Other Quick Facts

• When you look at a Belgian Tervuren, your first impression is one of elegance. This is a medium-size dog with a square build, a wedge-shaped head carried proudly, dark-brown eyes that are slightly almond-shaped, prick ears, and an intelligent, questioning expression that indicates he’s always ready for action.
• The Belgian Tervuren has a double coat that is short on the head and the front of the legs. The opening of the ear is protected by tufts of hair. A collarette of longer hair surrounds the neck and is especially abundant on males. Other areas where the hair is longer are the back of the legs and the tail.
• A Belgian Tervuren’s coat is a beautiful rich fawn-to-russet mahogany with a black overlay, meaning the tip of each fawn hair is black. A Terv’s coat typically darkens with age.

The History of the Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervuren Temperament and Personality

What You Need To Know About Belgian Tervuren Health

The Basics of Belgian Tervuren Grooming

Finding a Belgian Tervuren

Choosing a Belgian Tervuren Breeder

Adopting a Dog From a Belgian Tervuren Rescue or Shelter 

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The Bergamasco has been bred to think for himself and is more of a working partner than a subordinate. He is intelligent enough to problem-solve, which may or may not be a positive characteristic, depending on what he decides to do.

The result is a patient, self-sufficient dog who has a deep connection with people. The Bergamasco has a particular affinity for children and appoints himself as their watcher. He is also an ideal dog for therapy visits to children who are in the hospital or have disabilities.

The Bergamasco is gentle with his family, and, in the absence of a flock, his primary job is to protect them. He is alert, always ready to bark an alarm or to step in and protect if he feels it’s necessary. These are great qualities, but it’s essential to teach him from puppyhood when it’s okay to exercise his protective nature and when to let you take charge. Early socialization and training are a necessary part of his upbringing to prevent him from becoming overly suspicious or fearful of anything new or different.

If you want a dog that will always obey you without question, the Bergamasco is probably not the right choice. He will respond to kind, firm, consistent training, but he can be independent and self-sufficient.

The Bergamasco will accept strangers once he has been introduced to them. If raised together, he gets along well with other pets.

Give this breed daily exercise in the form of a moderate to long walk or active play time. He can be a good competitor in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and rally and is a natural at hiking in the mountains.

While you might think of him as an outdoor dog, nothing could be farther from the truth. Bergamascos are devoted to their people. They should have access to a securely fenced yard, but when the family is home, the Bergamasco should be with them.

Other Quick Facts

• When you look at a Bergamasco, you will see a muscular dog with a large head whose slightly rectangular body is covered in a thickly matted coat made up of three types of hair. The hair on the head hangs over his large oval brown eyes, and he has a calm, attentive expression. His thick tail hangs down, curving slightly upward at the end.
• The Bergamasco’s coat comes in shades of gray and, rarely, solid black.

The History of the Bergamasco

This is an Italian sheepherding breed who takes his name from his hometown, Bergamo (although he is also known in other parts of the country). He is similar to other central European sheepdog breeds, including the Puli which shares his heavily matted coat.

After World War II, the Bergamasco was in danger of disappearing because there was less work for herding dogs. Fortunately, an Italian breeder, Dr. Maria Andreoli, stepped in and led the effort to save the breed.

The Bergamasco has not yet achieved full recognition from the American Kennel Club but is biding his time in the Miscellaneous Class.

Bergamasco Temperament and Personality

The Bergamasco could be described as an attentive, intelligent, patient, do-it-yourselfer. His heritage as a shepherding breed causes him to think and act for himself. He is an excellent companion and devoted to his family, especially children, but rest assured he has his own ideas on just about everything. He is a courageous guard, with a strong protective instinct, but is never aggressive. The Bergamasco is a good breed choice for a person who appreciates his self-sufficiency and ability to solve problems.

Bergamascos respond well to consistent positive training. A light hand is all that’s needed for this smart breed. The Bergamasco is very good at sussing people and situations out. He will look to you as a friend and for guidance, but probably won’t follow you with blind obedience. His breed standard describes him as “naturally stubborn” but in a good way —persevering until a task is done.

The Bergamasco is highly athletic, so plenty of exercise is important for his physical and mental health. He also requires a lot of space for activity and is not a good choice for apartment or condo living.

Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.

