Episodes > 107 > Top Dogs/Top Cats

The "Blue Collar Dog"

When I say “blue-collar” I’m not talking about the color of this dog’s collar! This guy is a working class dog!

There’s no laying around on the couch, clicker in one paw, chewey in the other watching a little bit of the “Westminster Dog Show” for these dogs. These dogs are “workaholics” and they have to be doing something at all times or they get anxious. Whether herding, alerting, tracking, playing or participating in dog agility activities, you gotta keep these dogs busy to keep them happy…boredom is their worst enemy! The cure for boredom is curiosity and it’s this that gets them into trouble. If you don’t keep them busy, they will make themselves busy and it most likely won’t be what you had in mind.

If you remember the movie from a few years ago “Babe” you’ll remember that the Border Collies were the smartest members of the farm as well as being affectionate, faithful, loyal and even neighborly. Happily, these traits are more then just Hollywood sugar coating.

Border Collies are known to be energetic, friendly full of energy and extremely intelligent…but intelligence has its price. The very traits that make these dogs so extraordinary are the same ones that make them difficult to live with at times.

Here are a few things to think about…

1. As they are born herders keep them out of the street…because trying to herd an SUV is definitely not a good idea.
2. You may need to keep an eye on them with other pets that aren’t dogs.
3. They can be aggressive with other dogs of the same sex.
4. Not good for people who don’t plan to spend a lot of time with them.
5. Baby Border Collies can be sound sensitive and until they grow up a bit. They might not be the best choice for small children as loud noises could startle them.

Yep, if you’re looking for a dog that thrives on activity and likes to be a part of the family and will work until they drop, the Border Collie is the dog for you…although I hear that they don’t do windows!