We had a Border Collie whose name was Lucy. She was the ‘dog’ of my husband’s life! When we drove through England we stopped when we saw a man and his Collies playing ball in the front yard of the farm. Border Collies everywhere, it seems, love to play ball.  Next while in Scotland, we saw a Border Collie trials, doing their work and herding the sheep. The dog with the most faithful discipline and listening skill was the winner.  We also went to a farm that raised Border Collies and saw the training  of these incredible animals.  The young pups were introduced to herding with ducks and geese. Then we saw the older trained dogs work, herding.  I tell you this in case, you too might be in the British Isles and also love these dogs.  It is not in the guide book, and David was most persistent, asking most everywhere we went if anyone knew of where we could visit  working dogs . His persistence   was rewarded.

Just a little background. . . . Border Collies are continually named the “Smartest Dogs” on the planet. Well you might wonder, how are dogs tested for IQ?  Great question and I have an answer!  I dark blanket is put over the dog and time is counted until the dog escapes!   Border Collies are always first, German Shepherds are second and Standard Poodles are third.  Lucy, we estimated, had the vocabulary of a 2-3 year old child.  She didn’t speak obviously , but she understood and  she demanded both a huge amount of exercise and having her mind challenged .  We would hide the ball upstairs and she would “find it !”

So this post  is for Lucy , who enriched our life and is long gone to doggy heaven.  I also found this lovely Irish farmer with his wit and stories to show you these incredible dogs. . . . . working!

Anyone have some Border Collie stories?