Speak with a reputable, experienced Bergamasco breeder. Describe exactly what you’re looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know about your lifestyle and personality. Choose a puppy whose parents have approachable personalities and who has been well socialized by the breeder from birth.

What You Need To Know About Bergamasco Health

All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit diseases. Run from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy, or who keeps puppies isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the frequency with which they occur.

That said, Bergamascos have a reputation for being healthy. No specific diseases are known to be associated with them, but the Bergamasco Sheepdog Club of America says breeders should obtain hip clearances on dogs before breeding them. Because they are so rare, popularity and overbreeding have yet to take a toll on their health, but it’s a good idea to ask breeders about the incidence of hip dysplasia, eye problems and gastric torsion.

Remember that after you’ve taken a new puppy into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Bergamasco at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to extend his life. Make the most of your preventive abilities to help ensure a healthier dog for life.

The Basics of Bergamasco Grooming

The Bergamasco’s coat is unusual in having three different types of hair in it (referred to as dog hair, goat hair, and wool) that weld together and felt into mats. After five or six years, the coat reaches the ground. Some of the hair acts like the visor on a baseball cap to protect his eyes from the sun, but he can see past it. That coat helps protect the Bergamasco against everything from wolf bites to mosquitoes. Most people with dog allergies do not react to the Bergamasco’s coat, but some who are allergic to wool or lanolin do react.

The coat is much easier to care for than you’d think, but when wet it can take on the odor of a wet wool sweater (don’t say you weren’t warned!). The flocking doesn’t extend to the skin, so it doesn’t cause skin irritation.

Caring for the Bergamasco’s coat is not necessarily difficult, but it does call for some specific approaches. Ask the breeder to show you how to care for the coat. Trim the hair around the mouth and clean the dog’s face after meals to help reduce the odor.

A common misconception is that the coat should not be brushed, but once the coat is formed, nothing will change it. Brushing is necessary to remove dirt.

The Bergamasco can have as many baths as other dogs, but shampoo is not recommended because it dissolves natural oils in the coat.

The rest is basic care. Trim the nails as needed, usually every few weeks. Keep the ears clean and dry to prevent bacterial and yeast infections. Brush the teeth frequently with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for overall health and fresh breath.

Finding a Bergamasco

Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind.

Choosing a Bergamasco Breeder

Finding a quality breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy and will have completed all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems. She is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than making big bucks.

Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances, and what the dogs are like to live with. They will come back at you with questions of their own about what you’re looking for in a dog and what kind of life you plan to provide. A good breeder can tell you about the history of the breed, explain why one puppy is considered pet quality while another is not, and discuss what health problems affect the breed. Remember, breeders who offer puppies at one price “with papers” and at a lower price “without papers” are unethical.

Look for more information about the Bergamasco and start your search for a good breeder at the website of the Bergamasco Sheepdog Club of America and the International Bergamasco Sheepdog Association. Choose a breeder who has agreed to abide by the BSCA’s code of ethics, which prohibits the sale of puppies to or through pet stores and calls for the breeder to obtain recommended health clearances on dogs before breeding them.

Avoid breeders who seem interested only in how quickly they can unload a puppy or whether your credit card will clear. You should also bear in mind that buying a puppy from websites that offer to ship your dog to you immediately can be a risky venture, as it leaves you no recourse if what you get isn’t exactly what you expected. Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run.

Lots of reputable breeders have websites, so how can you tell who’s good and who’s not? Red flags include an over-availability of puppies, multiple litters on the premises, a choice of any puppy, and the ability to pay online with a credit card. Quickie online purchases are convenient, but they are almost never associated with reputable breeders.

Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that old adage “let the buyer beware”. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations. There’s no 100% guaranteed way to make sure you’ll never purchase a sick puppy, but researching the breed (so you know what to expect), checking out the facility (to identify unhealthy conditions or sick animals), and asking the right questions can reduce the chances of heading into a disastrous situation. And don’t forget to ask your veterinarian, who can often refer you to a reputable breeder, breed rescue organization, or other reliable source for healthy puppies. 

The cost of a Bergamasco puppy varies depending on the breeder’s locale, whether the pup is male or female, what titles his parents have, and whether he is best suited for the show ring or a pet home. The puppy you buy should have been raised in a clean home environment, from parents with health clearances and conformation (show). Ideally, you should see working titles to prove that they are good specimens of the breed. Puppies should be temperament tested, vetted, dewormed, and socialized to give them a healthy, confident start in life. 

Before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Bergamasco might better suit your needs and lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort. An adult Bergamasco may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive, and demanding than a puppy. With an adult, you know more about what you’re getting in terms of personality and health and you can find adults through breeders or shelters. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that.

Adopting a Dog From a Bergamasco Rescue or Shelter 

There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. Here is how to get started.

1. Use the Web

Sites like Petfinder.com can have you searching for a Bergamasco in your area in no time flat. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests (housetraining status, for example) or very general (all the Bergamasco s available on Petfinder across the country). AnimalShelter can help you find animal rescue groups in your area. Also some local newspapers have “pets looking for homes” sections you can review.

Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears.

2. Reach Out to Local Experts

Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Bergamasco. That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations.

3. Talk to Breed Rescue

Most people who love Bergamascos love all Bergamascos. That’s why breed clubs have rescue organizations devoted to taking care of homeless dogs. The Bergamasco Sheepdog Club of America can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Bergamasco rescues in your area.

The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Bergamasco home for a trial to see what the experience is like.

4. Key Questions to Ask

You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include:

What is his energy level?

How is he around other animals?

How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children?

What is his personality like?

What is his age?

Is he housetrained?

Has he ever bitten or hurt anyone that they know of?

Are there any known health issues?

Wherever you acquire your Bergamasco, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter, or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides. Petfinder offers an Adopters Bill of Rights that helps you understand what you can consider normal and appropriate when you get a dog from a shelter. In states with “puppy lemon laws,” be sure you and the person you get the dog from both understand your rights and recourses.

Puppy or adult, a breeder purchase or a rescue, take your Bergamasco to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Your veterinarian will be able to spot problems and will work with you to set up a preventive regimen that will help you avoid many health issues.

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Other Quick Facts

• Pyrenean Shepherds excel at dog sports and are often seen in the agility ring. They are also great at learning tricks.
• The Pyr Shep’s coat comes in several colors and patterns. It can be any shade of fawn from tan to copper, sometimes with a black overlay; all shades of gray; merle; brindle; black; and black with white markings.

The History of Pyrenean Shepherds

Pyrenean Shepherd Temperament and Personality

What You Need to Know About Pyrenean Shepherd Health

Finding a Pyrenean Shepherd

Choosing a Pyrenean Shepherd Breeder

Adopting a Dog From a Pyrenean Shepherd Rescue or Shelter

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Other Quick Facts

• The Sheltie is among the top 20 breeds registered by the AKC.
• Shelties have strong herding instinct and do well in herding instinct tests and herding trials. They are also hotshots at agility, obedience, rally, and tracking.

The History of Shetland Sheepdogs

Shetland Sheepdog Personality and Temperament

What You Need to Know About Shetland Sheepdog Health

The Basics of Shetland Sheepdog Grooming

Finding a Shetland Sheepdog

Choosing a Shetland Sheepdog Breeder

Adopting a Dog From a Shetland Sheepdog Rescue or Shelter

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Other Quick Facts

• Australian Cattle Dogs have a strong sense of adventure and they think they are invincible. Be prepared for your dog to incur a lot of injuries. Fortunately, he is truly tough, but living with him and wondering how he will hurt himself next can be nervewracking. Get used to it.
• The Australian Cattle Dog is compact but powerful. He has a broad skull, muscular cheeks, a black nose, dark-brown eyes that glint in suspicion when a stranger approaches, medium-size prick ears, and strong teeth for biting cows. The muscular neck leads into a rectangular body with strong shoulders and a deep chest. The tail hangs in a slight curve when the dog is at rest, which doesn’t happen very often.
• The ACD’s double coat is smooth and comes in two colors: blue and red speckle. The blue coat can be solid, mottled or speckled, with or without black, blue or tan markings on the head and tan markings elsewhere on the body. The red speckle coat is even all over the body, with or without darker red markings on the head.

The History of Australian Cattle Dogs

Australian Cattle Dog Temperament and Personality

What You Need To Know About Australian Cattle Dog Health

The Basics of Australian Cattle Dog Grooming

Choosing a Australian Cattle Dog Breeder

Adopting a Dog from Australian Cattle Dog Rescue or a Shelter

• What is his energy level?
• How is he around other animals?
• How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children?
• What is his personality like?
• What is his age?
• Is he housetrained?
• Has he ever bitten or hurt anyone that they know of?
• Are there any known health issues?

