy in the sire’s or dam’s lines. Finally, a very serious hereditary disease called ceroid
lipofuscinosis has been found in some border collies, but only in those from Australian show lines.
If you avoid buying border collies with Australian or New Zealand ancestors, CL should not be a
concern.
DON’T BUY FROM PET STORES
No reputable breeder would sell puppies to a pet store, and therefore the only pups for sale in pet
stores are those from puppy mills or from others who breed for profit rather than quality.
DON’T BUY ON IMPULSE
Getting a dog is an important decision; take time to do it right. Maybe the best thing you could do
is to go to a sheepdog trial. Look at the list of USBCHA sanctioned trials and see if there is one
near you. If you’ve never seen a trial, you will be entertained and amazed, and will learn a lot
about what these dogs are about. At a trial, you can generally talk to the handlers (but not right
before they’re scheduled to run!) and ask questions about where to get a good pup. In this way
you can learn which breeders are respected by knowledgeable border collie people, and perhaps
get to know a breeder from whom you can not only get a good dog, but learn a lot about this
unique and wonderful breed.
Living with Border Collies
Please copy and distribute this pamphlet only in its entirety.
For excerpt permission contact the USBCC at info@bordercollie.org
In loving memory of Val Maurer’s Moss – One in a Lifetime
For centuries, the Border Collie has toiled tirelessly in his service to us. As the premier herding
dog in the world, he has gathered large flocks from great distances and found lost stock in the
worst of weather. But more than a herding dog, he has been a war dog, a sled dog, a therapy and
assistance dog, a competitive sports dog, a search and rescue dog, a hunting dog and, always, a
companion dog. Whatever we have asked the Border Collie to do, he has done. He has never
wavered, never faltered, never quit, and never said no to his human partner. It is only fair that we
return the favor.
Living with Border Collies was developed in an effort to ensure that people who decide to live with
these wonderful dogs understand them and their unique qualities, so that all Border Collies will
have homes where they are loved and appreciated. Val Maurer, founder and director of BCRO
(Border Collie Rescue Organization), researched, wrote and re-wrote this pamphlet over many
years, drawing on her own experience and that of rescuers with whom she worked. The United
States Border Collie Club is grateful for the opportunity to distribute this pamphlet. We do so in
large part through funds raised by Val and donated by her many friends and colleagues as a
memorial to her good dog Moss.
The United States Border Collie Club, Inc. (USBCC) is dedicated to preserving the Border Collie
as a working stock dog, opposing the showing, judging, and breeding of Border Collies based upon
their appearance, promoting the breeding only of sound and healthy animals free of genetic
defects, and encouraging Border Collie owners to work with their dogs in the many canine sports
at which Border Collies excel.
Description of the Border Collie
Border Collies should be selectively bred for intelligence and working ability. To herd sheep on
the mountains and moorlands of the British Isles, a Border Collie needs to meet certain criteria.
He has to be independent enough to make his own decisions when he is at a distance from the
shepherd. He must control his predatory instincts so he protects the sheep instead of killing them
for food---as a wolf must do for survival. He also needs to nip or grip, at times, to control and
move his sheep. He needs the stamina to work in heat or cold, to dart up and down steep hills, and
to ignore minor injuries in the course of a workday. He also must be bred with a desire to work
with, and subordinate to, his human companion, regardless of whether he is at a great distance or
striving to save a newborn lamb.
A Border Collie can be anywhere from 25 pounds to 65 pounds. The coat can be rough (long coat),
semi-rough, or smooth (short-haired). The coat colors vary. The typical colors are black & white,
but Border Collies are also red & white, tri-colored (brown, black & white), liver, blue merle, red
merle, yellow, or white with small amounts of brown, black, or red. Freckling on the muzzle and
legs is common. The eye colors range from amber to dark brown and sometimes blue. The ear
carriage can be pricked, semi-erect, dropped, or a combination. The bone structure ranges from
lightweight and graceful to heavy-boned and majestic. In herding, Border Collies circle and stalk
the object of interest.
The herding pose is head and forelegs lowered, eyes intense, tail down with bottom third of tail
upturned. They can become focused on any moving object, even tiny insects. It is the attitude
toward life and work, not looks, that distinguishes a dog as being a Border Collie.
