Why choose a Border Collie ?

Border Collies are wonderful and amazing dogs. They are known for their incredible herding instinct and their keen intelligence.  They are healthy dogs, of medium size and don’t require too much grooming. They are playful and energetic but also demanding.
Border Collies are obedient and quickly grasp what is required of them, but this doesn’t mean they are easy to train!
They have mental and physical requirements which may not fit into every family’s lifestyle.

Many people choose a Border Collie because they have seen them on TV, in films, adverts, or in various competitions. But what they don’t see, nor realise, are the hours of training that are necessary to achieve these remarkable results.
They are a living, breathing being with emotional qualities and a unique personality.
Before you make the decision to get a Border Collie, please consider all of the following points carefully.

• Are you ready to make a 12+ year commitment?
  You must be absolutely sure of your choice. Having a dog come into your home is not a decision that you can easily go back on. It will affect your life for years to come and should not be taken lightly.
• Are you willing to put in at least 2 hours each day, in some form of exercise or activity with your Border Collie?
  This doesn’t mean just letting your dog roam around the garden. Border Collies need you to play with them, to walk them, to teach them. Spend time with your Border Collie, bond with it, you’ll both enjoy and benefit from this close relationship.
• Are you prepared to go to dog training classes once (or twice) a week with your dog for several months, whatever the weather conditions?
  Too many Border Collies end up in Rescue centres because owners don’t spend enough time educating them and stop going to classes considering they have learnt all there is to know. Keep going, you’ll be so proud of the result.
• Are you willing to never give up on your dog?
  Educating a Border Collie is fun but requires a lot of patience. Yes, they’re clever but they’re sometimes too clever and will get bored with repetitive instructions. Varying activities will stimulate their interest and you will be rewarded by their eagerness to learn – but be patient!

If you feel you can provide for all their needs, love and care for them with the utmost devotion and attention, then this may be the dog of your dreams!