How to Buy a Border Collie by John Davis

Border Collies are different from nearly all other dogs because they are bred to work livestock. That is what defines them - not just in the past, but still today. It makes them the best herding dog there is, and because livestock work requires such a high degree of intelligence, physical ability and character, it makes them better at most things (including being a good companion) than breeds which are bred for how they look or for "versatility." It follows that if you want an authentic Border Collie, you must get one that was bred for livestock work.

If you want a companion dog who will require a greater than normal investment of time and interest from you, and will give you a greater than normal return on that investment, a Border Collie may be thedog for you. If you want a dog to work livestock, a Border Collie is the obvious choice. If you want a dog just to "be there" and not need much attention, save yourself some grief and pick a different breed or a mixed breed.

Once you've read our overall introduction to the breed, and decided that a Border Collie is the right dogfor you, here are some further concrete tips for getting a genuine, healthy Border Collie.

DON'T BUY FROM PET STORES OR THROUGH INTERNET WEB SITES

No reputable breeder would sell puppies to a pet store, and therefore the only pups for sale in pet storesare those from puppy mills or from others who breed for profit rather than quality. Likewise, you can't judge a puppy seller based on his web site. There are plenty of dishonest and disreputable breeders and brokers who can make themselves look pretty wonderful on their own web sites. It's certainly true that there are many good breeders who have web sites, and you may initially learn about one of them via the web, but if all you know about a seller comes from his or her web site you could be buying from a puppy mill that you would flee from if you saw it in real life. In buying this way, you not only risk getting a dog with health or temperament problems, but you could be contributing to overbreeding and inhumane treatment. Don't support cash crop breeders and puppy mills.

BUYING FROM A GOOD BREEDER

A very good way to get a companion Border Collie -- and the best way to get a Border Collie for livestock work -- is to buy from a good breeder.

It is ultimately the buyer's responsibility to make informed decisions in buying a pup, both for your own benefit and because your buying decisions influence the future of the breed just as much as the breeders do. To help in your decision, however, we suggest you consider the following Red Flags in evaluating any breeder you may consider buying from. Red Flags are just that - they do not necessarily disqualify a breeder from consideration, but they highlight facts and circumstances that may (or do) indicate problems and should make you look hard and ask serious questions. Even good breeders can have one or more minor Red Flags, but they should have few, and should have offsetting positive qualities.

The breeder is not breeding for working ability

Sometimes breeders will acknowledge up front that they are not breeding for working (i.e., herding)

ability. They may say they are breeding for conformation, or for temperament, or for the "perfect pet." Since the whole point of the Border Collie breed is that they are dogs bred for working ability, these breeders should be avoided even by those who never intend to use their dog to herd livestock.

Often, however, breeders will claim they are breeding for working ability even though they're not, because they know people expect that in a Border Collie. How can you tell if the claim is true?

Breeders who don't know enough or care enough to breed for herding excellence may point to titles (letters before or after the dog's name) acquired in dumbed-down AKC or other multi-breed herding trials. These trials are designed as ways to have fun with your dog rather than as true tests of working ability, and because they have to provide fun for many breeds which have little or no herding ability, they are no measure at all of the quality of a real working breed like the Border Collie. Where a Border Collie sire or dam is advertised as having title initials before or after its name, you can be pretty sure that neither the dog nor the breeder is accomplished enough to compete in "real" Open level sheepdog trials. Ironically, therefore, these titles prove the exact opposite of what they are intended to prove. The same is true of "herding instinct certificates," an easy, meaningless credential that no serious breeder of working dogs would bother to get.

Some breeders may point to noted herding dogs several generations back in the pups' pedigree. This toois meaningless in itself - there's scarcely a Border Collie alive who doesn't have great herding dogs several generations back in his pedigree. You should not have to look any further back than the pup's sire and dam to find demonstrated working ability. Finally, be wary of breeders who claim to be breeding for everything - for "versatility," for "the dog that can do it all." This usually means they are breeding for nothing in particular, but want to cast their net for the widest possible range of customers. Versatility and temperament are the natural accompaniments of working ability, not ends in themselves.

Breeders who are truly breeding for working ability will usually be very specific about their dogs' accomplishments. If they place regularly in Open class sheepdog and/or cattledog trials sanctioned by the United States Border Collie Handlers Association (USBCHA), it's almost certain that they have the knowledge and the motivation to breed for good working ability. If they don't trial their dogs at this level, they should be serious livestock producers who test their dogs through demanding work. Such folks will be more than happy to describe their livestock operation, the nature and frequency of the work their dogs do, and details of the strengths and weaknesses of the sire and dam of any litters they've bred.

The breeder registers with the AKC

Registering Border Collies with the AKC is a very serious Red Flag, even if the dogs are registered with a working registry as well. Why? Because the AKC defines dogs by how they look, advocates breeding dogs to conform to an appearance standard, and rewards such "breeding for looks" by sponsoring shows where the dogs who most closely meet its appearance standard can be honored as "champions." This philosophy is directly opposed to the breeding for working ability which created the Border Collie, and which is necessary to preserve the Border Collie. A breeder who supports the AKC by registering there either is ignorant of the harm the AKC's philosophy can do to the Border Collie breed in the long run, or puts his own financial benefit in appealing to the AKC market ahead of the welfare of the breed. A breeder who shows Border Collies in conformation dog shows is doing even more direct harm to the breed. It is ludicrous to claim that a Border Collie's quality is related to its success in dog shows, and entering Border Collies in this type of competition is a tip-off that the persondoing it does not understand the breed.

The breeder does not register with the traditional working Border Collie registries

The ABCA (American Border Collie Association) is the principal Border Collie registry in the United States. The CBCA (Canadian Border Collie Association) is its equivalent in Canada, and the ISDS (International Sheep Dog Society) is its equivalent in the United Kingdom. Other traditional Border Collie registries in the US are NASDS (North American Stock Dog Society) and AIBC (American-International Border Collie registry). It is a serious Red Flag if the breeder registers with any other registry, especially the International Border Collie Association (started in 2006 by a high-volume breeder suspended from the ABCA) or one of the all-breed registries generally associated with puppy mills, such as the Continental Kennel Club (CKC), Federation of International Canines (FIC), America's Pet Registry (APR), etc., which basically exist only so that a breeder can claim his pups are "have papers."

The breeder emphasizes the color of the dogs

Good Border Collies can come in many different colors, but purposely breeding for unusual colors doesnot produce good Border Collies. It is a particularly destructive form of breeding for looks. It's almost adefining characteristic of bad breeders, because it is easy to do (breeding unusual colors is simple compared to breeding working ability), and because the unsophisticated buyer can be told that the dogs are worth more because they're "rare." In fact, these dogs are never considered more desirable by knowledgeable Border Collie breeders (that's one of the reasons they're rare!), and some of them come with increased risk of health problems. Therefore, breeders who produce disproportionate numbers of merle or candy-colored dogs, or who advertise "carries blue," "carries the dilution gene," "can produce both red and blue merle," and the like should be avoided.

The breeder is reluctant to disclose her name and/or address, and unwilling to have you visit her kennel

The breeder has been disciplined by a registry

The ABCA publishes a list of breeders who have been suspended or expelled from membership, and the reason for the disciplinary action, at www.abcbordercollies.com.

The breeder produces numerous litters and always has puppies available

Good breeders do not tend to produce a lot of litters, because their dogs are more than breeding machines, and because it takes a lot of time and attention to raise pups properly during their first few weeks of life. Bad breeders, on the other hand, like to keep a full inventory.

The breeder routinely brokers pups for others, or advertises litters from parents other than listed sires and dams

The breeder advertises "accepts PayPal," "ships anywhere," "Christmas specials," "veterans' discounts,"or otherwise has the earmarks of a commercial operation

The pups are being sold to strangers at horse shows, fairs, or similar public events

The breeder asks if you'd like to sell puppies for him

Run, don't walk, the other way.

The breeder does not eye test his breeding stock or pups

One of the genetic diseases that can occur in Border Collies is Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA). It's a disorder of the retina, which can range in severity from no discernible visual deficit to total blindness. It is evident in the dog at an early age, and a pup who is examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist before the age of 12 weeks and is found free of CEA will never develop it. A dog found free of the disease could still be a carrier of the CEA gene, however, and if bred to another carrier will likely produce some pups who have the disease. Fortunately, a DNA blood test for CEA, which can not only tell if a dog has the disease but also if he is a carrier of the gene, has been available since January 2005.

Good breeders will be aware of CEA, and should be willing to discuss with you their approach for dealing with it in their breeding program. They should either (a) show puppy buyers DNA test results establishing that at least one parent of the litter in question is free of the CEA gene; or (b) have had the litter examined for CEA by a canine ophthalmologist before the pups are sent to their new homes, and share the results of that exam with puppy buyers; or (c) agree in writing that the buyer may have the pup promptly examined for CEA and that the pup may be returned for a full refund if CEA is found. The first approach is the most satisfactory, and the last approach is the least satisfactory, but the most important thing is that the breeder is open and knowledgeable in discussing this issue with you. Just saying "I've never had any eye problems" is a Red Flag.

The breeder does not hip test his breeding stock

Hip dysplasia (HD) occurs in Border Collies, and is in some degree hereditable, so a good breeder should be concerned about it. But HD is not nearly as straightforward as simple recessive diseases like CEA. First of all, it is almost certainly polygenic--caused by several genes acting in combination--and none of those genes has so far been identified. Second, environmental factors--such as overfeeding leading to too-rapid growth in puppyhood--can influence whether it develops or not and how severe it becomes. And finally, the means available to keep from producing pups which will become dysplastic are limited in their effectiveness. The best method available is to x-ray the hips of sires and dams (and other relatives where possible), submit the x-rays for evaluation by OFA, PennHIP or Cornell University, and not breed those who are found to be dysplastic. Unfortunately, the correlation between HD in parents and HD in their offspring is far from perfect. Two parents whose hips are rated "Good" or "Excellent" based on their x-rays can still produce a pup who is dysplastic, so x-raying sires and dams can only reduce the chances of their pups having HD, not eliminate those chances. Moreover, there is also an imperfect correlation between x-rays and symptoms - dogs who are evaluated as dysplastic on x-ray may never show any symptoms of lameness. In view of all this, conscientious breeders can differ about whether dogs who are evaluated as dysplastic on x-ray but have no symptomsof HD should be removed from breeding, or whether that should just be one factor to be taken into account in making a breeding decision. However, if you want to minimize as much as possible the risk that your pup might develop hip dysplasia, you should ask the breeder for evidence that both parents were x-rayed and found free of HD, as well as asking whether they have ever produced dysplastic pups.

For more extensive information about hip dysplasia in Border Collies, go to http://stilhope.com/writings/hips.html. You can learn more about the hereditary diseases found in Border Collies by reading the ABCA's article on Health and Genetics of Border Collies.

The breeder does not offer to take the pup back should you be unhappy with it

The breeder shows no interest in your suitability as an owner

ADOPTING FROM A RESCUE ORGANIZATION

There are a number of rescue organizations which evaluate, re-train and re-home abandoned or unwanted Border Collies. Wonderful dogs or pups are often available through these organizations. Particularly if you are looking for a companion dog, rescue may have the dog for you. If you go this route, you will have a network of people with border collie experience and expertise to call on for advice, and you will be helping out a dog who really needs a home. To find rescue dogs and pups, go towww.petfinder.com.

DON'T ACT ON IMPULSE

Getting a dog is an important decision - take time to do it right. Maybe the best thing you could do is togo to a sheepdog trial. Look at the list of USBCHA sanctioned trials and see if there is one near you. If you've never seen a trial, you will be entertained and amazed, and will learn a lot about what these dogsare all about. At a trial, you can generally talk to the handlers (as long as you don't approach them right before they're scheduled to run) and ask questions about where to get a good pup. In this way you can learn which breeders are respected by knowledgeable Border Collie people, and perhaps get to know a breeder from whom you can not only get a good dog, but also learn a lot about this unique and wonderful breed.

Border Collie Characteristics

Introducing the Shepherd's Dog

The Industrial Revolution created urban markets for lamb, mutton, and wool; but how could the vast hills of unfenced land in the Borders of Scotland and northern England be put to raising sheep? Hardworking sheepdogs were the key, helping shepherds turn this inhospitable land into sheep-raising country. Our modern sheep-herding collie was improved in the nineteenth century, and the genetic refinement of its working skills occupies thoughtful livestock producers on several continents to this day. Breeders try to balance a dozen heritable working traits to produce the best dog for their purposes, factoring in climate, terrain, livestock type, and the kind of dog they get along with. Guided by a skilledtrainer, a talented dog develops remarkable mastery over livestock. The true Border Collie is known by how it works sheep and cattle, and by no other standard.

Herding Characteristics

Because their early work was to gather sheep from the hills, Border Collies are, by nature, gatherers rather than drovers or tenders. They can, nevertheless, be taught to drive stock away from the shepherd and even to keep their charges within certain boundaries. They are also sensitive to commands from their handlers and can distinguish slight variations in the many whistles they understand, responding appropriately to each tone.

Shepherds look for exceptional athletic ability, a biddable nature, and superior livestock sense. In general, a dog that is light on its feet, flowing in its movement, quick to cover its stock, and has great

endurance is the most valued. The dog's temperament must be sensitive enough to bend its will when asked, tough enough to stand up to the pressures of training, eager to learn, with enough confidence anddetermination to carry on with its work without constant guidance. Some Border Collies are reserved rather than outgoing, but they must love to work with and for the master. While innate livestock sense is bred into all good working collies, their working style can vary. Most people admire a dog that workswith its head low to the ground, with its hindquarters high and its tail tucked between its hind legs. They can run as fast as the wind, yet stop in an instant or switch directions without stopping. They don'ttake their eyes off their sheep. Their intense gaze is focused on the stock, willing them to obey, to go where the dog directs them, to stop if the dog blocks their path. The stock aren't rushed or afraid, but they certainly respect the dog. A good Border Collie's obsession is its livestock, and this is as it should be.

Sheepdog trials have a very practical purpose of proving the worth of the most desirable Border Collie studs and dams. Each year, there is one, and only one, Border Collie champion: the dog or bitch that wins the National Handlers Finals sheepdog trial sponsored jointly by the United States Border Collie Handlers Association and the American Border Collie Association registry.

The Breeding Behind a Good Border Collie

How did Border Collies get to be such smart and useful livestock dogs? During the nineteenth century, forward-looking shepherds felt that the faithful farm collie could be made more useful with the additionof traits from other types of dog: the "eye" of a staunch setter, the speed and silent nature of a racing hound. No dog has all the herding traits in perfect proportion, and the intricate assemblage is easy to lose. Breeding a good Border Collie is not easy. It takes great experience with dogs and herding requirements, and a bit of luck in addition.

Soundness

In the days when dogs that were unfit to work could not be kept, most dogs with physical problems were put down. As Border Collies became more popular with farmers around the world, hobby trials competitors, and pet and dog-sport owners, some latent problems began to surface. The International Sheep Dog Society and the American Border Collie Association have programs that are reducing the incidence of inherited eye diseases. All dogs should be tested by a canine ophthalmologist, preferably between 6 and 12 weeks of age. Dogs having or producing pups which have genetic eye abnormalities should not be bred. There is some hip dysplasia, and conscientious breeders have radiologists certify that breeding dogs are clear of hip dysplasia. The American Border Collie Association will record this information, as well as eye certification, on pedigrees. Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) occasionally causes shoulder lameness, and some researchers feel there is a genetic component. Epilepsy, which can have a genetic basis, occurs occasionally. Obviously, affected dogs should not be bred.

Appearance

While a group of one hundred Border Collies will probably look as if they belong to the same breed, they will not have a uniform appearance. Since a "good" dog can be judged only by its herding performance, there is no "breed standard" of appearance to which Border Collies should conform. In general, they are of medium size (25-55 pounds), with coats that may be smooth, medium, or rough. Colors are black, black with tan, and, less common, reddish-brown, all usually with white markings. Predominantly white Border Collies and merles, though unusual, also occasionally appear.

Border Collie Registries

The original registry for working sheepdogs is the International Sheep Dog Society in Great Britain. In 1946 two words, "Border Collie," were added to the pedigree to ensure that the dogs were not confusedwith the British Kennel Club's Collie. In North America, the principal registry for working dogs is the American Border Collie Association, Inc, 82 Rogers Road, Perkinston, MS 39573. The only registry of Canadian Border Collies is the Canadian Border Collie Association, Kelly Knowlton, Secretary, 1687 8th Concession Rd, W, Cambridge, ON, N1R 5S2, Canada. The United States Border Collie Club, Inc.,supports these registries for their efforts to preserve and promote the working Border Collie.

Despite strong opposition from all people who value the genetic heritage of the breed, both the Kennel Club in Great Britain and the American Kennel Club have taken up the registration of Border Collies. They have imposed written physical standards as breeding guidelines and award titles for conformationin dog shows. In Australia, New Zealand, and Britain, where a strain of Border Collies has been bred for dog shows for twenty years or more, those dogs have a predictable physical type, but their ability toherd livestock has been severely compromised.

The United States Border Collie Club, Inc., opposes registering Border Collies with organizations, suchas the American Kennel Club, which offer conformation classes for Border Collies. Since its formation in 1975, a primary purpose of the USBCC has been to protect working Border Collies from misguided efforts to create a breed based on physical characteristics instead of on skill in herding livestock.

Border Collies for Sports and as Pets

Because they are highly motivated to work in partnership with their owners, Border Collies are well suited to most canine sports. To compete in their performance events such as Obedience and Tracking tests without registering with the AKC, a Border Collie owner must neuter the dog and apply for an Indefinite Listing Privilege.

Many Border Collies and their owners enjoy the fast-growing sport of Agility, as it enhances the relationship between dog and handler and develops a confident, bold, and motivated dog. The best Agility is found in meets sanctioned by the United States Dog Agility Association, Inc., P. O. Box 850955, Richardson, TX 75085-0955. Some Border Collies excel in Fly Ball and Frisbee competitions. In northern climates, Border Collie sled-dog teams are competitive in middle-distance races.

As pets, Border Collies have a mixed record. While some people have no difficulty controlling the dogs' herding instinct, high energy and quick minds, less-skilled owners may be frustrated by these traits. The calm, well-behaved dogs seen at sheepdog trials are the result of careful attention to the dogs' mental and physical needs. Border Collies that herd are fulfilled. In pet environments, with experienced dog people who give them the structure, love, and fellowship they crave, they can be superb pets. With less-skilled owners, unfortunately, they can become a neurotic nuisance. An honest appraisal of your lifestyle, skills and needs before getting a Border Collie can save you from heartache. It is very hard to find a farm home or a new pet home for a Border Collie which has developed bad habits, and every year many Border Collies are destroyed because they proved to be too much dog for their owners.

Care

Yes, Border Collies shed. Rough-coated dogs develop thick undercoats in winter which must be

combed out at the onset of summer's heat. Teeth must be cleaned and toenails clipped. A veterinarian will recommend a program of vaccinations and medications. Be aware that heat exhaustion is a killer. Border Collies often lie in shade or cool water after a hot run or hard work. Even so, their obsessive natures do lead to unnecessary deaths from hyperthermia. Be warned, also, that allowing them to roam free inevitably leads to trouble, as the herding instinct can be activated by anything that moves. Border Collies' attraction to motion should be confined to safe outlets, as most chronic car-chasing is eventually fatal. Inappropriate herding should be stopped immediately by saying no and meaning it. The USBCC recommends spaying or neutering pet dogs for the owners' comfort and for the sake of thebreed's working instincts.

Dogs are a commitment. Before you acquire a Border Collie puppy, be sure you want to spend two years training and thirteen more enjoying a highly energetic dog that anticipates your every move, shares your every joy, comforts all your sorrows, and beats you in every race.

Puppies

If you need a livestock dog, it is imperative to find a puppy whose parents work to a high standard. They should have a livestock dog temperament suited to your handling skills. If your interest in a Border Collie pet has survived our warnings, be prepared to answer questions about your dog-owning experience and your plans for raising a Border Collie puppy. Responsible breeders will be very careful about where their puppies go. Visit the breeder and spend time with the adult dogs. Temperaments vary from shy to bold, calm to excitable, although all will turn serious when they work livestock. For whichever purpose you acquire a puppy, take care to establish your authority and control as a kind, benevolent master. A Border Collie's personality can be ruined by harsh treatment, neglect, or letting it assume a dominant role in the household. People who own Border Collies like their intelligence, high energy, and their desire to participate in every phase of human activity. However, they do take time, patience, and dog-handling skills to develop into either a working dog or a fine companion dog. A well-trained Border Collie is a pleasure to live with and will be reliably well behaved anywhere.

Rescue

A number of individuals and organizations around the country are dedicated to rescuing Border Collies who are abandoned or unwanted, furnishing them with basic training and health care, and finding new homes for them. If you have decided to get a Border Collie, why not consider giving a new home to one of these dogs? Most Border Collie rescue organizations list their dogs on www.petfinder.com.

The United States Border Collie Club, Inc.

The USBCC is the oldest Border Collie breed club in North America. Founded to protect the Border Collie's unique genetic heritage, protecting the Border Collie remains the club's task today. It took five hundred years of single-minded breeding to produce the Border Collie. In the latter part of the twentieth century it took only a couple of decades for dog-show fanciers in several sheep-raising countries to reduce their selected strain to just another pretty pet.

The USBCC neither registers dogs nor runs sheepdog trials. Our membership consists of working farmers, pet owners, and sheepdog, agility, and obedience trial competitors who share information and experiences through a quarterly newsletter. The USBCC presents the traditional working Border Collie to the dog world, the media, and anyone who might affect its future.

Living With Border Collies

USBCC, Inc. This pamphlet may be copied and distributed only in its entirety, for personal, non-commercial use.For excerpt permission contact the USBCC at info@bordercollie.org

In loving memory of Val Maurers Moss One in a Lifetime

For centuries, the Border Collie has toiled tirelessly in his service to us. As the premier herding dog in the world, he has gathered large flocks from great distances and found lost stock in the worst of weather. But more than a herding dog, he has been a war dog, a sled dog, a therapy and assistance dog, a competitive sports dog, a search and rescue dog, a hunting dog and, always, a companion dog. Whatever we have asked the Border Collie to do, he has done. He has never wavered, never faltered, never quit, and never said no to his human partner. It is only fair that we return the favor.

Living with Border Collies was developed in an effort to ensure that people who decide to live with these wonderful dogs understand them and their unique qualities, so that all Border Collies will have homes where they are loved and appreciated. Val Maurer, founder and director of BCRO (Border CollieRescue Organization), researched, wrote and re-wrote this pamphlet over many years, drawing on her own experience and that of rescuers with whom she worked. The United States Border Collie Club is grateful for the opportunity to distribute this pamphlet. We do so in large part through funds raised by Val and donated by her many friends and colleagues as a memorial to her good dog Moss.

The United States Border Collie Club, Inc. (USBCC) is dedicated to preserving the Border Collie as a working stock dog; opposing the showing, judging, and breeding of Border Collies based upon their appearance; promoting only careful breeding for the preservation of working ability and the avoidance of genetic defects; and helping Border Collie owners and the public generally to better understand and appreciate the traditional Border Collie, bred for work.Description of the Border Collie

Border Collies should be selectively bred for intelligence and working ability. To herd sheep on the mountains and moorlands of the British Isles, a Border Collie needs to meet certain criteria. He has to be independent enough to make his own decisions when he is at a distance from the shepherd. He must control his predatory instincts so he protects the sheep instead of killing them for food---as a wolf must do for survival. He also needs to nip or grip, at times, to control and move his sheep. He needs the stamina to work in heat or cold, to dart up and down steep hills, and to ignore minor injuries in the course of a workday. He also must be bred with a desire to work with, and subordinate to, his human companion, regardless of whether he is at a great distance or striving to save a newborn lamb.

A Border Collie can be anywhere from 25 pounds to 65 pounds. The coat can be rough (long coat), semi-rough, or smooth (short-haired). The coat colors vary. The typical colors are black & white, but Border Collies are also red & white, tri-colored (brown, black & white), liver, blue merle, red merle, yellow, or white with small amounts of brown, black, or red. Freckling on the muzzle and legs is common. The eye colors range from amber to dark brown and sometimes blue. The ear carriage can be pricked, semi-erect, dropped, or a combination. The bone structure ranges from lightweight and graceful to heavy-boned and majestic. In herding, Border Collies circle and stalk the object of interest.

The herding pose is head and forelegs lowered, eyes intense, tail down with bottom third of tail upturned. They can become focused on any moving object, even tiny insects. It is the attitude toward life and work, not looks, that distinguishes a dog as being a Border Collie.

Work is an attitude, not necessarily a specific task. Obedience competitions, agility contests, Frisbee events, flyball, visits to nursing homes, throwing a tennis ball in the backyard all can be considered work by your Border Collie. Observe the dog; if his body position is in a working pose, then he considers that particular task to be work. Add Sits, Downs, Waits, and That'll do's into the routine as added mental stimulation. Unlike some breeds, Border Collies love to learn new things throughout theirlives. When it comes to Border Collies, you can teach an old dog new tricks! However, there is a downside to this attitude. Never teach a Border Collie something you don't want to live with for the restof his life. That "cute" puppy trick can be extremely irritating or even dangerous when your darling little puppy becomes a workaholic 50 pound adult.Read All About It

KEY DOGS OF THE BORDER COLLIE FAMILY by Sheila GrewTHE VERSATILE BORDER COLLIE by Janet E. LarsonTHE WORKING BORDER COLLIE by Marjorie Quarton & Carole PresbergSelecting A Border Collie

If youve never lived with a Border Collie, consider fostering a dog for a local rescuer. You can save a Border Collies life while deciding if the breeds mental and physical requirements fit into your familys lifestyle. Older pups and adult dogs will bond with a new family. Dogs know when theyve been saved and most develop a deep desire to work with the new people in their lives.

