So much more than a dog. (Border Collie)

Member Name: Satan's_Spawn

Product:	Border Collie
Date:	22/09/00 (69 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Loving, faithful and loyal

Disadvantages: none if you and the breed are well suited.

Anyone that has spent time with a border collie will know how intelligent they are. These dogs do not just understand basic commands, but whole sentences.
Unfortunately, their high intellect and limitless energy does mean that they are not a suitable pet for many people. Because of this, there are far too many border collies in rescue centres. These dogs need a lot of your time, if you have a job that will allow you to take a dog to work with you, then there can be no better breed than this. Their memory is incredible and if they are re-introduced to a person or a place, even after 3 or 4 years, they will remember.
If, however, you work all day, and the dog would be spending a lot of time on its own, then this is not the breed for you. When they become bored, either through lack of exercise, or lack of mental stimulation, they can become very destructive.
Willing to please, these dogs are easily trainable and excel at obedience and agility. They do need to be trained properly, because an intelligent dog like this can wreak havoc if it thinks it is top of the pack.
Some people will tell you that border collies spend too much time herding, and can be snappy, with children. These things are true IF the dog is not having the life it needs. Although herding is a natural instinct for them, a contented dog has little time for it, and a dog that is happy with its place in the pack, will be highly tolerant of even the youngest child, and often wish to ‘mother’ babies.
Given enough time, exercise, love and correct handling, these dogs are the most loving, faithful and loyal friends you will ever have.

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