The Border Collie has a muscular body structure, short and strong legs, erect and attentive ears, and fur that comes in multiple colors, three being the most common – black, white, and brown.
The Collie forms strong bonds with its owners swiftly and thrives on their attention. It’s an affectionate and caring breed, though it may not always be inclined to spend the entire day cuddling. Typically, it interacts well with both children and other animals. However, its instinct to herd, often manifesting as an attempt to ‘organize’ others like a flock of sheep, might occasionally be quite bothersome to other animals.
The inherent herding instinct runs deep within them, causing them to constantly seek out moving objects to chase, whether it’s cats, bikes, or cars. This behavior is often accompanied by a series of quite loud barks. Releasing boundless energy requires outdoor activities like walking, running, and daily games in the open air. Ideally, engaging in these activities multiple times a day would be beneficial.
Today, the Border Collie retains its global championship status in all matters related to sheep herding, showcasing its exceptional skills worldwide. However, this dedicated working dog, often referred to as a “workaholic,” has diversified its roles. Beyond herding, the breed is involved in tasks like airport bird control, participation in diverse sports competitions, police duties including explosive detection, and even serving as a therapy dog for various populations. The Border Collie’s excellence isn’t confined to these roles alone – it ranks among the top five most intelligent breeds, consistently securing top positions in various measures assessed through field studies.