Border Collie Rescue take in, care for and rehabilitate unwanted Border Collies and Working Sheepdogs. The Border Collie Rescue Society believe that Border Collies are not necessarily suited to a pet environment as they are first and foremost working dogs. However some dogs do make suitable companion dogs, in the right hands.

I have owned and trained, and lived with a number of Border Collies over the years and handled many more during the course of my work. I have owned and worked with many other breeds and "rescue" dogs too and it is my firm believe that no dog should go to another home without assessment and possible re-training.

At their rehabilitation centre in York, Border Collie Rescue provides facilities for a wide variety of assessments to help provide training, therapy and rehabilitation for Border Collies and Working Sheepdogs.

If you would like to contact Border Collie Rescue, you can reach them on 0870 4445838

A BIT ABOUT BORDER COLLIES

It has often been stated that the Border Collie is suited only to a "working home". The "working home" could be described as a farm home where the collie is used for work with sheep or cattle. A "working home" can also include working trials, obedience, agility, fly ball or any other of the many dog related sports and activities. Not all dogs are suited to all disciplines! And this is where assessment can help to place the collie in the most suitable environment.

It isn't necessary for owners of Border Collies to compete in their chosen sport, but simply provide regular and and appropriate mental stimulation and exercise that training for these sports can provide.

All dogs benefit from having a job to do, but this is an absolute necessity for the Border Collie. He is not a lap dog, nor a children's companion. He is an active working breed who, without adequate input can become a problem dog, through no fault of his own.

Like other breeds, there are also individuals. There are bound to be some Border Collies who will make acceptable pet and companion dogs, but they are in the minority. A dog's personality and temperament is not always obvious in puppyhood, and behavioural development takes time. Don't consider a Border Collie as a pet if you are only attracted by his handsome appearance, medium size or apparent ease of training.

Please note that unfortunately, I am unable to give advice regarding training and behaviour by email or telephone.