4 Furry Best Friends

........................................................................................................Diesel, Magnum, Perdie & Jade.....................................................................................................

Thursday, March 3, 2011

The Working Border Collie

Ball?

A JOB?

As Perdie settled into her forever home, she started to show signs that she was a 'true' Border Collie and ...needed a job. She fell in love with the tennis ball! Perdie is obsessed with playing  fetch. This may seem like a lot of fun... and it is...but in moderation.


This is an obsession. She wakes in the morning, running to the back door hoping you will throw a ball. She runs outside, lies by the door waiting for you to throw a ball, just on the off chance you might throw it. Every park she has ever played fetch in she remembers and pulls towards it as you take her for a walk.  My neighbors know when she is going to the park to play fetch as it takes everything in my power to quiet her as she pulls, barking with joy all the way to the park.  


The Pink Ball

AGILITY


A dog with an obsession is never a good thing. I think it is hard on her. A border collie is a lot of work because they need to be challenged...needing a job. Agility is outstanding work for her quick mind. She loves it. I love it too. Especially when the instructor tells me it is my fault she ran past a jump....I turned my shoulders and Perdie noticed and thought she was to go the other way? Looks like I'm the one taking lessons. Border collies have Incredible minds! 


BE REALISTIC ABOUT THIS BREED


Before bringing a working dog into your home be realistic with your expectations. They require a lot more time and energy than other breeds. They need stimulation and challenge. They are very active for 15 years or so. They can not be left home alone all day as Perdie was.



KNOWLEDGE IS POWER


Know as much about a breed as possible. My first rescue was an Australian Shepard on 'death row' at an animal shelter. She was misunderstood and without socialization and a 'job' she became fearful and aggressive. No one would go near her. Not even the staff at the shelter. 


Working dogs in the 'wrong hands' can become aggressive with fear. They don't know what to do so they snarl, growl and try to protect themselves. The number of smart, beautiful working dogs that have been euthanized is frightening. Please research the breed. 




Working Girl?



WHY RESCUE A MIXED BREED?


The majority of dogs in rescue are mixed breeds. You may find a lab-border collie cross or a flat coat retriever-border collie and maybe a little less 'working obsession' in these dogs.  There are wonderful mixes in rescue. That being said, if you are up for the active challenge of a working dog, there are plenty or border collies waiting in shelters. Some of the best agility dogs are rescued dogs.