Work is an attitude, not necessarily a specific task. Obedience competitions, agility contests,
Frisbee events, flyball, visits to nursing homes, throwing a tennis ball in the backyard all can be
considered work by your Border Collie. Observe the dog; if his body position is in a working pose,
then he considers that particular task to be work. Add Sits, Downs, Waits, and That'll do's into the
routine as added mental stimulation. Unlike some breeds, Border Collies love to learn new things
throughout their lives. When it comes to Border Collies, you can teach an old dog new tricks!
However, there is a downside to this attitude. Never teach a Border Collie something you don't
want to live with for the rest of his life. That "cute" puppy trick can be extremely irritating or
even dangerous when your darling little puppy becomes a workaholic 50 pound adult.
KEY DOGS OF THE BORDER COLLIE FAMILY by Sheila Grew
THE VERSATILE BORDER COLLIE by Janet E. Larson
THE WORKING BORDER COLLIE by Marjorie Quarton & Carole Presberg
Selecting a Border Collie
If you’ve never lived with a Border Collie, consider fostering a dog for a local rescuer. You can
save a Border Collie’s life while deciding if the breed’s mental and physical requirements fit into
your family’s lifestyle. Older pups and adult dogs will bond with a new family. Dogs know when
they’ve been saved and most develop a deep desire to work with the new people in their lives.
Around seven weeks old, puppies need to make a general attachment to humans as a species, not
a specific attachment to a particular human. A young pup raised around small children is not a
guarantee the pup will grow up being good around children. Nature is as important as nurture in
determining if an individual Border Collie adores children, is intimidated by children, or tries to
control children.
Some Border Collies will use submissive behavior to manipulate and control us. Others will bark
and carry on like they're having a temper tantrum. Still others will use every expression and
gesture you have ever found cute to get their own way. Living with a young Border Collie is like
living with an intelligent toddler. It requires dedicated time and effort to survive the experience!
A puppy goes through many stages until the adult age of 2 to 3 years. At age 5 to 6 months, the
pup gets his adult teeth. This is a major chewing and destructive period. This is the time when the
pup also experiments with guarding and confrontational behaviors. It is similar to a child's
"terrible twos."
THE DOG’S MIND by Bruce Fogle
Health Problems
Border Collies are basically a hardy breed; however, they can be subject to some inherited
diseases such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), canine hip dysplasia, and deafness. Some could have
epilepsy and endocrine diseases, with unknown inheritance factor. Osteochondritis Dissecans
(OCD) is a shoulder lameness that can develop between the ages of 4 to 12 months. Allergies and
skin conditions also occur.
Keep handy a first-aid kit and your vet's phone number. Because Border Collies are very
physically active, they are prone to athletic injuries, such as pulled muscles, cruciate ligament
ruptures, cuts and punctures, ripped toenails and footpads. The dog also requires vaccinations,
heartworm test and preventative, license, spay/neuter, and premium dog food (a combination of
high quality dry and moist foods is best). I disagree. I highly recommend only dry food and dry
treats or my experience shows the dog will develope premature tooth and gum problems.-
Buchanan Border Collies Texas
DOG OWNER'S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK by Carlson and Giffin
THE HEALING TOUCH by Michael Fox
Puppy Checklist
_____ Do you have the time for a long, sometimes hectic, puppy stage?
If not, consider adopting an adult Border Collie.
_____ Can you understand the pup's pedigree and its significance? If not,
find a local person who knows Border Collie breeding to advise you.
_____ Can the breeder show you certification that the parents are free of
hip dysplasia and that the pup is free of Collie Eye Anomaly?
_____ Did you ask why these parents were selected for breeding?
_____ Did the breeder ask about your reason for wanting a Border Collie?
_____ Does the breeder seem to care, or are the pups strictly a business?
_____ Are the pups at least 6 to 8 weeks old? Have the pups been given
their first shots and been de-wormed? Is their “den” clean?
_____ Are the parents well-behaved and reasonably friendly toward your family?
_____ Have the pups been raised in an expanding environment, with both
indoor and outdoor living and socializing with people and other animals?
Pups are generally priced from $300-$600. Good puppies are expensive to breed and raise and
should be priced accordingly. However, the price is not a guarantee of a good dog, and health
problems can occur in any breeding program, no matter how careful and knowledgeable the
breeder is. Your purchase decides which breeders and rescuers prosper. Your purchase can help
or hinder cash crop breeders and puppy mills. Your purchase decision is vital for the future of this
breed. Choose your breeder with care, and never buy from pet shops.
Border Collies and Children
Herding the neighborhood kids and giving an occasional light nip to a rear end or ankle might
seem like a funny game in the beginning. But what happens when the children want to go one way
and you've inadvertently trained your Border Collie to treat them as livestock? The game is now
serious business, with scared children and a dog euthanized for aggressive behavior. Don’t let this
happen! Every time the pup or dog thinks about herding kids, have the kids stop playing with the
dog for a few minutes, then go back to the same game in the same area of the yard, with a few new
rules. Dogs and kids can have a terrific relationship—when an adult or the kids control the games.
Border collies are great at soccer, frisbee, softball, tetherball, touch football, and basketball. But
first, to teach the Border Collie who's in charge, have the children help with obedience lessons or
taking the dog for a controlled, heeling-type walk. Once the Border Collie learns to heel, small
children can take the dog for a walk if the child uses an 18" leash while an adult chaperones the
lesson with a 6' leash clipped to the dog's collar. Train a Border Collie to listen to children by
praising him when he responds and assisting the children when he doesn't. Teach children to treat
dogs with respect. Kids can use a stuffed dog for practice sessions.
CHILD-PROOFING YOUR DOG by Brian Kilcommons
DOG TRAINING FOR CHILDREN by Ian Dunbar
EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY by Ian Dunbar
Crate-Training
Crating a puppy or a recently adopted adult when he's unsupervised is a safety issue. Confining a
Border Collie puppy to a bathroom or kitchen is both undesirable and dangerous. These pups can
tear up linoleum floors, chew and dig through walls, open drawers and cabinets. Crates can be bad
if they are too small or if the pup is confined too long. Crating a pup for nine hours during the day
is abuse. If someone cannot let the puppy out every 2 to 3 hours for exercise and interaction,
adopt an older pup or adult dog.
A crate is a haven when life gets to be too much. A crate is a haven for the dog when children get
too rough with him. A crate is also a haven for us when we need time away from a dog’s antics!
The advantages of crate-training include:
When traveling with your dog: motels that allow dogs have crate requirements. Dog events,
especially training clinics, are tiring---he'll need some rest. Introducing a dog to a crate for the
first time while he is ill or recuperating from surgery adds undue stress. Crate the dog when other
people will be in his home for repair work or cleaning.
With a pup, a small plastic crate can easily be moved around the house. Toss treats and toys into
the crate and, at first, shut the door for only a few minutes. Use it to teach the pup a daily routine.
The crate can be moved from beside a chair to beside a bed, to the kitchen, or to the dining room.
The pup will be in and out of the crate in these different places, learning his daily routine. Caution:
if the crate is used only when you leave, the pup may develop a dislike for the crate and develop a
separation anxiety. Don't make a fuss about leaving or returning. A radio or TV can be left on to
help him cope with being alone.
Recommendations for House-Training
After the puppy has been confined in a crate 2 to 3 hours (4 to 6 hours for adults):
1. In a quiet, up-beat manner, take him on leash to the bathrooming area.
2. Choose a bathrooming phrase you are comfortable with, such as “Go potty” or “Hurry up,” and
say the phrase a few times. Keep this as low-key as possible. If the dog can’t run around to
investigate interesting smells, he’ll go to the bathroom out of sheer boredom.
3. If the dog does his “business” within a maximum of 5 minutes, say, “Good (bathrooming
phrase),” then play fetch, give him a treat, or let him romp around in his yard.
4. If he doesn’t “go,” take him back to the crate for another half hour (young pup) or an hour
(older pup or adult dog), then try again.
Take a few days to concentrate on housetraining. Learn the dog's bathrooming habits. Some dogs
are more comfortable with shrubs or fencing to protect their privacy. Other dogs need to urinate
twice each time they bathroom. A few dogs teach their owners to take long, frequent strolls
around the yard or neighborhood; use the 5 minute system to prevent this.
Your Border Collie will quickly learn that the fun part of his day doesn't begin until after he's been
a "good" dog outside. Rubbing a Border Collie's nose in an "accident," smacking him on the rear
end, or yelling at him increases housetraining problems.
Females need a bathrooming phrase or they won't relieve themselves in new territory for about 24
hours. Intact males mark everywhere, including inside buildings, for the first hour in new territory.
Walking a Border Collie
Many Border Collies want to forge (pull the handler forward) while on-leash. To eliminate this
problem, start by holding a treat or toy in front of the dog's nose (dog is on a buckle collar and 6'
leash, in 'heel' position) while taking a quick walk in the home. Praise and intermittent rewards
will teach the dog to stay in heel position. Outdoors, to keep the dog's attention on staying in heel
position use a combination of luring with treats or toys plus changing directions without saying
anything to warn of the changes. Every time a Border Collie forges, change direction or pace. The
surprise element keeps a Border Collie's attention on the handler.
Promise collars are beneficial as a temporary training tool for dealing with specific problems, such
as a Border Collie looking at the world instead of his handler. Use of this collar as a basic training
collar for all lessons may cause anxiety and dependency issues for Border Collies. This seems to
be a breed-specific problem.
Most Border Collies learn easily and happily. Some may require the temporary training use of a
light (not medium or heavy) pinch collar. Children and disabled adults are safer when a Border
Collie wears a pinch collar---less chance of the dog pulling them off-balance. Do not use a pinch
collar on Border Collies younger than 8 months without a behaviorist's supervision. The training
application is similar to
the way an adult dog will use his teeth on a puppy’s neck to guide and instruct the puppy.
Beginners should seek the advice of a trainer to learn the correct techniques in fitting and using
pinch collars. The proper way to fit and use a pinch collar as benign guidance is described in:
DOG LOGIC, COMPANION OBEDIENCE by Joel McMains
Heel position – The dog is walking at the handler’s left side, with his head to shoulder area in line
with the handler’s left hip.
Training Tips
Tone of voice is extremely important. To speed up a Border Collie, pitch the voice high and quick.
Lower the pitch and drag out the words to slow him down. For corrections, lower the voice even
more and say the words in a growly tone. Most of the time, talk to a Border Collie in a
conversational tone. Whisper to a Border Collie to improve his attention.
To bring a Border Collie toward you, move away from him. To push him away, move toward him.
Take two steps backwards and hunker down to pull a Border Collie all the way to you. Let your
emotions show through your eyes to your Border Collie's eyes. To show disappointment, look at
your Border Collie and then deliberately look away. If the Border Collie isn't paying attention,
throw up your hands and walk away. He'll come up to you and ask for another chance. Give him
that chance by calmly taking him through the same situation, this time using a leash and treats as
guidance. Set him up to succeed.
Border Collies like a chance to think about new things in relative quiet. Use an hour of "Peace &
Quiet" (see page 10) after lessons for any Border Collie, either rescued or raised in one home
from a pup. This results in quicker and steadier learning.
Tie your dog's 6' leash to your belt while teaching him his daily chore routines. Whether his
chores include picking up laundry scattered around the house or keeping you company while
you're caring for the livestock, learning the routine while "attached" to you is the easiest way to
teach him the pattern of your lifestyle.
Training stick: Use 5' length, 3/4" diameter PVC pipe, capped on one end. Pour in 1/8 cup of BBs
and cap the other end. This stick is effective for herding, breaking up dog fights, eliminating
foodguarding. A sharp tap on the ground in front of the dog's legs startles him without scaring him.
A tap on the ground near his shoulder will move him away if he's herding too close to livestock or
other dogs. To refocus the dog on listening and working with you, lay the stick on the ground next
to you and give him a quiet word of encouragement. He should respect the correction and
startlement effect of the training stick, not fear it.
Hunker down---bend at the knees, keep the torso straight. Use a hunker down when a pup or dog
is in a new environment or around dogs enduring stress. Only bend or crouch (torso towards the
dog) around relaxed and socialized dogs.
Basic Border Collie Manners
Name recognition: Say the dog's name, then give him a treat. Keep repeating as often as it takes
for the dog to start turning his head whenever he hears his name.
