The Border Collie
Thinking of buying a new dog ? Not sure what type is best for your lifestyle ? Got young children and nervous about how the dog will fit into family life, then let us help. Every month we will road test a different breed, tell you the pros and cons of owning this particular type of dog and getting lots of advice on care and treatment from our resident vet.
The Border Collie
For
If you are after a very intelligent, highly trainable and extremely loyal dog then you won’t be disappointed here.
Against
Can be very excitable and not an ideal first time dog. This trait could make it a bit of a risk with very young children.
The word Collie is taken from the Gaelic for ‘very useful’ which, if you live on a farm, is exactly what they are. Originally from the border country between England and Scotland, the Border Collie can now be seen almost everywhere and there are very few sheep farms without one!
Performance
It is the models working heritage that creates the greatest benefits for the owner with a great engine that never wants to stop. This can also prove to be a bit of a headache, especially after a long day at the controls. Collies are highly tuned and need the benefit of a long run if they’re not rounding up sheep on the farm all day. And just watch them go as they’re generally very quick off the mark with a relatively high top speed – even up hill!
Handling
This model can give its owner a very bouncy and energetic ride, which is great if you can handle it! For this very reason watch them with very young children as they could get knocked over.
Quickly trained they’re fine on the leash and very obedient and will even come back when you call them, eventually……….
Economy
As with all models the necessary servicing is expected with vaccinations and the like but the breed is generally very robust and low maintenance. One good meal a day should keep the tank nicely filled, although the more highly tuned models may need two.
Build
Medium sized with either long or short-haired body work. Very strong and reliable, which reflects their production for farm working. Body work will need regular washing and brushing, especially if a long haired model.
Comfort
Will make an excellent acquisition but perhaps not for the first time buyer. Can tend to pull to one side when leashed, especially at high speeds if you can hang on!
Equipment
It’s all there, four legs, one tail and a loud bark. There are no optional extras with this model.
Styling
Either very sleek or shaggy, the appearance of this model is sure to please and has been known to turn a few heads.
Insurance
We always recommend you fully insure your dog in case of loss or accidents.
Value for Money
It has to be said that a Border Collie will give many years faithful service, if fed the right fuel, and is relatively low in maintenance costs. As opposed to many other models, a Collie can be found for little initial investment but make allowances for some of its high performance.
Overall a star buy.
Performance - 4 Stars
Handling - 3.5 Stars
Economy - 4.5 Stars
Build - 4 Stars
Comfort - 3.5 Stars
Eqipment - 5 Stars
Styling - 5 Stars
Value for Money - 4.5 Stars