With their unique black and white coloration and happy disposition, Border Collies can be recognized from across the dog park. There is no denying these dogs are adorable, loyal, and smart, but what else should you know about this breed? These dogs have a deep and interesting history and astounding character. Here are some of the most amazing facts about this bounding breed:
1. This Breed Has Been Around a Long Time
Border Collies descended from the best herding dogs from the Roman Empire and a Viking spitz breed. How did this unlikely cross occur? When emperor Claudius decided to invade the British Isles, his army brought along their own cattle and dogs to keep them in line. After centuries of selective breeding between these Roman sheepdogs and Viking herding dogs, the Border Collie was born and has been around stealing hearts ever since.
2. Most Border Collies Today Have the Same Grandpa
Old Hemp, a Border Collie born in 1893 is more like a great-great-great-great-great-great grandpa of many Border Collies alive today. Old Hemp exhibited exceptional herding ability from the incredibly young age of 6 weeks! As he grew, his owner, Adam Telfer continued to be in awe of his intelligence, instinct, and agility. Moreover, Telfer admired Old Hemp’s herding style—Old Hemp used his body position to control sheep rather than relying on barking. Others took notice, and Old Hemp’s offspring became highly sought after, so much so that he became the foundation sire of this amazing breed.
3. Border Collies Are the Brightest Among Dog Breeds
If you own a Border Collie, you know this one is true. Border Collies possess remarkable intellect. They can learn almost unlimited words, commands, and tasks when given the opportunity. In fact, one Border Collie, Chaser, learned the names of over 1,000 different objects. They also feel the urge to use this brainpower to work, work, work.
Proud Border Collie pup parents know they need to keep their collies busy and well-exercised. Long walks and lots of play are obligatory. Many collie parents rely on a safety reflective vest to keep their deeply colored best friend visible and safe. They also bring along a collapsible bowl to keep their dog hydrated and safe on long treks.
4. This Breed Breaks Records
It’s no surprise that this hard-working, easily trained dog breed mastered tasks that landed them a spot among record breakers around the world. Jumpy, a Border Collie is in the Guinness Book of World Records for skateboarding, covering 100 meters in under 20 seconds. Another collie, Sweet Pea, broke a record for balancing a can on her noggin while walking over 100 meters in about 3 minutes.
5. Border Collies Are True Heroes
Along with German Shepherds, Labs, Retrievers, and Bloodhounds, Border Collies are one of the most common search-and-rescue dogs. These brave dogs have helped find countless lost, stranded, and scared people. We bet seeing this high-contrast dog would truly be a sight for sore eyes in an emergency situation.
Border Collies Are a Brilliant Choice for a Furry Family Member
While there are so many top contenders for man and woman’s best friend, it’s hard to deny the Border Collie is an amazing breed! Because of their temperament, intelligence, and trainability, this breed makes an excellent family dog and companion for active dog owners. What’s black and white and adorable all over? The Border Collie! If you’re the number one fan of your collie, be sure you keep her happy with the tools you need to keep her mentally stimulated, safe, and exercised.
