1. About.com
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Dogs

Lucky, the Fabulous BC

Share Your Story: Living with a Border Collie

From TexasNative, 

Dog's Name & Age

Lucky, approx 7-8 yrs

In a Word, My Border Collie Is…

FABULOUS!!!

Best Characteristics of the Breed

intelligent, intuitive, loving, active

Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed

need mental and physical activity daily, not always good with small animals

When, Where and How I Got My Border Collie:

We came home one evening to find him sitting in the woods by our home. Hungry, a little dirty & matted, no collar or tags...we searched for his owners, but no one ever came forward. We got the best end of that deal...he has been the best dog ever. He goes everwhere with us, and is the best companion you can imagine for our 12 year old son. He lives indoors with us, but we are an active "outdoorsy" family, so he gets plenty of exercise and variety. We've run out of tricks to teach him- he's learned all we can think of! His only downside is that you have to watch him carefully around small animals-has a high prey drive.

I'd Describe My Dog As…

easy to train, dislikes loud noises/commotion, enjoys a calm household enviroment, needs lots of attention & exercise, indoor dog, not always good w/small animals, likes to herd kids & make sure they mind (like sheep) overall a great pet for an active, gentle owner who will devote plenty of time to their dog. very loyal & affectionate.

Advice

  • needs to be an indoor dog, inside with you whenever you're home- loves & needs to be with their owners. need lots of exercise & mental activity. prefers a stable, calm home enviroment, highly intelligent, should be trained w/positive reinforcement methods, not punitive training techniques. most border collies don't like loud noises. may have a high prey or chase drive- not always good w/small animals. children must be taught how to behave around dogs- border collies tend to want to "herd" kids, especially if the kids are running/acting wild. loves affection & attention. needs frequent brushing- does shed a lot.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved. 

A part of The New York Times Company.