Recall: Use the leash in the house, a longline outside. Say the dog's name to get his attention,
then an upbeat "Here!" If he doesn't turn around immediately, give a light tug on the line. When
the dog comes, give praise, a treat, and a hug. Make recalls the best thing in your dog's life. If the
dog is hesitant, take a few steps backward after calling him and hunker down.
Praise: Ask the dog to do something, like a Sit. When he's sat, tell him "Good Sit." The use of
praise with the request gives the dog a chance to learn faster. Give him praise for figuring out on
his own what he should do. If we remember to praise him for thinking, we help him to be a
mannerly dog on his own and not just a robot. Quietly praise during the correct action.
Correction: To stop an action, give a "No!" or an "Ah-Ah!" noise in a growly tone. This
corrective growl is useless if it isn't immediately followed by a lesson and praise for the proper
action.
Jumping: Teach the dog to sit for attention. If the dog already has a habit of jumping on people,
say "Off!" and quickly turn away from the dog. Do not push the dog away with your hands;
touching rewards him for jumping. Withdraw your attention from the dog until he Sits. To reinforce
the Sit, hunker down to the dog's level; he'll be calmer when he's close to your face. A "Hug!" can
later be added, if the dog is to be allowed to jump in certain circumstances.
Barking: Respect your dog by investigating why he is barking. If it’s something he shouldn’t be
barking at, just walk away from him in a disappointed manner, muttering about how stupid he is
(Border Collies hate being called stupid). If he barks appropriately, praise him. Allow your dog to
bark 2 or 3 times before saying “Enough!” and give him a treat. It’s hard to bark and swallow at
the same time. The result is a trustworthy watchdog.
Naptime: Give yourself and your Border Collie a break now and then. Say “Go to bed” and throw
a treat into the crate (kennel) or dog-proofed room. Teach him with short sessions at first until the
dog learns he isn’t being permanently abandoned.
Sit, Down & Stay: Raise a treat slowly over the dog's nose and say "Sit." The rump should go
down as the nose comes up. After the dog knows Sit, slowly tap a treat along the floor in front of
the dog's nose as you're dragging out the word "Down." After the dog knows Down, put a treat a
few inches in front of his nose, say "Stay" and hold him in place by his collar. When he relaxes
into the Stay reward him by bringing the treat to him.
Release: Whatever the dog has, you have something better. If he has a toy in his mouth, take a
treat over to him, hold it in front of his nose, and say "Release!" as you offer him the treat.
That'll do!: Every time a job is finished, say "That'll do." This will teach the Border Collie to quit
and come to you. To prevent him from ignoring a "That'll do," use intermittent reinforcement
techniques (see page 14). For example: he's been catching Frisbees. Withdraw the Frisbee, give a
"That'll do," walk a short distance with your dog and wait until he is calm and attentive. Tell him
"Ball!" and toss a tennis ball for him a few times. The surprise of one job ending with the
possibility of another job beginning makes a reliable "That'll do." Use a "That'll do" with all his
activities, be it obedience, herding or tennis balls. He will respond better to "That'll do" than a
Recall or a Down when he is overly excited about something, if you've been consistent.
BEGINNING FAMILY DOG TRAINING by Patricia McConnell
Socialization
Socializing your new Border Collie is very important. Teach your dog how you want him to greet
people. A simple “Sit-Stay” until guests are ready to play with your dog will impress your friends
and family with your dog’s manners and your training ability. Take him out and about in the world.
Let him play with healthy, vaccinated dogs. After he’s learned his basic manners in a quiet
environment, slowly increase his manners practice sessions in more demanding environments.
Border Collie Personalities
Temperament types from EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE by Daniel Goleman
A bold personality will need a reason for doing anything. He will always be testing the boundaries
you’ve set. He will be the quickest to protest if you withhold work for some reason. He can also be
the dog you depend on most, if you’ve earned his respect and trust.
DOG LOGIC, COMPANION OBEDIENCE by Joel McMains
A timid personality will need lots of encouragement. Give a timid dog at least three days to adjust
to new situations and training. Don’t give up on socializing this type of dog, but always start new
training in a quiet environment. Gradually work up to loud, stressful situations. This Border Collie
will be your emotional support when you’ve had a bad day.