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Other Quick Facts

The History of Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherd Temperament and Personality

What You Need to Know About Australian Shepherd Health

The Basics of Australian Shepherd Grooming

Finding an Australian Shepherd

Choosing an Australian Shepherd Breeder

Adopting a Dog from an Australian Shepherd Rescue or Shelter

The post Australian Shepherd appeared first on Vetstreet.

Other Quick Facts

• When you look at a Laekenois, you see a dog with a squarish body who carries his head proudly. He has dark brown eyes, erect triangular ears, and a wiry coat.
• The Laekenois never seems to tire, moving with a smooth, easy gait. Because of his herding heritage, he’s usually seen moving in a circle or curve rather than a straight line, a sign of his instinct to keep watch over and direct his flock.

The History of the Laekenois

Belgian Laekenois Temperament and Personality

What You Need To Know About Belgian Laekenois Health

The Basics of Belgian Laekenois Grooming

Finding a Belgian Laekenois

Choosing a Laekenois Breeder

Adopting a Dog from Laekenois Rescue or a Shelter

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Quick Facts

• Berger is the French word for shepherd, and Picardy is the region in France where the breed originated.
• One of the Picard’s distinctive characteristics is his J-shaped tail, reminiscent of a shepherd’s crook.
• Picard puppies typically go to their new homes at 12 weeks of age, but breeders may place them earlier depending on the individual puppy and family situation.
• The Berger Picard’s coat may be fawn or brindle. Some fawn-colored dogs have charcoal-gray trim on the outer edges of the ears and gray shading, or underlay, on the head and body. Brindle dogs can be any base color, ranging from light gray or fawn to black, with stripes or small patches of black, brown, red, gray or fawn.

The History of Berger Picards

Berger Picard Temperament and Personality

What You Need to Know About Berger Picard Health

• Hip dysplasia: Hip evaluation, with results registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or CHIC.
• Eyes: Examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, with results registered with the OFA.
• DNA repository: Blood sample stored with the OFA or CHIC.
• Optional: It’s a plus but not a must if your pup’s parents have had one or more of the following tests: OFA cardiac (heart) evaluation, OFA elbow dysplasia evaluation, or OFA thyroid evaluation from an approved laboratory.

The Basics of Berger Picard Grooming

Finding a Berger Picard

Choosing a Berger Picard Breeder

Adopting a Dog From a Berger Picard Rescue or Shelter

• What is his energy level?
• How is he around other animals?
• How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children?
• What is his personality like?
• What is his age?
• Is he housetrained?
• Has he ever bitten or hurt anyone that they know of?
• Are there any known health issues?

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Other Quick Facts

• The Belgian Sheepdog is also known as the Groenendael. He is the long-coated black variety of the four Belgian herding breeds. In Europe, the four Belgian Shepherd breeds are also known collectively as Chiens de Berger (bair-zhay) Belge (belzh).
• When you look at a Belgian Sheepdog, you see an elegant dog with a square body, wedge-shaped head, triangular ears, dark brown eyes, and a long black coat with especially abundant hair around the neck, on the back of the legs, and on the tail.

The History of the Belgian Sheepdog

Belgian Sheepdog Temperament and Personality

What You Need To Know About Belgian Sheepdog Health

The Basics of Belgian Sheepdog Grooming

Finding a Belgian Sheepdog

Choosing a Belgian Sheepdog Breeder

Adopting a Dog from Belgian Sheepdog Rescue or a Shelter

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The Beauceron is not an appropriate choice for a first-time dog owner. He is smart, assertive, and independent (read stubborn). He is an excellent watchdog and has the size and ability to defend his home and family if needed. Conversely he needs a firm hand to ensure he has appropriate training and socialization. He matures slowly and will be puppylike until he is about 3 years old.

When the Beauceron is raised with children, he can be good with them. But don’t forget that he is a herding breed and may chase or nip at children. This should never be permitted. He is best suited to a family with older children who can understand how to treat him with respect.

It's possible that a Beauceron will get along with cats. He has a strong prey drive and will likely chase cats or other small furry animals outdoors, but some Beaucerons can get along well with indoor cats if they have been raised with them.

It’s almost impossible to wear out a Beauceron. Choose this breed only if you are a high-energy person who enjoys active daily exercise such as running, bicycling, and hiking and can take your dog with you. He’s also well suited to just about any dog sport, including agility, flyball, herding, obedience, rally, search and rescue, and tracking. A bored Beauceron is a destructive Beauceron.

Begin socialization and training early to make the most of the Beauceron’s intelligence, rapid learning ability, and drive. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards. Be prepared for him to push back when you ask him to do something, testing whether you really mean what you say. It’s essential to be firm, fair, and consistent. Never respond with harsh treatment or force.

The Beauceron can be aggressive toward dogs or other animals he doesn’t know. If your home has a yard, it should be securely fenced to prevent the dog from leaving the premises as well as to prevent other dogs from coming onto the property and causing trouble. That doesn’t mean an underground electronic fence. If the Beauceron wants to leave the yard, a shock isn’t going to stop him.

This is an indoor/outdoor dog. Though the Beauceron should certainly have access to a securely fenced yard, he should be with his family when they are home.

Brush the Beauceron’s double coat weekly to remove dead hair. He sheds small amounts year-round and more heavily in spring and fall. He will need more frequent brushing during seasonal shedding periods to control the amount of loose hair floating around your house. Trim his nails as needed, and keep his ears clean and dry to prevent infections. Good dental hygiene is also important.

Other Quick Facts

• The Beauceron is a “mouthy” dog. Be sure you have plenty of tough toys on hand for him to carry around and chew on. Don’t let him gnaw on your hands, feet, or other body parts.

The History of the Beauceron

Little is known of the Beauceron’s history. The earliest mention of a dog that sounds like the Beauceron dates to 1578. The breed stands out for being the largest of the French sheepdogs. Besides sheep, he also herded cattle and guarded the home. His name comes from the area surrounding Paris known as La Beauce.

During the late 19th century, many dog clubs and organizations were formed, including the Society Central Canine in 1882. It registered the first Berger de Beauce in 1893, and soon a breed standard was written to set down the dog’s characteristics. The Club des Amis du Beauceron was formed in 1922.

The Beauceron’s work as a sheepdog began to disappear with the changes wrought by modern society, but he easily moved into police and military work and served heroically during both world wars as a messenger dog, trail finder, and mine detector. Beaucerons still perform that type of work today.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Beauceron in 2007. Today the breed ranks 153rd among the dogs registered by the AKC.

Beauceron Temperament and Personality

The Beauceron is a confident, smart, strong-willed dog. He is protective of his family and territory, and usually reserved with strangers. He is easily trained, but often shows his independent side. Though self-assured, the Beauceron should not be aggressive. He is gentle, but fearless.

The Beauceron is loyal to his people. When he is raised with children, he can be good with them. Don’t forget that he is a herding breed and might chase or nip at children. This should never be permitted. He is best suited to a family with older children who can understand how to treat him with respect.

The Beauceron might get along with cats. He has a strong prey drive and will likely chase cats or other small furry animals outdoors, but some Beaucerons can get along well with indoor cats if they have been raised with them. They can be aggressive toward dogs or other animals they don’t know.

It’s almost impossible to wear out a Beauceron. Choose this breed only if you are a high-energy person yourself who enjoys active daily exercise such as running, bicycling, and hiking and can take your dog with you. He’s also well suited to just about any dog sport, including agility, flyball, herding, obedience, rally, search and rescue, and tracking. A bored Beauceron is a destructive Beauceron.

Begin socialization and training early to make the most of the Beauceron’s intelligence, rapid learning ability, and drive. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards. Remember that he is an independent thinker. Be prepared for him to push back when you ask him to do something, testing whether you really mean what you say. It’s essential to be firm, fair, and consistent. Never use harsh treatment or force.  

Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.

Talk with a reputable, experienced Beauceron breeder. Describe exactly what you’re looking for in a canine companion and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see their puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. Choose a puppy whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized by the breeder from birth.

What You Need To Know About Beauceron Health

All purebred dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines.

Health conditions that have been seen in the Beauceron include allergies and dermatomyositis, an inflammatory condition that can affect the skin, muscles, blood vessels and fat. They may also be prone to gastric torsion.

