What are Border Collies like to live with?

[BC_MoM]

I honestly don't know where any of you get your Border Collies! The two I own (female is purebred, male is mixed with Collie) and all the ones I know are NOT neurotic, crazy, freaks, etc.

Border Collies are intense dogs. They need to have mind and body stimulation. They need good training. Most people with Border Collies that I know have gone to an obedience instructor that has owned a Border Collie in their life.

Molly is very intense. I call her a freak, but she's not..

I walk her 2 times a day, play tug/ball in the backyard several times a day, and throw a ball while I'm on the computer, or give her something to do every now and then inside and she's fine.

[Tralee]

Toby isn't neurotic, a freak or crazy (even though his nickname is crazy dog) He likes to herd people and dogs which many people find very odd, but thats what border collies are bred to do. The most frusterating thing is when people tease him by moving their hands so he chases the shadows. His compulsive behaviors are not allowed. They aren't as big of an issue as they used to be.

[Banders]

My grandfather has a border collie (bred for cattle farming) that he has had since she was just a pup. She's highly intelligent and highly protective of family. For example, when my sister and cousin were babies, she would "herd" them and if any stranger came near them, she would get infront of the children and snarl and snap at the stranger. She is very well-trained, but has never had any official/professional training and doesn't work cattle. Her parenting skills are amazing, she made a great mom with her own pups and with the grandkids . When my dog was a puppy, she would discipline him when she thought he "got out of line" by pinning him down until he behaved and even 1.7 years later, she does the same thing. I agree with most people on here when I say, border collies can make great pets to those who have time for them. They can be high energy, protective, and loyal as anything to the person or people they bond with. I say get one if you are willing to accept him/her for who they are...and willing to put time in with them...they will test the limits. The only thing that worries me about my grandfather's dog, is that she seems to be getting meaner the older she gets.