Dog's Name & Age
[Border Collie] Frankie 8 years
[Groenendael] Belle 6 Years
In a Word, My Border Collie Is…
Perfect!
Best Characteristics of the Breed
Intelligence
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
Smarter than most people
When, Where and How I Got My Border Collie:
Kill Shelter - I wrote her story in "Doggie Talk" but it is long and detailed and I won't cut it down. It is a conversation between out two 'adopted' beauties.
I will send you my CD, "Doggie Tails" that includes her story.
Yours gratis if you would like a copy.
E-mail me at QUILL@yorkshiretales.com
Ronnie
I'd Describe My Dog As…
Listen to the story - it says everything ...
For the record, Frankie has not been trained. She trained me to whistle her whenever I needed her, personable, no health issues, knows her place - at my side except when she is 'working' which is almost all the time.
Little [37 lbs] Frankie has never put a paw wrong, never chewed, always eager to please, and holds a PhD in human psychology, and the chair of Philosophy at the Sorbonne. Alright, that last one is a bit of a stretch, but she could have the chair if she wanted it.
Border Collies are [like Yorkshirefolk] a breed apart. Having a BC in your home is a lifestyle, a vocation, a commitment that cannot be set aside, amended, or abnegated.
As for Groenendaels [Chien de berge belge], they are the most beautiful dog ever bred. They are headstrong, but courageous; independent but totally loyal; and fiercely protective but not warlike unless specially trained for military or police work. They are excellent sniffer dogs, undeterrable when 'on duty,' and so focused that it is almost unbelievable.
Not for the weak-willed [they'll walk all over you], not for those lacking senses of humour [they can be so funny ha-ha], and not for those unprepared to rise from the couch and take these wonderful beasties for long walks, ball chases, and other strenuous outdoor pursuits that characterize these noble dogs.
Advice
- Best advice is if you want a house pet the BC is NOT for you
- BCs are special dogs and need special owners - patient, long-suffering, kind, understanding, and willing to let the breed be what it was bred to be.
- You have to know about BCs before you even THINK about taking one into your life.
- Not a breed for the lazy, BCs will run up to 100 miles a day and need work.
- No better or more loyal or faithful dog exists, but you have to earn its loyalty and love.
- You have been warned!
