Red Border Collie: Facts, Origin & History (With Pictures)
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Border Collies are one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. They are known for their loyalty, energetic personalities, and amazing work ethic. But have you been lucky enough to see the Red Border Collie? Also known as the “Foxy Collie,” Border Collies with the recessive red gene is quite rare. To create a Red Border Collie, the dog in question must have two copies of the gene required. This leaves these dogs highly sought after and beloved when they are born.
Let’s take a deeper look at Border Collies, including the beautiful Red Border Collie, and learn more about these amazing dogs.
| Height: | 18 – 22 inches |
| Weight: | 30 – 55 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
| Colors: | Red, red and white, red merle black, black and white, sable, brindle |
| Suitable for: | Active families, those looking for a herding dog |
| Temperament: | Loyal & loving, intelligent, easy to train, affectionate, energetic |
Border Collies are highly energetic, intelligent, working dogs that were bred for herding livestock. Because of their intelligence, they are easy to train and they’re also very loyal to their owners. However, they will need lots of exercise and mental stimulation to help them stay healthy and keep them from getting bored. They come in many color variations besides red, but this article will focus on the Red Border Collie.
Border Collie Characteristics
The Earliest Records of the Red Border Collie in History
Border Collies were originally bred in the 1800s on the border between the UK and Scotland. This area is known as Northumberland. With this breed striving so well on this border, it was only natural that the name would become Border Collie. The father of the Border Collie breed was an intense, quiet, and well-mannered dog by the name of Old Hemp.
Old Hemp’s way of controlling sheep was different from the other herding dogs in the area. He didn’t bark as much, was mild-mannered, and could get a lot done by simply giving the sheep “the eye” which has become a trademark of the Border Collie. This made Old Hemp quite sought after. Throughout his life, Old Hemp sired at least 200 puppies. All Border Collies of the modern age can be traced back to this amazing dog.
It was James Reid, the secretary of the International Sheep Dog Society, however, that came up with the name Border Collie. He used this name as a way to separate Border Collies and Collies. The International Sheep Dog Society was also the first to create a Border Collie registry where the father of the breed, Old Hemp, was posthumously registered.
It’s unclear when the Red Border Collie originated, but as mentioned, Red Border Collies are rare. However, as a recessive color, both of a Border Collie’s parents must be red as well in order for this color to be expressed in a puppy. Other red color variations include red and white and red merle.
How the Red Border Collie Gained Popularity
Border Collies weren’t originally bred for their beauty or to be good pets. These dogs were considered working dogs, therefore it’s difficult to determine when the first Red Border Collie came into existence and when it became popular. What we do know is that Queen Victoria is credited for being the one to make the breed as a whole popular. In the 1900s, she took a liking to the breed. As the Queen brought Border Collies into her life as personal pets, others began taking note. By the end of the century, Border Collies weren’t only seen as working or competition dogs. They were also seen as companions that could be refined and beautiful.
During the 20th century, the breeding of Border Collies for appearance and companionship was on the rise. It’s suspected that during this time is when the first Red Border Collies were appreciated. If this coloration appeared on the farm, it wouldn’t have been considered notable as those dogs were bred for working only.
Formal Recognition of the Red Border Collie
In 1995, Border Collies were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. Surprisingly enough, there were no limitations set in place when it comes to the breed’s coloration. All colors of Border Collie are recognized with the beautiful and unique red being among them.
Top 3 Unique Facts About the Red Border Collie
1. Border Collies Are One of the Most Intelligent Dog Breeds in the World
Border Collies, including the rare Red Border Collie, are at the top of the list when it comes to dogs with brains. When ranking dog breeds by their intelligence, most experts place this breed first. They are easy to train, love to work, and have been included in record books thanks to their ability to identify and remember things.
2. Red Border Collies Are Very Active
It isn’t surprising that as working dogs, Red Border Collies have a lot of energy. When bringing one of these dogs home, it’s important to provide them with lots of exercise and things to do. You’ll notice that any coloration of Border Collie will run for hours, play constantly, and try to keep themselves occupied. Don’t bring one of these dogs home if you don’t have the space, time, and energy to keep up with them.
3. Red Border Collies Will Herd Everything
Herding is in their blood. When a Red Border Collie becomes a pet, their natural mentality doesn’t go away. You may find your Red Border Collie attempting to herd the children of the house, other pets, and even strangers. They like order and will do their best to ensure things are on the up and up.
Does a Red Border Collie Make a Good Pet?
Yes, Red Border Collies make excellent pets if you have the energy to keep up with them and an area to let them run. These dogs are extremely loyal and loving to their families and will stay by your side. However, with all the energy they possess, they need an outlet. A big backyard or farmland is ideal. This will give them a place to run for hours and play as they want. You should also be prepared to train your Red Border Collie early in life. If not, they may get a bit naughty and try to make you think they are the smartest ones in the house.
Conclusion
The Red Border Collie is a unique beauty that many people dream of sharing their lives with. If you’re lucky enough to encounter one of these amazing dogs, remember the event. If you happen to bring one into your home, you’ll quickly find out there is so much more to these amazing dogs than just their looks.
See also:
- Lilac Border Collie: Info & Pictures
- How to Get Rabbit Pee Out of a Mattress: 6 Expert Tips & Tricks
Featured Image Credit: volofin, Shutterstock