CAUTIOUS CANINE by Patricia McConnell
A melancholy personality can be either frustrating or amusing. This dog will quit and lie down in a
corner if things don’t go his way. Just ignore him for awhile—even these pouters are workers and
will come around. Combine training with rewards of his favorite activities.
PLAY TRAINING YOUR DOG by Patricia Gail Burnham
An upbeat personality takes life as it comes and makes the best of it. He watches everything. You
won’t realize the dog is learning until he amazes you with his new skills. He’s a stable, versatile
dog. He’ll do everything asked of him; be careful not to overwhelm him.
HOW TO TEACH A NEW DOG OLD TRICKS by Ian Dunbar
Border Collie Traits
If your Border Collie is already nipping at people’s heels or hands, say “Ouch!” in a growling tone
of voice and totally withdraw your attention from the dog for 5 minutes. Then go back to playing
the same game with the dog. Keep doing this until the dog understands it’s the hard biting that
stops playtime. Teach him how to have a soft mouth.
DOG PROBLEMS by Carol Lea Benjamin
Border Collies have play growls and real growls. Play growls normally occur while the dog is
shaking a floppy toy or playing tug-of-war. It's impossible to reliably prevent small children from
initiating tug games with dogs. It is safer to teach dogs the concept of tug-of-peace. It involves a
"Release," a "Get it," and withdrawal of attention if the dog gets grabby or excited. Also, let the
dog win a game of tug when he's had a confidence-shattering day.
DOGS LOVE TO PLEASE...WE TEACH THEM HOW! by September Morn
It's easy to unintentionally teach a Border Collie to be possessive of food or toys. The puppy
gives a bark or growl, so you back off in surprise. This reaction rewards the pup. To prevent this,
play a game centered around whatever he has, you have something better. When your pup has a
toy, show him you have a fantastic treat, ask him to "Drop it." When he does, give him the treat.
If he guards his food bowl, blithely walk by his bowl and drop in some terrific treats. He'll want
people to walk around his bowl and take his toys or bones.
BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS IN DOGS by William Campbell
DOGS ARE FROM NEPTUNE by Jean Donaldson
ON TALKING TERMS WITH DOGS: CALMING SIGNALS by Turid Rugaas
Rehomed and Rescued Border Collies
Peace & Quiet: The first steps to a new life for an older pup or adult Border Collie is 3 to 7 days
of "peace & quiet" and a name change, unless your rescuer has already taken the dog through
this phase. The rescue probably endured all kinds of stress before he was saved---let him get
some rest before exposing him to this big, noisy world of ours.
The new Border Collie stays in a crate away from other dogs and the noise of household activity.
Only one person works with the dog during this stage. Let the Border Collie out, on leash, 4 to 5
times a day, for fifteen to thirty minutes each time. This technique is hard on people, but it works
like a re-birth into a new and better life for the dog. He'll learn to trust the person who is the
source of all encouragement, water, food, directions, and hugs.
Isolation gives the Border Collie a chance to learn his new environment in a relaxed, safe
atmosphere. His brain has a chance to stay calm and receptive to new lessons. He has a chance to
grieve or recover from his previous life experiences. Teach the dog as if he's an 8 week old pup;
use clear instructions and encouragement. This is also a good time to teach or reinforce
housetraining and basic manners. The most important thing to remember is to set the dog up for
success every time he's with people.
The amount of "peace & quiet" is determined by the dog's reaction. The dog should be happy, but
not hysterically so. He should have a calmness in his eyes and show enthusiasm for being with
someone. A desire to learn will appear in the dog's posture and response time. When this
happens, the dog is ready to learn more of his new world.
THE ADOPTION OPTION by E. Rubenstein & S. Kalina
The Grizzly Bear’s Gonna Get Me!
Border Collies live by the principle that just because you don’t see a grizzly bear, doesn’t mean it
isn’t there! Males, running to mark over puppies’ bathrooming spots, are hiding the scent of the
puppies from the grizzly. Some females hide puppies this way. Males mark over some females’
bathrooming spots and not others. This may be a mating ritual or choosing some as pack members
and letting others fend for themselves.
Males sniff and mark new territory. They need 15 minutes in new territory before we can expect
them to pay attention to what we want. That fifteen minutes is spent exploring the territory and
marking it to scare away any grizzlies that might be lurking around. Females do not want to leave
their scent on new territory because their scent could attract a grizzly. It doesn't matter if the
females are spayed and never had puppies; they still protect against the possibility of their
puppies getting killed by the grizzly.
When a Border Collie is focused on something in front of him, anyone touching him from behind
could be a grizzly. He'll whip his head around so fast that he can accidentally cut a person with his
teeth. It's very important to teach children not to come up behind a Border Collie and touch him
on the hips or shoulders.
When a Border Collie barks at a stranger, especially one wearing a funky hat or clothing, it could
be a grizzly bear in disguise! When a Border Collie barks frantically every time the doorbell rings,
he's scaring the grizzly bear away from his family. Prevent this by teaching him how to confidently
greet strangers.
When a Border Collie is startled out of a deep sleep, he might snap or growl. When someone
comes into his home unexpectedly, he'll go into frenzied barking, mainly from embarrassment at
being caught sleeping on the job. When he's with his family but visiting in someone else's home,
he'll go overboard with barking at anyone coming into his family's room or walking in the hallway
at night. These are all easily controlled grizzly bear situations; the sound of a cordial voice
prepares him to encounter a friend.
If your Border Collie has encountered a "grizzly bear," he'll need help from you in similar
situations so he can think about what is really happening and how to deal with it in a civilized way.
Occasionally, a Border Collie needs medication to ease his fears. Tranquilizers and anti-anxiety
medications by themselves are not enough. Medications combined with effective training
techniques can make a tremendous difference.
DIARY OF A 'DOTTY DOG' DOCTOR by John Fisher
PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY OF ANIMAL BEHAVIOR DISORDERS by Dodman and Shuster
Herding with Border Collies
An inexperienced handler working with an inexperienced Border Collie and inex-perienced
livestock can end in injury to at least one of the 3 species. Be prepared to invest time and money
in learning before you take a new dog into the field.
Help in training is available in a variety of ways. Purchasing a started dog or sending your dog to
a professional trainer will cost more money than time. You still need to invest the time to learn
what your dog already knows. Herding clinics, herding books, and videos take more time than
money.
At first, the expense of a started dog, herding clinics, books, videos, or lessons with an
experienced handler doesn't seem worth the bother, but the investment will eventually pay off in
time saved and chiropractor bills avoided!
Carefully choose the right disposition of the Border Collie for your livestock. A calmer, level-
headed dog is just right for a small dairy herd (as long as he has the spunk or training to nip
wayward cows). A dog with great stamina and dive-in style is good for discouraging geese (as long
as the dog is trained not to hurt the geese).
It's also important to understand what type of dog you enjoy working with. An easy, people-
pleasing temperament is the right type of Border Collie to work with young 4-H students. People
who can't help but yell and stomp around a bit when they are frustrated would be better off with a
dog with a more dominant personality that won't take the yelling personally. If, after you've done
all the right research and tried various training methods, you still end up with the wrong Border
Collie for you or your livestock, contact the breeder or your local rescuer to find an appropriate
new home for your dog (if you have no time for the activities this dog enjoys). Chalk it up to lack
of experience and keep looking.
A WAY OF LIFE by H. Glyn Jones
HERDING DOGS: PROGRESSIVE TRAINING by Vergil Holland
LESSONS FROM A STOCKDOG by Bruce Fogt
TRAINING AND WORKING DOGS by Scott Lithgow
Started dog – generally means that the dog is learning to balance, is going around, and can stay on
the opposite side of sheep. Sometimes this definition is stretched a little to include beginning a
short outrun and learning flank commands, but never more than that. Expect only the beginning of
balancing and no outrun to speak of.
Thunderstorms & Loud Noises
Border Collies have a high startle reflex, which can sometimes endanger their lives. The
suddenness of a clap of thunder, a gunshot, fireworks, or even just a book dropping on the floor
can startle Border Collies into an over-reaction. These over-reactions can include nipping at the
closest objects, dogs or people; leaping onto the lap of the person they feel will protect them;
frenzied barking at the noise to scare it away; and, the most dangerous reaction of all, fleeing
from the noise.
