Sheepherders have been using dogs to tend their flocks since the 1500's. Dogs like the Border Collies have existed for centuries. Some old paintings show the shepherd's dog as one resembling the Border Collie. The Border Collie is descended from British droving breeds originating on the Scottish and English border. Mention of the 'Collie' or 'Colley' type first appeared toward the end of the nineteenth century with the current Border Collie type emerging with dogs such as Old Hemp in 1893. Wealthy Americans imported huge flocks of sheep from Britain, and the sheepherders and their good dogs came with them. When they needed more good dogs, they sent home for them.

   Other names were the Border, farm Collie, working Collies, Sheep dogs, drover dogs, guard dogs, farm dogs & Shepherds dogs. They are dogs who will keep the children from danger just as they would the sheep in their flocks. They are loyal to those they know and love, and many Border Collies simply do not 'need' any other people than their family, being totally content to be a part of their pack, their place.

   They are hard working farm dogs who adapt easily to different farm stock, and are proven to be the most intelligent of all breeds. They are are quick and agile, able to work on any terrain, and well-suited for short bursts of high speed. Sheepherders and farmers are able to just talk or merely nod to their dogs, and it is a quiet understanding between them. Border Collies from lines of keen minds can learn many words and signals with understanding. They yearn to be a part of the daily chores and activities. They remember, they watch, listen and memorize the farmers actions, sounds and words. The dog merely needs to watch the farmer 'call up' his stock a couple times, standing quietly and absorbing every action, and then the dog knows what the farmer is wanting the stock to do. The dog knows, because he desires to know. That is their whole world, pleasing their companion, their best friend. In their mind, they are there to be an equal partner, and they must learn, they want to learn. They can learn anything, and are only limited to how much you are willing to show and teach them. Do not lock them up, let them be a part of the farm, to expand their minds, learn and become a true part of it, and familiar with the stock.

   Border Collies are so intelligent, it's very important to raise them and treat them as as such. They learn fast and easy in situations where consistency is used. They want to know what actions from them will bring praise from you, and they will avoid actions that you show disapproval of. What is ok and funny one day can not get a scolding the next day, you might not remember, but they will, and you will not only insult their intelligence, but also hurt their feelings of pride. You must watch your tone of voice with them. No, said nicely, they will remember, respect you and
learn it. But a No, screamed at them in an ugly voice, will most likely make them leave your space. They will go lay down somewhere until you are ready to talk nice. They really are that smart. Their whole world is right when you tell them how good they are.

   Border Collies really, really need to be told and shown that they are wonderful, smart and a needed part of the pack. A dog thinks in packs, a family unit, and there must always be a head of the pack for the pack to be settled, ordered and happy. The dog will be most happy knowing it's place under you in the pack, because then it realizes you are the one providing food, attention and acceptance. You are the one to look to for guidance and training, just as a pup would look to it's parents. They are very affectionate dogs, and will seek it from you if you raise them with bonding, love and attention as part of their lives.  They are most content just being with you, whether out in the fields or sitting on the porch. 

  Teach them from the very beginning, as you would teach and love a child, to be well mannered when asked, and teach them it's ok to play and be happy.  After all, even in the pack, there is plenty of time spent playing and having fun.  As soon as we are finished with the sheep or goats, and leave the barn area, General will run and find his ball, because he knows he's done a good job helping, we are done, and it's time for a little fun!  Border Collies adore the sound of laughter from us....to them, it's means all is well and safe, no worries, our pack is happy.