Around seven weeks old, puppies need to make a general attachment to humans as a species, not a specific attachment to a particular human. A young pup raised around small children is not a guarantee the pup will grow up being good around children. Nature is as important as nurture in determining if anindividual Border Collie adores children, is intimidated by children, or tries to control children.

Some Border Collies will use submissive behavior to manipulate and control us. Others will bark and carry on like they're having a temper tantrum. Still others will use every expression and gesture you have ever found cute to get their own way. Living with a young Border Collie is like living with an intelligent toddler. It requires dedicated time and effort to survive the experience!

A puppy goes through many stages until the adult age of 2 to 3 years. At age 5 to 6 months, the pup gets his adult teeth. This is a major chewing and destructive period. This is the time when the pup also experiments with guarding and confrontational behaviors. It is similar to a child's "terrible twos."Read All About It

THE DOG'S MIND by Bruce FogleHealth Problems

Border Collies are basically a hardy breed; however, they can be subject to some inherited diseases such as collie eye anomaly (CEA), canine hip dysplasia, and deafness. Some could have epilepsy and endocrine diseases, with unknown inheritance factor. Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) can cause lameness in joints, particularly the shoulders, that can develop between the ages of 4 to 12 months. Allergies and skin conditions also occur.

Keep handy a first-aid kit and your vet's phone number. Because Border Collies are very physically active, they are prone to athletic injuries, such as pulled muscles, cruciate ligament ruptures, cuts and punctures, ripped toenails and footpads. The dog also requires vaccinations, heartworm test and preventative, license, spay/neuter, and premium dog food (a combination of high quality dry andmoist foods is best).Read All About It

DOG OWNER'S HOME VETERINARY HANDBOOK by Carlson and GiffinTHE HEALING TOUCH by Michael FoxPuppy Checklist

Do you have the time for a long, sometimes hectic, puppy stage? If not, consider adopting an adult Border Collie.Can you understand the pup's pedigree and its significance? If not, find a local person who knows Border Collie breeding to advise you.Can the breeder show you certification that the parents are free of hip dysplasia and that the pup is free of Collie Eye Anomaly?Did you ask why these parents were selected for breeding?Did the breeder ask about your reason for wanting a Border Collie?Does the breeder seem to care, or are the pups strictly a business?Are the pups at least 6 to 8 weeks old? Have they been de-wormed? Is their den clean?Are the parents well-behaved and reasonably friendly toward your family?Have the pups been raised in an expanding environment, with both indoor and outdoor living and socializing with people and other animals?

Pups are generally priced from $400-$800. Good puppies are expensive to breed and raise and should be priced accordingly. However, high price is not a guarantee of a good dog, and health problems can occur in any breeding program, no matter how careful and knowledgeable the breeder is. Your purchasedecides which breeders and rescuers prosper. Your purchase can help or hinder cash crop breeders and puppy mills. Your purchase decision is vital for the future of this breed. Choose your breeder with care, and never buy from pet shops.Border Collies and Children

Herding the neighborhood kids and giving an occasional light nip to a rear end or ankle might seem like a funny game in the beginning. But what happens when the children want to go one way and you've inadvertently trained your Border Collie to treat them as livestock? The game is now serious business, with scared children and a dog euthanized for aggressive behavior. Dont let this happen! Every time the pup or dog thinks about herding kids, have the kids stop playing with the dog for a few minutes, then go back to the same game in the same area of the yard, with a few new rules. Dogs and kids can have a terrific relationshipwhen an adult or the kids control the games.

Border collies are great at Frisbee and ball sports, and kids enjoy having their dog join in the fun. But first, to teach the Border Collie who's in charge, have the children help with obedience lessons or taking the dog for a controlled, heeling-type walk. Once the Border Collie learns to heel, even small children can take the dog for a walk if the child uses an 18" leash while an adult chaperones the lesson with a 6' leash clipped to the dog's collar. Train a Border Collie to listen to children by praising him when he responds and assisting the children when he doesn't. Teach children to treat dogs with respect. Kids can use a stuffed dog for practice sessions.Crate-Training

Crating a puppy or a recently adopted adult when he's unsupervised is a safety issue. Confining a Border Collie puppy to a bathroom or kitchen is both undesirable and dangerous. These pups can tear up linoleum floors, chew and dig through walls, open drawers and cabinets. Crates can be bad if they are too small or if the pup is confined too long. Crating a pup for nine hours during the day is abuse. If someone cannot let the puppy out every 2 to 3 hours for exercise and interaction, adopt an older pup or adult dog.

A crate is a haven when life gets to be too much. A crate is a haven for the dog when children get too rough with him. A crate is also a haven for us when we need time away from a dogs antics!

The advantages of crate-training include:

When traveling with your dog: motels that allow dogs have crate requirements. Dog events, especially training clinics, are tiring---he'll need some rest. Introducing a dog to a crate for the first time while he is ill or recuperating from surgery adds undue stress. Crate the dog when other people will be in his home for repair work or cleaning.

With a pup, a small plastic crate can easily be moved around the house. Toss treats and toys into the crate and, at first, shut the door for only a few minutes. Use it to teach the pup a daily routine. The cratecan be moved from beside a chair to beside a bed, to the kitchen, or to the dining room. The pup will bein and out of the crate in these different places, learning his daily routine. Caution: if the crate is used only when you leave, the pup may develop a dislike for the crate and develop a separation anxiety. Don't make a fuss about leaving or returning. A radio or TV can be left on to help him cope with being alone.Read All About It

CHILD-PROOFING YOUR DOG by Brian KilcommonsDOG TRAINING FOR CHILDREN by Ian DunbarEVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY by Ian Dunbar

Recommendations for House Training

After the puppy has been confined in a crate 2 to 3 hours (4 to 6 hours for adults):

In a quiet, up-beat manner, take him on leash to the bathrooming area. Choose a bathrooming phrase you are comfortable with, such as Go potty or Hurry up, and say the phrase a few times. Keep this as low-key as possible. If the dog cant run around to investigate interesting smells, hell go to the bathroom out of sheer boredom. If the dog does his business within a maximum of 5 minutes, say, Good (bathrooming phrase), then play fetch, give him a treat, or let him romp around in his yard. If he doesnt go, take him back to the crate for another half hour (young pup) or an hour (older pupor adult dog), then try again.

Take a few days to concentrate on housetraining. Learn the dog's bathrooming habits. Some dogs are more comfortable with shrubs or fencing to protect their privacy. Other dogs need to urinate twice each time they bathroom. A few dogs teach their owners to take long, frequent strolls around the yard or neighborhood; use the 5 minute system to prevent this.

