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                               Border Collies
                                      
Author

     * April M. Quist, revised March 3, 1997 aquist@netcom.com
       
   Many thanks to Laura Alfonso, Carolyn Chamblin, Robin French, Terri
   Hardwick, Kathy Kemper, Janet Lewis, Nancy Gagliardi Little, Rita
   Susanto, Richard Whorton, and M. Christine Zink, DVM, for their input.
   Most of all, thanks to my first Border Collie, Summerwind Shiloh, UD
   (9/83 - 5/94), who taught me more about Border Collies than all the
   books in the world could have.
   
   This publication is not the official publication of any organization,
   my personal affiliations notwithstanding.
   
   Copyright 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 by April M. Quist. All rights
   reserved. You may download and print a copy of this file for your
   personal use. Further distribution must be with the explicit
   permission of the author, except as noted below.
   
   NOTE: Border Collie Rescue organizations and animal shelters may
   freely give a copy with each Border Collie they place, as long as the
   entire article remains intact, including copyright notice.
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Table of Contents

     * Characteristics and Temperament
     * Frequently asked Questions
     * History
     * Description
     * Training/Behavior Hints
     * Is a Border Collie For You?
     * Recognized
     * Special Medical Problems
     * References
          + Books
          + Periodicals
          + Email List about Border Collies
          + Web Sites
          + Breed Rescue Organizations 
          + Breeders
          + Registries
          + Breed Clubs
       
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Characteristics and Temperament

   The most outstanding characteristics of Border Collies are their
   working style, and their high energy, stamina, and desire to work
   above all other things. They work with their heads lowered, at times
   almost in a crouch, and with an intense stare that is almost
   mesmerizing. They notice every movement of their livestock, and they
   react by moving, at times almost imperceptibly, to take advantage of
   it or to counter it. Movement of both dog and stock is usually calm
   and fluid. These dogs are the world's premier sheep-working breed and
   are known for their athleticism, intelligence, and strong work ethic.
   
   Border Collies are _heading_ or _gathering_ herders, as opposed to
   _heelers_. This means that instead of driving livestock out by nipping
   at the heels as an Australian Cattle Dog would, for example, the
   Border Collie's instinct is to run out past a herd or flock, gather
   the animals, and return them to the shepherd. Border Collies can be
   taught to drive, but do not generally do it by instinct.
   
   Border Collies are usually workaholics. They are happiest when they
   have a job to do, whether that job be herding, obedience, agility, or
   any of the other active occupations and dog sports at which they
   excel. They are extremely quick, high-energy, busy dogs and they must
   have plenty of exercise. They are bred for endurance: a working Border
   Collie is able to run many miles a day over sometimes difficult
   terrain, then go out and do it again the next day. A one- or two-mile
   run is barely a warm-up for a Border Collie. People without the time
   to give a dog plenty of good, vigorous exercise every day should
   consider a calmer breed. A bored Border Collie can become neurotic,
   obsessive, and destructive.
   
   Border Collies herd everything that moves: livestock, birds, other
   dogs, cats, children, and even bugs. Although Border Collies herd by
   "eye" rather than by nipping at the heels of livestock, many are still
   nippy and might nip at you or your children's heels and legs when you
   run. They also tend to be car-chasers, and many Border Collie lives
   have ended early under the wheels of a car.
   
   With a Border Collie, you have an extra shadow! They follow you
   everywhere they can and are always underfoot. These dogs watch you
   constantly (as if you are the stock), and rush in front of you if they
   think something is going to happen. They thrive on attention and are
   very affectionate and people-oriented. However, good socialization is
   important for them: they can be reserved with people they don't know,
   and aggressive with other dogs. Border Collies are highly intelligent
   and quick learners, but they are slow to mature - they are "puppies"
   until around 2 or 3 years (or older), and many 10- and 12-year-old
   dogs are still very lively and full of energy. Don't expect a Border
   Collie to start acting mature and dignified at 3 or 4 years of age!
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Frequently Asked Questions

   _I heard that Border Collies are the most intelligent dog there is. Is
   this true?_
   
     Defining "most intelligent" is a highly subjective thing, and
     depends on what traits (such as trainability, reasoning ability,
     independent thinking, fitness for a particular task, etc.) you
     consider to be signs of intelligence. Still, by most standards
     Border Collies are very intelligent dogs. They are highly trainable
     and have good reasoning abilities. It's not unusual for them to
     learn a new command in just a few minutes with only a few
     repetitions. But their intelligence can also be a problem: many
     times they quickly learn things that the owner didn't intend for
     them to learn, and would prefer they didn't know! Their
     intelligence is one of the reasons that they tend to get bored (and
     into trouble) easily. But then, it's also one of the reasons they
     excel in obedience training/competition. However, Border Collies do
     not train themselves. All dogs need owners who are willing to
     commit the time to obedience training if the dogs are to become
     good companions, and the Border Collie is no exception.
     
   _How are they with children?_
   
     When properly socialized and well-supervised with children, some
     Border Collies can be fine. Those individuals often seem to know
     how boisterous or how gentle they need to be with different
     children. But Border Collies must be supervised around children to
     make sure neither hurts the other inadvertently. As previously
     mentioned, they often nip at fast-moving children. Border Collies
     that aren't well-socialized with them can be fearful and untrusting
     of children, and a nervous dog will snap at a child.
     
   _Are Border Collies hyperactive? Do they need a lot of exercise?_
   
     Border Collies should be very high-energy, busy dogs, both indoors
     and out. If bored, they will chew anything (books, shoes, table
     legs, carpet, furniture...). They also love to dig holes. Good
     forms of exercise for a Border Collie include playing fetch (they
     love to chase balls and Frisbees), swimming, jogging, running with
     a bicycle (be careful they don't try to herd the bike!), and
     hiking.
     
     Border Collies won't usually exercise on their own. Most require
     their owners to participate in their exercise programs. Merely
     putting a Border Collie into a fenced area as a form of exercise is
     not enough for them.
     
     When exercising a Border Collie, especially in warm weather, you
     must watch him very carefully for signs of heat exhaustion. Because
     they are so intense in their work and play, they often don't stop
     when they get too tired or too hot. They can easily work themselves
     to death, even on cool days. Another problem is that they can
     physically injure themselves because they are so quick and
     concentrate so completely on their task that they don't pay
     attention to where they are going and can run into obstacles if
     they happen to be in the way. It's also very common for Border
     Collies running on gravel, concrete, and asphalt to wear the pads
     of their feet down to the point where they bleed, especially when
     they're not used to hard, rough surfaces. Most Border Collies won't
     even limp until the fun is over, so be sure to keep an eye on your
     dog's feet!
     
   _How much exercise is enough for a Border Collie?_
   
     The answer to this question is as individual as the dogs
     themselves. In general, plan on two 45-minute walks per day (snow,
     rain, or shine!). At least 20 minutes of each of those walks should
     be off leash in a safe area, and should include a game of fetch or
     something equally vigorous. In addition, a 15- to 30- minute daily
     training session (obedience, tricks, etc., ) will help to keep your
     dog mentally stimulated _and_ well-behaved. Be sure to keep
     training fun and challenging for your dog - a Border Collie gets
     bored very rapidly by drilling and repetition of the same old
     exercises. (Don't expect all this work to keep that soggy tennis
     ball out of your lap when you're watching television, though. Your
     Border Collie will still have plenty of energy to spare!)
     
   _What active sports and activities can I participate in with a Border
   Collie?_
   
     Border Collies excel at competitive dog sports such as obedience,
     agility, Flyball, Scent Hurdles, Frisbee, and tracking. They make
     good search and rescue dogs. Some well-trained, well-socialized
     Border Collies are wonderful pet-therapy dogs, and some
     organizations train them as signal (hearing) and assistance dogs.
     And, of course, Border Collies are among the best herding dogs in
     the world.
     
   _Do they play "Fetch"?_
   
     One of a Border Collie's favorite games is "Fetch," and it's great
     exercise for them. They love chasing balls, Frisbees, and anything
     else that moves, and their gathering instinct makes them natural
     retrievers. In fact, the fetching can become obsessive and, to some
     people, annoying. Not everyone enjoys having tennis balls
     frequently dropped in their laps as they're trying to relax, and an
     insistent dog staring at them or scolding them until the ball is
     thrown - only to have the process repeated again (and again and
     again...) a few seconds later.
     
     A word of warning about playing Frisbee with a Border Collie (or
     any other dog): according to M. Christine Zink, DVM, Ph.D., author
     of the book _Peak Performance: Coaching the Canine Athlete_:
     "Frisbees can be very dangerous for dogs, particularly when they
     are thrown so that the dog must catch them with all four feet off
     the ground. The problem lies not in the dog jumping and catching
     the Frisbee, but in the fact that the trajectory of a Frisbee can
     change unpredictably, causing the dog to twist to catch it and then
     land in whatever position it can. The most common injuries as a
     consequence of Frisbee-catching are herniation of the disks of the
     spinal cord and tearing or rupture of the anterior cruciate
     ligaments. Both of these injuries can be severe enough to end a
     dog's performance career."
     
   _Do Border Collies like to swim?_
   
     Border Collies love to swim if encouraged to do so when they are
     young. Swimming is an excellent way to exercise these high-energy
     dogs during the hot summer months. It's also a good way of
     exercising a dog that has hip dysplasia.
     
   _What other things to they like to do that will help me exercise my
   dog and keep it mentally stimulated?_
   
     Many Border Collie love to chase and bite at bubbles blown from a
     children's bubble set. They also often love to chase water coming
     out of a hose (or spray bottle). Border Collies that understand the
     stay command (or that have someone who can hold onto them for a
     minute while another person hides) often love to play hide and
     seek, and they get very good at locating hiding people. They love a
     good, fast game of "Tag" (and they love to be "It"). Many Border
     Collies enjoy using their herding instinct to push basketball-sized
     balls around the yard, and it's not unusual to find Border Collies
     that will play tetherball by jumping at, biting, nosing, and pawing
     a tetherball around the pole. You can also teach your dog some
     informal agility by making using of the slides, tunnels, bridges,
     and teeter-totters available in your backyard or some parks'
     playgrounds.
     
   _Do Border Collie jump fences? Are they escape artists?_
   
     Border Collies are _extremely_ agile dogs and can easily jump/climb
     a 6-foot or taller fence if they decide there's something more
     interesting on the other side. They are also good diggers and
     chewers, so if they can't jump a fence, they might try to dig under
     it or chew through it if they want to get out. And don't forget
     their intelligence: some Border Collies can learn to open doors and
     latches!
     
   _How big do Border Collies get?_
   
     Border Collies average between 30 to 50 pounds. However, if size is
     important to you, be aware that some Border Collies are as small as
     25 pounds, and some are as large as 65 pounds. If you plan to get a
     puppy and you need or want a dog whose size you can count on, you
     might want to consider some other breed.
     
   _Do they make good guard dogs?_
   
     They are not reliable guard dogs. They can be protective of their
     families and generally bark if they hear or see something they
     don't like. (There are, however, some Border Collies that have been
     trained to advanced Schutzhund degrees.)
     
   _Do they shed?_
   
     They are moderate shedders. Like most dogs, they shed most in early
     spring and late fall.
     
   _How much grooming do they need?_
   
     Border Collies are fairly low-maintenance dogs. They don't need
     frequent baths, because their coats actually shed dirt very nicely.
     A good 10-minute brushing two or three times per week helps to keep
     their coats clean and in nice condition; more frequent brushing
     while they are shedding helps to control the amount of hair that
     ends up on your carpet. Like all dogs, they also need to have their
     toenails clipped regularly.
     
   _Do they bark much?_
   
     Any dog can become a barker if it gets bored, and Border Collies
     become more easily bored than most other dogs. In general, however,
     well-trained, well-exercised Border Collies that get plenty of
     attention are relatively quiet dogs.
     
   _Where should I get my dog?_
   
     There are several options, some good, others not so good. If you
     choose to get an adult dog, you can get one from a shelter, from a
     Border Collie rescue organization, or from a breeder who is looking
     for a home for an adult Border Collie. If you decide to get a
     puppy, you should do some research and find a breeder with a good
     reputation. Do _not_ buy a Border Collie puppy from a pet store.
     Although these puppies are adorable, they are generally from puppy
     mills and are incredibly overpriced. Most people don't realize that
     they can usually buy a very well-bred, well-socialized, pet-quality
     puppy with exceptional guarantees from a reputable breeder for less
     money than they can buy a puppy from a pet store. Pet store puppies
     have usually been bred for profit with little consideration given
     to long-term health. They are often prone to many problems, such as
     epilepsy, hip and joint problems, and early blindness. They are
     also usually poorly socialized, which means they can grow up to be
     timid, fearful dogs. Do not even buy from pet stores advertising
     that their animals are not from puppy mills: _no reputable breeder
     would ever sell puppies to a pet store_! You will often encounter
     the same problems with health and socialization with puppies sold
     through ads in the newspaper. The best way to find a good breeder
     is by asking people who already own healthy Border Collies with
     good temperaments.
     
   _Don't "rescued" Border Collies have a lot of behavior problems? Do
   they have trouble bonding with their new owners?_
   
     Rescue can be an excellent way of getting a Border Collie,
     particularly if it will be your first one. The dogs that come into
     rescue are often well-bred, healthy dogs screened by the rescuer
     for temperament, whose only "faults" were that they were in homes
     that could not deal with the exercise and training needs of the
     breed. The dogs are often housebroken, and sometimes partially
     trained in basic obedience. Border Collies that go from rescue into
     active, loving homes seem to bond very quickly and strongly to
     their new owners. You can even sometimes get a puppy from rescue!
     (See the section on Breed Rescue Organizations for contacts and
     further information.)
     
   _How do I choose a puppy?_
   
     If you want a healthy puppy with a good temperament, the most
     important thing is to not be in a hurry! First, decide what
     activities you want to do with the dog: herding, obedience,
     agility, active pet (jogging, hiking), etc. Once you know what
     you're looking for, talk to breeders and discuss your concerns and
     ideas. Since Border Collies are prone to eye diseases such as
     Progressive Retinal Atrophy and juvenile cataracts, and hip
     problems such as hip dysplasia, look for a breeder who has all
     dogs' eyes and hips checked and certified: eyes are certified by
     C.E.R.F., and hips are certified by O.F.A. Be sure to ask to see
     the certificates issued by those organizations. Make sure the
     puppies are well-socialized: they should be friendly and confident.
     When you find a someone that you like and who has a good
     reputation, allow the breeder to help you select your puppy. Most
     breeders have a pretty good idea of what the puppies' personalities
     are like and will help you to make a good choice of the best puppy
     for your particular lifestyle.
     
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
History

   The Border Collie originated in the border country between Scotland
   and England. It is a very old breed, with references in literature
   going back to at least 1570 in writings by Dr. Caius. Caius mentions
   him as "not huge, vaste and bigge but of indifferent stature and
   growth" (from the AKC Miscellaneous Breeds booklet). The breed has
   been known as the Working Collie, Old-Fashioned Collie, Farm Collie,
   and English Collie. It was in 1915 that James Reid, Secretary of the
   International Sheepdog Society in Great Britain, first called the dog
   a Border Collie.
   
   The first sheepdog trials were held on October 9, 1873 in Bala, Wales.
   In the United States, the trials started in 1880.
   
  Famous Border Collies
  
   Any history of Border Collies has to include mention of two particular
   dogs: Old Hemp and Wiston Cap. There are plenty of brilliant Border
   collies in Great Britain's past, but these two have had a great deal
   of influence on the modern Border Collie.
   
    Old Hemp
    
   Old Hemp, a tri-color dog, was born September 1893 and died May 1901.
   He was bred by Adam Telfer from Roy, a black and tan dog, and Meg, a
   black-coated, strong-eyed dog. Hemp was a quiet, powerful dog that
   sheep responded to easily. Many shepherds used him for stud on their
   bitches, and Hemp's working style became the Border Collie style. It
   is believed that Old Hemp's blood runs in the veins of almost all
   Border Collies today.
   
    Wiston Cap
    
   Wiston Cap is the dog that the International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS)
   badge portrays in the characteristic Border Collie herding pose. He
   was the most popular and used stud dog in the history of the breed,
   and appears in a huge percentage of pedigrees today. Bred by W. S.
   Hetherington and trained and handled by John Richardson, Cap was a
   biddable and good-natured dog. His blood lines all trace back to the
   early registered dogs of the stud book, and to J. M. Wilson's Cap, who
   occurs sixteen times within seven generations in his pedigree. Wiston
   Cap sired three Supreme Champions and is grand-sire of three others,
   one of which is E. W. Edwards' Bill, who won the championship twice.
   
  The Border Collie Controversy
  
   The Border Collie is a breed that brings out a great deal of passion
   in the people who love it, especially in regard to what is best for
   the breed. Unfortunately, there is much disagreement on that subject,
   and the disagreement has created some hard feelings among people who
   are intensely concerned about the Border Collie's future. Following is
   a very simplified summary of the three main groups.
   
   Many people, particularly Border Collie owners from the herding
   community, feel that American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition in the
   United States, and Canadian Kennel Club recognition (CKC) in Canada,
   will irreparably harm the Border Collie. These people believe that
   breeding the dogs to a conformation standard (that is, for beauty or a
   certain look) will, at best, split the breed in North America by
   creating a set of Border Collies that are pretty but can't work. They
   take the dogs' herding instinct very seriously, and believe it would
   be a serious injustice to the breed if this were to happen.
   
   Many other people, especially those involved in showing their dogs in
   AKC obedience trials and other performance events, believe that a
   committed AKC parent club will be able to keep a major split from
   happening by placing a strong emphasis on herding and performance,
   especially when it comes to breeding dogs.
   
   There is also a group of Border Collie owners who are primarily
   interested in showing in conformation. Many of these people have
   imported conformation-bred Border Collies from the UK, Australia, and
   New Zealand, where the breed has been recognized by the Kennel Clubs
   for a number of years.
   
   In 1994, breed clubs for all breeds that had been in the Miscellaneous
   group for many years without seeking full recognition (including the
   Australian Kelpie, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and the Greater
   Swiss Mountain Dog) were notified by the AKC that they had to either
   seek recognition or be dropped from the AKC entirely. The AKC had made
   the decision that the Miscellaneous group should be used as it was
   intended: as a temporary holding place for breeds actively seeking
   recognition.
   
   In December 1994, the AKC voted to officially recognize the Border
   Collie after many years of its being in the Miscellaneous group (no
   one seems to be sure exactly how long it's been, but it's apparently
   at least since 1955). Registration began in February, 1995. As a
   Miscellaneous breed, the Border Collie was allowed to show only in AKC
   obedience and tracking trials; on February 1, 1995, the breed also
   became eligible to show in herding and agility trials. In October
   1995, Border Collies were seen for the first time in AKC conformation
   as part of the herding group. And finally, in the summer of 1996, the
   Border Collie Society of America (BCSA) was selected as the AKC parent
   club for the breed.
   
   The Canadian Kennel Club, due to its inability to recognize the breed
   at this time, removed the Border Collie from its Miscellaneous group.
   (The process of breed recognition is regulated by the Canadian
   government through the Animal Pedigree Act.) As a result, any Border
   Collies not CKC miscellaneous certified by the end of 1993 are not
   allowed to participate in CKC-sanctioned events. The Border Collie
   Club of Canada (BCCC) is continuing to work with the CKC to regain
   their showing privileges.
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Description

   Emphasis is traditionally on intelligence, trainability, and herding
   instinct rather than on beauty. When a sheep rancher goes looking for
   a Border Collie to help him with the sheep on his ranch, or for a
   Border Collie that he can compete with in herding trials, what the dog
   looks like is usually the last thing on his mind. He doesn't care what
   color the dog is, or how big he is, or whether his ears stand up or
   flop down. The rancher does want the dog to be highly intelligent and
   trainable, have good herding instinct, and to be physically capable of
   performing the work. The rancher will watch to make sure the dog has
   the Border Collie eye, with which he controls the stock. Tail-carriage
   is also important: the dog should carry his tail low along his back
   legs with an upward turn at the end, because a dog that carries his
   tail above his back (called a "gay tail") is not concentrating on his
   work.
   
   In general, Border Collies are medium-sized dogs, averaging between 35
   and 50 pounds, but individuals are seen that are as small as 25
   pounds, and as large as 65 pounds. The most common color is black and
   white, but black, white, and tan (tri), red and white, red-tri, red
   merle, blue merle, and blue and white are also perfectly acceptable.
   Ear set can be almost anything, from floppy or "rose," to semi-prick,
   to prick. Eyes can be of any color: some dogs have one blue and one
   brown eye. "Typical" Border collie markings are colored body with a
   white blaze up the face, white collar, white feet and legs, and a
   white tail tip, but there are many dogs that are almost solid-colored,
   which, again, is perfectly acceptable because it has no bearing on how
   the dog works.
   
