Free Republic
Browse · Search
General/Chat
Topics · Post Article

To: Kartographer

I have seen several lists of dogs from the smartest to dumbest. They all vary a bit but every one lists the border collie as the smartest.

I have never owned one but would like to.


16 posted on 12/01/2012 8:34:15 AM PST by yarddog (One shot one miss.)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 1 | View Replies ]


To: yarddog

By all means get one.We’ve had border collies in the past,very loyal and scary smart.My wife would like to get one now,but I’m afraid that the German Shepherds we have now might bully it.


20 posted on 12/01/2012 8:40:40 AM PST by Farmer Dean (stop worrying about what they want to do to you,start thinking about what you want to do to them)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 16 | View Replies ]

To: yarddog
I have never owned one but would like to.

You need to talk to folks who own them first. They are NOT couch potatoes. They absolutely must have something to do. If you don't provide them with something to do, they will find stuff on their own, and the chances are extremely good you won't like what they find.

They need toys. A farm is probably the best BC toy, if you can afford one.

They need free run time every day, and preferably several times a day. Walking them on a leash will not suffice (although they are quite capable of learning good leash manners).

They are extremely smart (I have seen my BC learn things many times with only with a single trial), sensitive and want to please (requiring a gentle hand in training), but are also expected to think for themselves and act independently.

But more than anything, they are busy, busy, busy!

Be aware of what you are getting into.

43 posted on 12/01/2012 10:19:41 AM PST by rmh47 (Go Kats! - Got eight? [NRA Life Member])
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 16 | View Replies ]

To: yarddog

Uh, I suggest you do some research before hand.

Someone I know got a Border collie and they are very smart but must be kept busy. This breed of dog is a working dog, and unless you are willing to spend time, both moring and evening in providing activities for you collie, perhaps a more sedate dog would be better.

Just food for thought.


64 posted on 12/01/2012 2:15:56 PM PST by SatinDoll (NATURAL BORN CITZEN: BORN IN THE USA OF CITIZEN PARENTS.)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 16 | View Replies ]

Free Republic
Browse · Search
General/Chat
Topics · Post Article


FreeRepublic, LLC, PO BOX 9771, FRESNO, CA 93794
FreeRepublic.com is powered by software copyright 2000-2008 John Robinson