Your Border Collie will quickly learn that the fun part of his day doesn't begin until after he's been a "good" dog outside. Rubbing a Border Collie's nose in an "accident," smacking him on the rear end, or yelling at him increases housetraining problems.

Females sometimes won't relieve themselves in new territory for about 24 hours; a bathroom command can come in handy here. Intact males mark everywhere, including inside buildings, for the first hour in new territory.Walking a Border Collie

Many Border Collies want to forge (pull the handler forward) while on-leash. To eliminate this problem, start by holding a treat or toy in front of the dog's nose (dog is on a buckle collar and 6' leash, in 'heel' position) while taking a quick walk in the home. Praise and intermittent rewards will teach the dog to stay in heel position. Outdoors, to keep the dog's attention on staying in heel position use a combination of luring with treats or toys plus changing directions without saying anything to warn of the changes. Every time a Border Collie forges, change direction or pace. The surprise element keeps a Border Collie's attention on the handler.

Promise collars are beneficial as a temporary training tool for dealing with specific problems, such as a Border Collie so distracted by the world that he forgets his handler. Use of this collar as a basic trainingcollar for all lessons may cause anxiety and dependency issues for Border Collies, however.

Most Border Collies learn easily and happily. Some may require the temporary training use of a light (not medium or heavy) pinch collar. Children and disabled adults are safer when a Border Collie wears a pinch collar---less chance of the dog pulling them off-balance. Do not use a pinch collar on Border Collies younger than 8 months without a behaviorist's supervision. The training application is similar tothe way an adult dog will use his teeth on a puppys neck to guide and instruct the puppy. Beginners should seek the advice of a trainer to learn the correct techniques in fitting and using pinch collars.Read All About It

DOG LOGIC, COMPANION OBEDIENCE by Joel McMains

Training Tips

Tone of voice is extremely important. To speed up a Border Collie, pitch the voice high and quick. Lower the pitch and drag out the words to slow him down. For corrections, lower the voice even more and say the words in a growly tone. Most of the time, talk to a Border Collie in a conversational tone. Whisper to a Border Collie to improve his attention.

To bring a Border Collie toward you, move away from him. To push him away, move toward him. Taketwo steps backwards and hunker down to pull a Border Collie all the way to you. Let your emotions show through your eyes to your Border Collie's eyes. To show disappointment, look at your Border Collie and then deliberately look away. If the Border Collie isn't paying attention, throw up your hands and walk away. He'll usually come up to you and ask for another chance. Give him that chance by calmly taking him through the same situation, this time using a leash and treats as guidance. Set him upto succeed.

Border Collies like a chance to think about new things in relative quiet. Use an hour of "Peace & Quiet" after lessons for any Border Collie, either rescued or raised in one home from a pup. This resultsin quicker and steadier learning.

Tie your dog's 6' leash to your belt while teaching him his daily chore routines. Whether his chores include picking up laundry scattered around the house or keeping you company while you're caring for the livestock, learning the routine while "attached" to you is the easiest way to teach him the pattern of your lifestyle.

Training stick: Use 5' length, 3/4" diameter PVC pipe, capped on one end. Pour in 1/8 cup of BBs and cap the other end. This stick is effective for herding, breaking up dog fights, eliminating foodguarding. A sharp tap on the ground in front of the dog's legs startles him without scaring him. A tap on the ground near his shoulder will move him away if he's herding too close to livestock or other dogs. To refocus the dog on listening and working with you, lay the stick on the ground next to you and give hima quiet word of encouragement. He should respect the correction and startlement effect of the training stick, not fear it.

Hunker down---bend at the knees, keep the torso straight. Use a hunker down when a pup or dog is in anew environment or around dogs enduring stress. Only bend or crouch (torso towards the dog) around relaxed and socialized dogs.

Basic Border Collie Manners

Name recognition: Say the dog's name, then give him a treat. Keep repeating as often as it takes for the dog to start turning his head whenever he hears his name.

Recall: Use the leash in the house, a longline outside. Say the dog's name to get his attention, then an upbeat "Here!" If he doesn't turn around immediately, give a light tug on the line. When the dog comes,give praise, a treat, and a hug. Make recalls the best thing in your dog's life. If the dog is hesitant, take afew steps backward after calling him and hunker down.

Praise: Ask the dog to do something, like a Sit. When he's sat, tell him "Good Sit." The use of praise with the request gives the dog a chance to learn faster. Give him praise for figuring out on his own whathe should do. If we remember to praise him for thinking, we help him to be a mannerly dog on his own and not just a robot. Quietly praise during the correct action.

Correction: To stop an action, give a "No!" or an "Ah-Ah!" noise in a growly tone. This corrective growl is useless if it isn't immediately followed by a lesson and praise for the proper action.

Jumping: Teach the dog to sit for attention. If the dog already has a habit of jumping on people, say "Off!" and quickly turn away from the dog. Do not push the dog away with your hands; touching rewards him for jumping. Withdraw your attention from the dog until he Sits. To reinforce the Sit, hunker down to the dog's level; he'll be calmer when he's close to your face. A "Hug!" can later be added, if the dog is to be allowed to jump in certain circumstances.

Barking: Respect your dog by investigating why he is barking. If its something he shouldnt be barking at, just walk away from him in a disappointed manner, muttering about how stupid he is (Border Collies hate being called stupid). If he barks appropriately, praise him. Allow your dog to bark 2 or 3 times before saying Enough! and give him a treat. Its hard to bark and swallow at the same

time. The result is a trustworthy watchdog.

Naptime: Give yourself and your Border Collie a break now and then. Say Go to bed and throw a treat into the crate (kennel) or dog-proofed room. Teach him with short sessions at first until the dog learns he isnt being permanently abandoned.

Sit, Down & Stay: Raise a treat slowly over the dog's nose and say "Sit." The rump should go down as the nose comes up. After the dog knows Sit, slowly tap a treat along the floor in front of the dog's nose as you're dragging out the word "Down." After the dog knows Down, put a treat a few inches in front ofhis nose, say "Stay" and hold him in place by his collar. When he relaxes into the Stay reward him by bringing the treat to him.

Release: Whatever the dog has, you have something better. If he has a toy in his mouth, take a treat over to him, hold it in front of his nose, and say "Release!" as you offer him the treat.

That'll do!: Every time a job is finished, say "That'll do." This will teach the Border Collie to quit and come to you. To prevent him from ignoring a "That'll do," use intermittent reinforcement techniques (see page 14). For example: he's been catching Frisbees. Withdraw the Frisbee, give a "That'll do," walk a short distance with your dog and wait until he is calm and attentive. Tell him "Ball!" and toss a tennis ball for him a few times. The surprise of one job ending with the possibility of another job beginning makes a reliable "That'll do." Use a "That'll do" with all his activities, be it obedience, herding or tennis balls. He will respond better to "That'll do" than a Recall or a Down when he is overlyexcited about something, if you've been consistent.