   Be aware that many excellent breeders do not breed to the AKC
   standard. They believe that working ability _alone_ is the only way to
   define a Border Collie. If a breeder is breeding toward the AKC
   standard, s/he should also be breeding for herding ability.
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Training/Behavior Hints

   Border Collies are often "soft" dogs; that is, they are sensitive to
   rough treatment and corrections. You must be firm and consistent
   because these dogs will try to get away with as much as they can, but
   you must also be fair in your corrections and training. Typical
   reactions from a Border Collie that has been stressed by rough or
   unfair treatment are that it may shut down, possibly rolling onto its
   back in submission, or acting very engrossed in something else and
   paying no attention to you; or it may become more anxious and wound
   up, trying to do everything in triple time, which causes it to make
   even more mistakes. Motivational-type training, with plenty of treats
   and/or play, works best with soft dogs. It brings out the best in
   them, helping to turn them into excellent, happy workers that love
   their training sessions.
   
   Attention-training is important for Border Collies that will be shown
   in obedience competition. These dogs are very sight-oriented, and are
   easily distracted by anything moving around them. A dog that is
   closely watching his handler cannot pay attention to other things that
   are happening around him.
   
   Border Collies make wonderful trick dogs. They love to learn new
   things and can be taught many behaviors, such as sitting up, playing
   dead, and rolling over, and they usually love to show off. They can be
   very undignified and clownish if they think it will get them attention
   or make people laugh. This is why these dogs are so popular in movies
   and television.
   
   Border Collies can be very sound-sensitive. This sensitivity manifests
   itself in a couple of ways: some dogs become very frightened at loud
   or unusual noises (i.e., fireworks, the sound of a smoke alarm, even
   something as simple as hand-clapping); other dogs might just be
   extremely distracted by different noises.
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Is a Border Collie For You?

   With the recent media attention focused on the Border Collie, many
   people are now considering one as a potential new pet. While Border
   collies are very intelligent, they also require a larger time and
   energy commitment from their owners than many other breeds. They are
   active, spirited, and sometimes strong willed. Although some may be
   calmer than others, others are decidedly hyperactive, always wanting
   to be up and doing something. They often exhibit obsessive behaviors,
   like chasing lights, shadows, and running or dripping water. Many
   owners have no patience for this kind of activity, but breed lovers
   seem to enjoy this loony streak.
   
   There is no way of telling how highly developed a pup's herding
   instinct will be. If you acquire one that wants to work above all
   else, its frustration may take the form of herding and possibly
   nipping at the heels of children, running adults, or other animals.
   This is not a sign of viciousness, but it is something that _must be
   controlled_, especially with small children who can become frightened
   with the behavior.
   
   The people who make the most satisfied Border Collie owners are people
   who enjoy spending a lot of time with their dogs and are willing and
   able to make the commitment to exercise and train in s ome way every
   day; who are very active, who like to hike, jog, and/or take long
   walks with their dogs; who don't mind living with a dog that never
   really settles down, even in the house, even after a lot of exercise,
   even when its owner is tired from a long day at work; and _most
   important__,_ who have a real job for the dogs to do, whether it's one
   of the dog sports that these dogs excel at, or, of course, herding a
   flock of sheep.
   
   In summary, Border Collies are much more work than most other breeds.
   They do not typically make easy family pets. If you have never been
   around one, try to spend some time with the breed before you decide to
   get one. Many Border Collies end up in shelters when their owners find
   that they are just too much trouble to have around because they need
   so much exercise, attention, and training/mental stimulation.
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Recognized

   American Kennel Club
   Australian National Kennel Council
   FCI
   Kennel Club of Great Britain
   Raad van Beheer
   United Kennel Club
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
Special Medical Problems

   There is a mistaken belief by some breeders that the Border Collie's
   work weeds out unhealthy breeding stock and, as a result, the breed is
   unaffected by the genetic disorders common in other breeds. _This
   belief is absolutely untrue!_ It is estimated that approximately 25%
   of Border Collies in the U.S. have disorders such as hip dysplasia,
   eye problems, and epilepsy. If a breeder tells you that the breed is
   unaffected by these problems, _find another breeder._ Also, if a
   breeder tells you he doesn't check and certify hips and eyes because
   his particular breeding lines are unaffected by hip and eye problems,
   find another breeder.
   
  Hip Dysplasia
  
   Like most medium- and large-sized dogs, Border Collies are prone to
   Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD), which can cause mild to severe lameness,
   so be sure to look for breeders that certify their dogs through the
   OFA and insist on seeing the certificates. Dogs do not have to be
   obviously lame to have this condition and pass it on to their
   offspring.
   
  Osteochondritis Dissecans
  
   A disease that can cause lameness in the joints of young dogs (usually
   from 6 to 12 months of age) is Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD). This
   is a degenerative disease of the joints, and is possibly associated
   with over-nutrition and too-fast growth of puppies.
   
  Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  
   Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Central Retinal Atrophy (CPRA)
   are two eye problems. PRA generally shows up in dogs around two years
   of age. At first it shows up as night blindness, and slowly progresses
   over eight years or so to total blindness. Dogs that are bred should
   have their eyes checked and certified by a veterinary ophthalmologist.
   Again, insist on seeing the certificates.
   
  Collie Eye Anomaly
  
   Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is another eye problem that is becoming more
   and more common in Border Collies. Like PRA, CEA can also cause
   blindness. The entire litter should be tested for CEA between the ages
   of six and ten weeks by a qualified veterinary ophthalmologist. An
   official certificate should be available if the litter has been
   tested, and every puppy in the litter should be listed as normal.
   
  Deafness
  
   Congenital deafness can be a problem in some predominantly white
   Border collies.
   
  Epilepsy
  
   Border Collies are also prone to epilepsy, a neurological seizure
   disorder. Unfortunately, there is no test for this. Ask the breeder if
   there are any known epilepsy problems. Ethical breeders will be more
   than happy to discuss this with you.
   
  Anesthetics
  
   Because of their low body fat, some Border Collies may be sensitive to
   barbiturate-based anesthetics. This is something that you should
   discuss with your veterinarian before any kind of surgery or procedure
   for which your dog will be anesthetized.
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
References

  Books
  
   AKC, _Misc Class Breeds_, November 1985
   
   Billingham, Viv, _One Woman and Her Dog_, Hi-Ridge Farm, Ontario,
   Canada
   
   Carpenter, E. B., _Blue Ribband of the Heather: The Supreme Champions
   1906 - 1988_, Farming Press Books, Ipswich, UK, 1989
   
   Combe, Iris, _Border Collies_, Faber and Faber, London
   
   Jones, H. Glyn, _A Way of Life_, Diamond Farm Enterprises, Alexandria,
   NY, 1987
   
   Larson, Janet E., _The Versatile Border Collie_, Alpine Publications,
   Inc., Loveland, Colorado, 1987
   
   Longton, Tim, and Hart, Edward, _The Sheepdog: Its Work and Training_,
   David and Charles, London, 1976
   
   McCaig, Donald, _Nop's Trials_ (Fiction), Crown Publishers, New York,
   NY, 1984
   
   McCaig, Donald, _Eminent Dogs, Dangerous Men_, Burlingame Books, New
   York, NY, 1991
   
   Wilcox, Bonnie, DVM, and Walkowicz, Chris, _Atlas of Dog Breeds_, TFH
   Publications, Inc., 1991
   
   Zink, M. Christine, DVM,_ Peak Performance: Coaching the Canine
   Athlete_, Howell Book House, 1992
   
  Periodicals
  
   _American Border Collie_
   12056 Mt. Vernon Avenue, #303N
   Grand Terrace, CA 92313-5116
   
   _Borderlines_
   (Newsletter for BCSA)
   Editor: Helen Phillips
   email: sheepdog@entertain.com
   Arvada, CO
   
   _The National Stock Dog Magazine_
   312 Portland Road
   Waterloo, WI 53594
   
   _The Ranch Dog Trainer_
   Rt. 2, Box 333
   West Plains, MO 65775
   
   _The Shepherd's Dogge_
   Woolgather Farm
   Box 843
   Ithaca, NY
   
   _The Working Border Collie Magazine_
   14933 Kirkwood Road
   Sidney, OH 45365
   
   _United States Border Collie Club Newsletter_
   Route 1, Box 83-D
   Julian, PA 16844
   