Give your Border Collie a routine to follow for sudden loud noises. Practice this routine (use a
leash or a long-line during practice sessions) by using small sudden noises first and progressing
towards louder noises until the dog tolerates the really big scary noises safely. Find a routine that
can be adapted to use while you are outside doing activities with your dog, in the home while
relaxing, and that the dog can use when alone.
One routine is to attach an activity the dog loves to the noise the dog fears. If the dog loves to
play with squeaky toys, play with the dog and then make a small noise. When the dog flees, coax
the dog back by enticing with the toy while gently pulling the dog towards you with the leash. The
dog’s reward for coming to you (no matter how long it takes the first few times) is another play
session. Your dog will learn to enjoy what used to be scary. Another routine is to teach the dog to
flee towards a safe goal, such as a crate placed in a quiet area of your home.
BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS IN DOGS by William Campbell
THE DOG WHO LOVED TOO MUCH by Nicholas Dodman
This and That
The following paragraphs are quick suggestions and opinions.
Multiple Dog Households
Slowly introduce the new dog to other dogs in the household. It is a stress to the new dog and the
established pack to form new relationships. The new dog will be gaining confidence over the next
6 months, new problems and challenges can occur during this stage. Supervise or separate the
dogs during all transition and development stages for their safety.
Generally, two Border Collies are easier to live with than one. A one year minimum difference in
age, one of each sex, and/or diverse personalities is the calmest way to live with two Border
Collies. Let the dogs establish their own hierarchy of responsibilities to a certain degree.
Remember that humans run the household and make the final rules. We don’t recommend letting
dogs “fight it out.”
DOG BEHAVIOR by Ian Dunbar
Intermittent Reinforcement
Intermittent reinforcement is like playing the lottery. A person does a consistent action (paying
for a lottery ticket) and receives an inconsistent reaction (no cash, some cash, huge amount of
cash). Intermittent reinforcement is a good reward system for a Border Collie after he’s learned
the basics using the lure/reward system.
SMART TRAINERS: BRILLIANT DOGS by Janet Lewis
Intermittent Corrections
Intermittent corrections create the same effect of encouraging a behavior as do intermittent
reinforcements. A Border Collie who is yelled at some of the time for jumping on people, petted
some of the time for jumping, and ignored some of the time has actually been taught to always
jump on people. A Border Collie who can ignore a Recall is actually being taught to not come
when he's called. If he's dragging a longline or leash when he's Recalled, he can't ignore the
command. Use tabs, leashes and longlines throughout the lure/reward and intermittent
reinforcement stages of learning to help him learn manners and safety.
Border Collie Work Ethic
If you don't find jobs for your dog, he'll find his own. Most of the time, you won't like the jobs your
Border Collie finds! More annoying jobs can be things like herding squirrels, digging giant craters
in the backyard, constantly whining and pushing at people, or cornering cats and holding them
there for hours. Border Collies' more dangerous jobs can be herding cars, swooping out at people
and ferociously barking which can be misinterpreted as viciousness, or herding owners which
could lead to a nasty fall.
If he's already chasing cats, the easiest way to control the behavior is to turn herding cats into a
job he does with you in control. If he's digging craters in the backyard, create a digging hole for
him out of harm's way. If he's constantly whining, give him the security of a consistent daily
schedule of play, work, suppertime, and bedtime. If he's already chasing cars, get some help
before he's seriously injured or dead.
Aggression
Get help, but be careful. Border Collies are often misdiagnosed by veterinarians and behaviorists
with little or no experience with this breed. There are many complicated factors in dealing with
aggression problems.
People have language to communicate angers, fears, and pains. We can call for help or remove
ourselves from tense or dangerous situations. We can use our teeth, fists, clubs, knives, guns, and
nuclear weapons. If one person kills another, our system might throw him in prison for awhile. But
our dogs have few options for communicating their angers, fears, and pains to us. Warning growls,
lip-curls, and biting are part of a dog's language. When a dog is hurt, confused, or scared and
protects himself by displaying what we call aggression, our system condemns him to death.
Doesn't seem quite fair!
FOR A LIST OF BOOKS ON BORDER COLLIES SEE: http://www.bordercollie.org/bordbib.html
Thank you for your interest in Border Collies-Buchanan Border Collies Texas