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BEGINNING FAMILY DOG TRAINING by Patricia McConnell

Socialization

Socializing your new Border Collie is very important. Teach your dog how you want him to greet people. A simple Sit-Stay until guests are ready to play with your dog will impress your friends and family with your dogs manners and your training ability. Take him out and about in the world. Let him play with healthy, vaccinated dogs. After hes learned his basic manners in a quiet environment, slowly increase his manners practice sessions in more demanding environments.

Border Collie Personalities

A bold personality will need a reason for doing anything. He will always be testing the boundaries youve set. He will be the quickest to protest if you withhold work for some reason. He can also be the dog you depend on most, if youve earned his respect and trust.

A timid personality will need lots of encouragement. Give a timid dog at least three days to adjust to new situations and training. Dont give up on socializing this type of dog, but always start new training in a quiet environment. Gradually work up to loud, stressful situations. This Border Collie will be your emotional support when youve had a bad day.

A melancholy personality can be either frustrating or amusing. This dog will quit and lie down in a

corner if things dont go his way. Just ignore him for awhileeven these pouters are workers and will come around. Combine training with rewards of his favorite activities.

An upbeat personality takes life as it comes and makes the best of it. He watches everything. You wontrealize the dog is learning until he amazes you with his new skills. Hes a stable, versatile dog. Hell doeverything asked of him; be careful not to overwhelm him.

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EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE by Daniel GolemanDOG LOGIC, COMPANION OBEDIENCE by Joel McMainsCAUTIOUS CANINE by Patricia McConnellPLAYTRAINING YOUR DOG by Patricia Gail BurnhamHOW TO TEACH A NEW DOG OLD TRICKS by Ian Dunbar

Border Collie Traits

If your Border Collie is already nipping at peoples heels or hands, say Ouch! in a growling tone of voice and totally withdraw your attention from the dog for 5 minutes. Then go back to playing the samegame with the dog. Keep doing this until the dog understands its the hard biting that stops playtime. Teach him how to have a soft mouth.

Border Collies have play growls and real growls. Play growls normally occur while the dog is shaking a floppy toy or playing tug-of-war. It's impossible to reliably prevent small children from initiating tug games with dogs. It is safer to teach dogs the concept of tug-of-peace. It involves a "Release," a "Get it," and withdrawal of attention if the dog gets grabby or excited. Also, let the dog win a game of tug when he's had a confidence-shattering day.

It's easy to unintentionally teach a Border Collie to be possessive of food or toys. The puppy gives a bark or growl, so you back off in surprise. This reaction rewards the pup. To prevent this, play a game centered around whatever he has, you have something better. When your pup has a toy, show him you have a fantastic treat, ask him to "Drop it." When he does, give him the treat. If he guards his food bowl, blithely walk by his bowl and drop in some terrific treats. He'll want people to walk around his bowl and take his toys or bones.Read All About It

DOG PROBLEMS by Carol Lea BenjaminDOGS LOVE TO PLEASE . . .WE TEACH THEM HOW! by September MornBEHAVIOR PROBLEMS IN DOGS by William CampbellDOGS ARE FROM NEPTUNE by Jean DonaldsonON TALKING TERMS WITH DOGS: CALMING SIGNALS by Turid Rugaas

Rehomed and Rescued Border Collies

Peace & Quiet: The first steps to a new life for an older pup or adult Border Collie is 3 to 7 days of "peace & quiet" and a name change, unless your rescuer has already taken the dog through this phase. The rescued dog probably endured all kinds of stress before he was saved---let him get some rest before exposing him to this big, noisy world of ours.

The new Border Collie stays in a crate away from other dogs and the noise of household activity. Only one person works with the dog during this stage. Let the Border Collie out, on leash, 4 to 5 times a day, for fifteen to thirty minutes each time. This technique is hard on people, but it works like a re-birth into a new and better life for the dog. He'll learn to trust the person who is the source of all encouragement, water, food, directions, and hugs.

Isolation gives the Border Collie a chance to learn his new environment in a relaxed, safe atmosphere. His brain has a chance to stay calm and receptive to new lessons. He has a chance to grieve or recover from his previous life experiences. Teach the dog as if he's an 8 week old pup; use clear instructions and encouragement. This is also a good time to teach or reinforce housetraining and basic manners. Themost important thing to remember is to set the dog up for success every time he's with people.

The amount of "peace & quiet" is determined by the dog's reaction. The dog should be happy, but not hysterically so. He should have a calmness in his eyes and show enthusiasm for being with someone. A desire to learn will appear in the dog's posture and response time. When this happens, the dog is ready to learn more of his new world.

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THE ADOPTION OPTION by E. Rubenstein & S. Kalina

The Grizzly Bear's Gonna Get Me!

Border Collies live by the principle that just because you dont see a grizzly bear, doesnt mean it isnt there! Males, running to mark over puppies bathrooming spots, are hiding the scent of the puppies from the grizzly. Some females hide puppies this way. Males mark over some females bathrooming spots and not others. This may be a mating ritual or choosing some as pack members and letting others fend for themselves.

Males sniff and mark new territory. They need 15 minutes in new territory beforewe can expect them to pay attention to what we want. That fifteen minutes is spent exploring the territory and marking it to scare away any grizzlies that might be lurking around. Females do not want to leave their scent on new territory because their scent could attract a grizzly. It doesn't matter if the females are spayed and never had puppies; they still protect against the possibility of their puppies getting killed by the grizzly.

When a Border Collie is focused on something in front of him, anyone touching him from behind couldbe a grizzly. He'll whip his head around so fast that he can accidentally cut a person with his teeth. It's very important to teach children not to come up behind a Border Collie and touch him on the hips or shoulders.

When a Border Collie barks at a stranger, especially one wearing a funky hat or clothing, it could be a

grizzly bear in disguise! When a Border Collie barks frantically every time the doorbell rings, he's scaring the grizzly bear away from his family. Prevent this by teaching him how to confidently greet strangers.

When a Border Collie is startled out of a deep sleep, he might snap or growl. When someone comes into his home unexpectedly, he'll go into frenzied barking, mainly from embarrassment at being caught sleeping on the job. When he's with his family but visiting in someone else's home, he'll go overboard with barking at anyone coming into his family's room or walking in the hallway at night. These are all easily controlled grizzly bear situations; the sound of a cordial voice prepares him to encounter a friend.

If your Border Collie has encountered a "grizzly bear," he'll need help from you in similar situations so he can think about what is really happening and how to deal with it in a civilized way. Occasionally, a Border Collie needs medication to ease his fears. Tranquilizers and anti-anxiety medications by themselves are not enough. Medications combined with effective training techniques can make a tremendous difference.Read All About It

DIARY OF A 'DOTTY DOG' DOCTOR by John FisherPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY OF ANIMAL BEHAVIOR DISORDERS by Dodman and Shuster

Herding With Border Collies

An inexperienced handler working with an inexperienced Border Collie and inexperienced livestock can end in injury to at least one of the three species. Be prepared to invest time and money in learning before you take a new dog into the field.

Help in training is available in a variety of ways. Purchasing a started dog or sending your dog to a professional trainer will cost more money than time. (A started dog generally means that the dog is learning to balance, is going around, and can stay on the opposite side of sheep. Sometimes this definition is stretched a little to include beginning a short outrun and learning flank commands, but never more than that. Expect only the beginning of balancing and no outrun to speak of.) You still need to invest the time to learn what your dog already knows. Herding clinics, herding books, and videos take more time than money.

At first, the expense of a started dog, herding clinics, books, videos, or lessons with an experienced handler doesn't seem worth the bother, but the investment will eventually pay off in time saved and chiropractor bills avoided!

Carefully choose the right disposition of the Border Collie for your livestock. A calmer, level-headed dog is just right for a small dairy herd (as long as he has the spunk or training to nip wayward cows). A dog with great stamina and dive-in style is good for discouraging geese (as long as the dog is trained not to hurt the geese).

It's also important to understand what type of dog you enjoy working with. An easy, people-pleasing temperament is the right type of Border Collie to work with young 4-H students. People who can't help but yell and stomp around a bit when they are frustrated would be better off with a dog with a more

dominant personality that won't take the yelling personally. If, after you've done all the right research and tried various training methods, you still end up with the wrong Border Collie for you or your livestock, contact the breeder or your local rescuer to find an appropriate new home for your dog (if you have no time for the activities this dog enjoys). Chalk it up to lack of experience and keep looking.Read All About It

A WAY OF LIFE by H. Glyn JonesHERDING DOGS: PROGRESSIVE TRAINING by Vergil HollandLESSONS FROM A STOCKDOG by Bruce FogtTALKING SHEEPDOGS by Derek ScrimgeourThunderstorms and Loud Noises

Border Collies have a high startle reflex, which can sometimes endanger their lives. The suddenness of a clap of thunder, a gunshot, fireworks, or even just a book dropping on the floor can startle Border Collies into an over-reaction. These over-reactions can include nipping at the closest objects, dogs or people; leaping onto the lap of the person they feel will protect them; frenzied barking at the noise to scare it away; and, the most dangerous reaction of all, fleeing from the noise.

Give your Border Collie a routine to follow for sudden loud noises. Practice this routine (use a leash or a long-line during practice sessions) by using small sudden noises first and progressing towards louder noises until the dog tolerates the really big scary noises safely. Find a routine that can be adapted to usewhile you are outside doing activities with your dog, in the home while relaxing, and that the dog can use when alone.

One routine is to attach an activity the dog loves to the noise the dog fears. If the dog loves to play withsqueaky toys, play with the dog and then make a small noise. When the dog flees, coax the dog back byenticing with the toy while gently pulling the dog towards you with the leash. The dogs reward for coming to you (no matter how long it takes the first few times) is another play session. Your dog will learn to enjoy what used to be scary. Another routine is to teach the dog to flee towards a safe goal, such as a crate placed in a quiet area of your home.Read All About It

BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS IN DOGS by William CampbellTHE DOG WHO LOVED TOO MUCH by Nicholas Dodman

This and That

The following paragraphs are quick suggestions and opinions.

Multiple Dog Households

Slowly introduce the new dog to other dogs in the household. It is a stress to the new dog and the established pack to form new relationships. The new dog will be gaining confidence over the next 6 months; new problems and challenges can occur during this stage. Supervise or separate the dogs during all transition and development stages for their safety.

Generally, two Border Collies are easier to live with than one. A one year minimum difference in age, one of each sex, and/or diverse personalities is the calmest way to live with two Border Collies. Let the dogs establish their own hierarchy of responsibilities to a certain degree. Remember that humans run

the household and make the final rules. We dont recommend letting dogs fight it out.Read All About It

DOG BEHAVIOR by Ian DunbarIntermittent Reinforcement

Intermittent reinforcement is like playing the lottery. A person does a consistent action (paying for a lottery ticket) and receives an inconsistent reaction (no cash, some cash, huge amount of cash). Intermittent reinforcement is a good reward system for a Border Collie after hes learned the basics using the lure/reward systemRead All About It

SMART TRAINERS: BRILLIANT DOGS by Janet LewisIntermittent Corrections

Intermittent corrections create the same effect of encouraging a behavior as do intermittent reinforcements. A Border Collie who is yelled at some of the time for jumping on people, petted some of the time for jumping, and ignored some of the time has actually been taught to always jump on people. A Border Collie who can ignore a Recall is actually being taught to not come when he's called. If he's dragging a longline or leash when he's Recalled, he can't ignore the command. Use tabs, leashes and longlines throughout the lure/reward and intermittent reinforcement stages of training to help him learn manners and safety.

Border Collie Work Ethic

If you don't find jobs for your dog, he'll find his own. Most of the time, you won't like the jobs your Border Collie finds! More annoying jobs can be things like herding squirrels, digging giant craters in the backyard, constantly whining and pushing at people, or cornering cats and holding them there for hours. Border Collies' more dangerous jobs can be herding cars, swooping out at people and ferociously barking which can be misinterpreted as viciousness, or herding owners which could lead to a nasty fall.

If he's already chasing cats, the easiest way to control the behavior is to turn herding cats into a job he does with you in control. If he's digging craters in the backyard, create a digging hole for him out of harm's way. If he's constantly whining, give him the security of a consistent daily schedule of play, work, suppertime, and bedtime. If he's already chasing cars, get some help before he's seriously injured or dead.

Aggression

Get help, but be careful. Border Collies are often misdiagnosed by veterinarians and behaviorists with little or no experience with this breed. There are many complicated factors in dealing with aggression problems.

People have language to communicate angers, fears, and pains. We can call for help or remove ourselves from tense or dangerous situations. We can use our teeth, fists, clubs, knives, guns, and nuclear weapons. If one person kills another, our system might throw him in prison for awhile. But our dogs have few options for communicating their angers, fears, and pains to us. Warning growls, lip-curls, and biting are part of a dog's language. When a dog is hurt, confused, or scared and protects

himself by displaying what we call aggression, our system condemns him to death. Doesn't seem quite fair.