RUFUS

Border Collie

A.K.A.: Scotch Collie, Scottish Sheepdog, Sheepdog, Working Collie, Farmers Dog, The Eye Dog, Heading Dog, Collie, Farm Collie, Shepherd's Dog, Northern British Sheepdog, Scotch Sheepdog, Highland Collie, Lowland Collie, Welsh Sheepdog, Northumbrian Sheepdog, Old Border Collie, English Sheepdog, Working Border Collie, BC

Overview:

The Border Collie is a highly intelligent and energetic herding dog, originating from the Anglo-Scottish border region where they were bred for their exceptional sheep-gathering abilities. Physically, they are medium-sized dogs with an athletic build, typically weighing between 30-55 pounds, and feature a double coat that can be rough or smooth, appearing in a wide variety of colors, though black and white is most common. Their alert, intense gaze is a hallmark of the breed. Temperamentally, Border Collies are renowned for their incredible trainability, eagerness to please, and boundless energy, making them excellent candidates for dog sports like agility and obedience. However, this high drive means they require significant mental and physical stimulation; without proper outlets, they can become bored and destructive. While loyal and affectionate with their families, their herding instincts can sometimes translate to nipping at children or other pets if not managed, making them generally better suited for experienced owners who can dedicate time to their training and exercise needs. They are definitely not suited for apartment living and thrive in homes with large, secure yards and active lifestyles. Health-wise, they are generally robust, but can be prone to certain genetic conditions such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), hip and elbow dysplasia, and Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS).