Border Collie

The Border Collie is known as the best sheepherder in the world. This talented dog, which hails from Northumberland on the border of Scotland and England, is a mix of Spaniel and early droving breeds. Some sources believe that English sheepdogs like this one have been around since the Romans arrived in Britain. Because of their intelligence, they are used for their skills in detecting bombs and narcotics. They are also very helpful in helping handicapped and blind individuals. With long hair and half-perked ears, the Border Collie can have a smooth or coarse coat, which can come in black, red, black and white, red and white, black and gray, or tricolor. Athletic, quick, and coordinated, these dogs need to stay active at all times. Therefore, they are better with families that live in a home with a yard, rather than an apartment. Energetic owners who love the outdoors are ideal for these dogs. Border Collies are easy to train and enjoy pleasing their families. They love having tasks and work hard at getting them right. Even though they bond closely with their owners, they can be uninterested in others. They are, however, protective and make good guard dogs. These dogs might suffer from deafness, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia.