Border collies are a working and herding breed of dog that originated from the Anglo-Scottish border region. They were specifically bred to herd livestock, in particular sheep. They are known for their intelligence, energy, athleticism, loyalty, alertness, and tenacity. Here are five Border collie facts to introduce you to this iconic dog breed.
5 Intelligent Border Collie Facts
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- Border collies are often considered the most intelligent dog breed. (source) The majority of agility stars, sheepdog herding winners, obedience champions, and flyball extraordinaires are border collies. Professor of canine psychology Stanley Coren awarded Border collies with the highest rank of intelligence due to their ability to learn and follow commands rapidly.
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- Their name comes from their origin region. (source) Border collies originated in Northumberland, a region on the very border of England and Scotland, hence the word “border” in their name.
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- All Border collies originate from Old Hemp. (source) Old Hemp was a stud dog that is considered the progenitor of the border collie breed. His incredible ability to herd sheep inspired his owner Adam Telfer to breed him. Tefler once stated: “he flashed like a meteor across the sheepdog horizon. There never was such an outstanding personality.” Border collies today still embody Old Hemp’s intensity, dedication, and athleticism.
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- A Border collie named Chaser was widely recognized as the world’s smartest dog. (source) She could recognize the names of over 1,000 objects, and even got to show off her smarts to Neil deGrasse Tyson.
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- Border collies make amazing search and rescue dogs. (source) A Border collie named Blitz rescued a missing woman who was lost beneath thick foliage for nearly two days.
Do you have any more facts about Border collies? Let us know in the comments below!
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