Temperament of the Dog

Border Collies are very intelligent and protective of family members as well as well-behaved with people who are familiar to them. However, they are also known to destroy property if they are left idle for long periods of time, and they require a great deal of personal attention. Unfortunately, Border Collies are frequently seen in animal shelters because their owners find that they cannot give them enough attention.

The Border Collie is a 'working dog' and it needs to be challenged. It is more suited to an outdoor environment, and it behaves well with children and cats, but should be monitored if in the presence of other small animals. The Collie behaves well with dogs of the opposite sex, but it tends to be aggressive with dogs of the same sex. Due to its tendency to stare and monitor behavior, the dog is sometimes seen as intimidating people or other animals. Even with proper attention and exercise, a Border collie is an intelligent animal who may act impulsively. For example, the Border Collie has a natural inclination to escape an environment, so care should be taken so that the dog doesn't try to jump over fences or 'bolt' through an opening in the yard.

As a companion animal, the Border Collie shows affection toward people who are familiar, but the dog will be reserved when a stranger is in the home. Border Collies relate to people by demonstrating interest and alertness; the dog will not show fear or apathy. If the dog becomes overtly aggressive, vicious, shy, or reticent, the owner should consider hiring a professional trainer as these behaviors are considered to be serious faults by professional breeders. These dogs require physical and mental exercise on a daily basis. As a result, they are not well suited to an environment that cannot provide this stimulation.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

When a person is considering a Border Collie as a pet, he or she must be aware that these animals require consistent physical, as well as mental attention. The dogs respond well to an outdoor, active lifestyle and to long walks, training classes, or another companion dog. In the event that training classes are required, a personal trainer is recommended due to the level of attention required by a Border Collie. An owner needs to prevent the dog from overexertion during periods of high temperature.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

Historically, Border Collies were kept due to their natural inclination for work and high level of energy. In addition, Border Collies were easy to train due to their above-average level of intelligence. As puppies, they easily socialize with people and other animals. However, when Border Collies are house pets, they maintain the herding instinct. It is not uncommon to see these dogs attempt to herd small animals, family members, and even large vehicles into a specific area of the house or yard. They will try to herd children out of a swimming pool! Therefore, these dogs are not suitable for households with small kids.