  Email List about Border Collies
  
   A mailing list is available for discussing issues and topics relating
   to Border Collies. You can join by sending a message to:
   
     listproc@cornell.edu
     
   In the body of the message, put the lines:
   
     subscribe BC-L _firstname lastname_
     
   There is also a mailing list specifically for herding with Border
   collies. To join, send email to:
   
     listproc@cornell.edu
     
   In the body of the message, put the lines:
   
     subscribe SHEEPDOG-L _firstname lastname_
     
  Web Sites
  
     * http://mendel.berkeley.edu/dogs/bcs.html
       
  Breed Rescue Organizations
  
   Most of the people listed below are experts at matching dogs with the
   right homes, so, for example, you won't end up with a dog with intense
   herding instincts if what you want is just an active companion. Most
   are also very knowledgeable about dog behavior, and are happy to
   answer any questions and help you with any problems you might have
   after you get your new dog home.
   
   Border Collie Rescue
   Val Maurer
   1955 Andrews Street, NE
   Hartville, OH
   (216) 877-6566
   MossMaurer@aol.com
   
   Border Collie Rescue
   2455 SW 87th Place
   Ocala, FL 34476
   Rescue Information: (888) THATLDO
   Phone (352) 854-8351
   email: bcr@bcrescue.org
   The following Web site lists available dogs in all parts of the US:
   http://www.bcrescue.org
   
   Kay Gaeta (NABCRN)
   PO Box 2363
   Corvallis, OR 97339
   (541) 929-4376
   
   North American Border Collie Rescue Network, Inc. (NABCRN)
   Box 843
   Ithaca, NY 14851
   24-Hour hotline: (315)597-3669
   http://www.woolgather.baka.com/NABCRN
   
   Nancy Starkey
   The Border Collie Rescue Organization
   Mount Airy, Maryland
   (301) 253-4732
   
  Breeders
  
   For lists of breeders, contact the one of the breed clubs listed later
   in this article. Be sure to interview the breeders very carefully, and
   expect them to interview you to make sure you can provide an
   appropriate home for one of their puppies. Responsible breeders are
   very careful about who they send their puppies home with.
   
  Registries
  
   _The American Border Collie Association Inc_. (ABCA)
   82 Rogers Road, Perkinston, MS 39573 USA
   (601) 928-7551
   
   _The American-International Border Collie Registry, Inc._ (AIBC)
   c/o Senette Parker, PO Box 274, Chappell Hills, TX 77426, USA
   (409) 836-4864
   
   _The American Kennel Club_. (AKC)
   51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY USA
   
   _The North American Sheep Dog Society_ (NASDS)
   RR 3, McLeansboro, IL 62859, USA
   
   _Raad van Beheer_
   Postbus 75901, 1070 AX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
   
   _The Kennel Club_
   I-4 Clarges St. Piccadilly, London, W1Y8AB, England
   
   _The International Sheep Dog Society_ (ISDS)
   Chesam House, 47 Bromham Road, Bedford, England MK40 2AA
   
   _The Australian National Kennel Council_
   Royal Show Grounds, Ascot Vale, Victoria, Australia
   
   _The United Kennel Club_ (UKC)
   100 East Kilgore Rd., Kalamazoo, MI 49001 USA
   
   _World Wide Kennel Club_
   PO Box 62, Mt. Vernon, NY
   or
   1101 Midland Avenue, Suite 101, Bronxville, NY 10708
   
  Breed Clubs
  
   Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with any inquiry.
   
   _The Australian Border Collie Society_
   Pitt Town, NSW 2756, Australia
   
   _The Border Collie Club of Great Britain_
   Mrs. Jane Cresswell, Secretary
   15, St. Ives Close, Weeping Cross
   Stafford ST17 OHD England
   Tel. 1 0044 / 1785 / 664619
   Fax 0044 / 1785 / 664619
   
   _Border Collie Club Nederland_
   Vloedlijn 33
   1759 JV Callantsoog
   The Netherlands
   
   _Border Collie Society of America, Inc_ (BCSA)
   (AKC Parent Club)
   815 Royal Oaks Drive
   Durham, NC 27712
   http://www.duke.edu/~awho/bc/bcsa.htm
   
   _The United States Border Collie Club_
   (Herding-Oriented Club)
   Route 1, Box 23
   White Post, VA 22663
   http://www.bordercollie.org
   
     _________________________________________________________________
                                      
   
    Border Collie FAQ
    April Quist, aquist@netcom.com
