Border Collies were bred as working dogs, mainly to herd sheep and cattle. They come in a variety of colours and are considered intelligent, energetic and athletic. While black and white is the most commonly color pattern of the Border Collie, the breed appears in just about any color and pattern known to occur in dogs.
Here is a list of interesting facts about one of our favourite breeds:
The Border Collie got its name from the ancient word “Colley” which means faithful or useful.
The Romans were the first people to bring the Border Collie to England to herd the sheep. This is where the wool industry started.
Border Collies should ideally have 2 hours of exercise a day because they are bred to be a working dog.
The Border Collie is considered one of the smartest dog breeds. They are able to solve problems and even learn names of toys.
The Border Collie was specially bred to herd animals and is considered the best herding dog.
Border Collies have appeared in movies and TV shows such as “Mad About You”, “Little House On The Prairie” and “Babe”.
A Border Collie named Striker holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest car window opened by a dog. It took Striker just 11.34 seconds to wind down a car window (non electric) using just his paw and nose.
The father of all Border Collies is Old Hamp who lived from 1893 to 1901. He made herding sheep look so easy which he did quietly and effectively.
Border Collies make excellent search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs as well as medical alert dogs.
The Border Collie was originally bred in the borderlands connecting England and Scotland.