The American Beauceron Club participates in the Canine Health Information Center, a health database. Before individual Beaucerons can be CHIC certified, breeders must submit hip and heart evaluations from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and eye test results from the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). PennHip certification of hips is also accepted. The cardiac exam must be performed by a board-certified cardiologist and include an echocardiogram. Eye exams must be performed annually beginning at age 2 and continue until the dog is 8 years old. Optional CHIC test results that can be submitted are OFA elbow and thyroid evaluations and an OFA test for von Willebrand’s disease. According to CHIC recommendations, the thyroid test should be done annually until the dog is 5 years old and then every two years.

Breeders must agree to have all test results, positive or negative, published in the CHIC database. A dog need not receive good or even passing scores on the evaluations to obtain a CHIC number, so CHIC registration alone is not proof of soundness or absence of disease, but all test results are posted on the CHIC website and can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents.

Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed. Having the dogs vet checked is not a substitute for genetic health testing.

Remember that after you’ve taken a new puppy into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the more common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Beauceron at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to extend his life. Make the most of diet and exercise to help ensure a healthier dog for life.

The Basics of Beauceron Grooming

When it comes to grooming, the Beauceron is an easy keeper thanks to his short, double coat. A bath every three to four months with a mild shampoo is all that is needed. Brush his sleek coat with a natural bristle brush or rubber hound mitt several times a week to remove dead hair.

The Beauceron sheds small amounts year-round and more heavily in spring and fall. He will need more frequent brushing during seasonal shedding periods to control the amount of loose hair floating around your house.

The rest is basic care. His ears need to be checked every week and cleaned if needed. Trim his toenails once a month. Brush the teeth frequently for good overall health and fresh breath.

Finding a Beauceron

Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run. Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind.

Choosing a Beauceron Breeder

Finding a good breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy and will, without question, have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems as much as possible. She is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than making big bucks.

Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances, and what the dogs are like to live with, and come right back at you with questions of their own about what you’re looking for in a dog and what kind of life you can provide for him. A good breeder can tell you about the history of the breed, explain why one puppy is considered pet quality while another is not, and discuss what health problems affect the breed and the steps she takes take to avoid those problems. And remember that breeders who offer puppies at one price “with papers” and at a lower price “without papers” are unethical.

Look for more information about the Beauceron and start your search for a good breeder on the website of the American Beauceron Club. Choose a breeder who has agreed to abide by the ABC’s code of ethics, which prohibits the sale of puppies to or through pet stores, calls for the breeder to obtain recommended health clearances on dogs before breeding them, and says breeders should be willing to take back dogs they have bred at any time in their lives for any reason.

Avoid breeders who seem interested only in how quickly they can unload a puppy on you and whether your credit card will go through. You should also bear in mind that buying a puppy from a website that offers to ship your dog to you immediately can be a risky venture, as it leaves you no recourse if what you get isn’t exactly what you expected.

Lots of reputable breeders have websites, so how can you tell who’s good and who’s not? Red flags include puppies always being available, multiple litters on the premises, having your choice of any puppy, and the ability to pay online with a credit card. Quickie online purchases are convenient, but they are almost never associated with reputable breeders.

Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that old adage “let the buyer beware”. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations. There’s no 100% guaranteed way to make sure you’ll never purchase a sick puppy, but researching the breed (so you know what to expect), checking out the facility (to identify unhealthy conditions or sick animals), and asking the right questions can reduce the chances of heading into a disastrous situation. And don’t forget to ask your veterinarian, who can often refer you to a reputable breeder, breed rescue organization, or other reliable source for healthy puppies. 

The cost of a Beauceron puppy varies depending on the breeder’s locale, whether the pup is male or female, what titles his parents have, and whether he is best suited for the show ring or a pet home. The puppy you buy should have been raised in a clean home environment, from parents with health clearances and conformation (show) and, ideally, working titles to prove that they are good specimens of the breed. Puppies should be temperament tested, vetted, dewormed, and socialized to give them a healthy, confident start in life. 

And before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Beauceron might better suit your needs and lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort before they grow up to become the dogs of your dreams. An adult Beauceron may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive, and demanding than a puppy. With an adult, you know more about what you’re getting in terms of personality and health and you can find adults through breeders or shelters. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that.

Adopting a Dog From a Beauceron Rescue or Shelter

There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. Here is how to get started.

1. Use the Web

Sites like Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com can have you searching for a Beauceron in your area in no time flat. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests (housetraining status, for example) or very general (all the Beauceron available on Petfinder across the country). AnimalShelter.org can help you find animal rescue groups in your area. Also some local newspapers have “pets looking for homes” sections you can review.

Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears.

2. Reach Out to Local Experts

Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Beauceron.That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations.

3. Talk to Breed Rescue

Most people who Beauceron love all Beauceron. That’s why breed clubs have rescue organizations devoted to taking care of homeless dogs. The American Beauceron Club can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Beauceron rescues in your area.

The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Beauceron home for a trial to see what the experience is like.

4. Key Questions to Ask

You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include:

What is his energy level?

How is he around other animals?

How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children?

What is his personality like?

What is his age?

Is he housetrained?

Has he ever bitten or hurt anyone that they know of?

Are there any known health issues?

Wherever you acquire your Beauceron, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter, or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides. Petfinder offers an Adopters Bill of Rights that helps you understand what you can consider normal and appropriate when you get a dog from a shelter. In states with puppy lemon laws, be sure you and the person you get the dog from both understand your rights and recourses.

Puppy or adult, a breeder purchase or a rescue, take your Beauceron to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Your veterinarian will be able to spot problems and will work with you to set up a preventive regimen that will help you avoid many health issues.

The post Beauceron appeared first on Vetstreet.

A good Border Collie can be the companion of a lifetime, but only if he is paired with a clever owner who can keep him busy with dog sports — agility, flyball, flying disc games, herding trials, obedience, tracking — or who will teach him to do chores around the house or farm. If you want the talented Border Collie you’ve seen starring on the silver screen, be aware that it takes a lot of time and effort to keep him occupied to his satisfaction.

If you’re ready to provide loving leadership to your dog, train him consistently and fairly, and give him plenty of exercise and an outlet for his considerable intelligence, then yes, the Border Collie can be right for you.

Don’t underestimate that intelligence, either. This is among the smartest of all dog breeds, and one whose owners need to pay attention lest they find themselves outsmarted. Expecting a Border Collie to spend his days in the backyard and his evenings keeping you company while you watch your favorite TV shows is a sure way to create a barking, bored, destructive dog instead of the calm, well-behaved, loyal companion you thought you were bringing into your home.

The Border Collie’s herding traits — an intense stare, crouching, creeping movement, and gathering behavior — will be turned on children, other pets, and vehicles if the dog isn’t provided with guidance, training and an outlet for his instinct to round up and bring in people or objects in motion. Never let this go uncorrected, and then redirect the behavior by giving your Border Collie demanding and interesting tasks or games that will provide him with exercise and mental stimulation.

Like most herding breeds, which have an inborn protective streak, the BC can be wary of strangers. Early and frequent socialization is essential to prevent him from becoming shy or aggressive in the presence of people he doesn’t know. He is also highly sensitive to sound and may develop noise phobias, especially to thunderstorms, if he is not accustomed to loud or unexpected noises. On the plus side, he’s an excellent watchdog and will always alert you to anything or anyone out of the ordinary.

Because of these characteristics, it’s essential to purchase a Border Collie from a breeder whose stock is temperamentally sound and who understands the importance of early exposure to many different people, noises and situations that come with life in a family home. Run far away from breeders who raise their pups in a barn or a pen out in the backyard. A Border Collie that is to be a family companion needs plenty of socialization.

Although he loves the great outdoors, the BC is by no means a yard dog. He is bred to work in partnership with people. If your Border Collie is a family pet, he needs to live indoors. Otherwise, he’ll be lonely, bored and destructive – and less, rather than more, likely to warn you of trouble.

Alert watchdogs, Border Collies can be barkers, so help yours develop appropriate barking behavior when young so it doesn’t become a nuisance later on.

You should also know that there are two types of Border Collies: those bred strictly for their herding talents and those bred for the show ring and AKC performance events. During most of the 20th century, BC breeders chose dogs based on their working ability, and the dogs varied widely in appearance. But in 1995, the AKC recognized the Border Collie — much to the fury of many of its adherents — and since then the breed has split into show and working lines.

The show dogs tend to be small and blocky with heavy coats, while the herding dogs are more diverse in size, coat type and overall appearance. Breeders who select for herding ability would rather have their dogs recognized for the way they work than the way they look.

All of that is to say that it’s important to know the dog’s background before purchasing a puppy. If you plan to actually work stock with your Border Collie, you will want a puppy from working lines. A Border Collie from show lines may still have a strong herding instinct, but even dogs that do well in AKC herding trials are not generally considered good enough to do real work on farms. They will, however, be super competitors in agility, obedience and other dog sports.

The black-and-white Border Collie is most familiar, but the breed comes in all colors and combinations of colors and markings. They can be solid, bi-color, tri-color, merle and sable. They frequently have white markings that are clear or ticked or random white patches on the body and head. Avoid Border Collies that are primarily white. The gene for deafness is linked to white coloration.

Other Quick Facts

• Border Collies are frighteningly smart, active workaholics who must have a job that can be as simple as chasing a tennis ball or as demanding as training for something like herding, agility obedience, or freestyle. What the job is doesn’t matter so much as that the Border has a job.
• The Border is an excellent watchdog and will alert you to the arrival of the letter carrier, a burglar, or a squirrel. Some can become nuisance barkers.
• Borders are very people-oriented and are wonderful family dogs.
• Some Borders are not good with other dogs or cats, and some are great.
• Border Collies are the best working breed in the world for sheepherding. They also excel at performance activities such as agility, obedience, flyball, and freestyle, among others.

The History of Border Collies

The classic working farm dog, the Border Collie originated in the border country between Scotland and England. Farmers bred their own individual varieties of sheepdogs for the hilly area. As Borders often tended their flock alone, they had to think independently and be able to run around 50 miles a day in hilly country.

At the royal castle in Balmoral, Queen Victoria fell in love with a Collie, and that’s the point at which the differences between today’s Collie and Border Collie began to form. Soon after that, sheepdog trials began in 1876 when 100 wild Welsh sheep were brought to London for a demonstration. Around the turn of the last century, what we think of as a Border Collie arrived. However, the name Border Collie didn’t come into use until after World War I when they needed to differentiate working and show dogs.

Border Collies from good working lines are still the best sheepherding dogs in the world, and highly prized for their work ethic and capabilities. The Border Collie was admitted to the ranks of American Kennel Club breeds in 1995, much to the dismay of many of his adherents. Since then, the breed has split into show and working lines. The Border Collie ranks 47^th among the breeds registered by the AKC, up from 64^th in 2000. Working Border Collies remain popular with shepherds, farmers and ranchers everywhere.

Border Collie Temperament and Personality

Borders will herd anything: the family, the kids playing in the yard, ducklings, or a bag of apples you’ve dropped. Be aware that he will herd or chase after cars and bicycles. Furthermore, he will follow you around the house unceasingly. Borders form tight bonds with their family and want to be with them every second they can.

A Border Collie can excel at any performance activity: sheepherding, agility, obedience, flyball, freestyle, and Frisbee. The Border can also do search and rescue work. His drive, ease of training, and desire to please often put him at the top of the list for serious competitors in dog sports.

Border Collies can focus like nobody’s business. One feature of the Border Collie is his use of “eye,” a hypnotic stare that compels sheep to move and turn. The “eye” is actually a measure of how much the Border Collie can concentrate on the sheep. A Border will have no qualms whatsoever using it on you to get what he wants.

Borders tend to have many seemingly compulsive behaviors, such as chasing bugs, waiting for the cat to wake up, or waiting for the dishwasher cycle to end. It can seem like Borders are a little crazy. Border owners find this kind of thing amusing and take it in stride. However, chasing lights and shadows can be a true compulsive problem, one about which studies are conducted. Behaviors are defined as compulsive when they have no purpose. Chasing a Frisbee has a purpose, but chasing light and shadows does not. Other compulsive Border behaviors include twirling in circles constantly or bouncing up and down. This type of compulsive behavior (as opposed to herding) usually occurs in stressed-out Borders or those without sufficient mental stimulation.

Because they are herding dogs, Borders usually get along with other animals. Whether other animals will enjoy living with a Border is another question. Cats can live with some Border Collies, but the cat has to be pretty darn tolerant of being herded and checked on all the time. Some cats end up liking it, and some won’t put up with it. Smart cats can deduce that it is their movement that sets the herding activity in motion, so if they stay still, the Border Collie will leave. Some cats will swipe at the Border Collie and then run to initiate some play. Some Borders have such strong prey drives that cats will never be safe. If you have or want a cat, consider adopting an adult Border that can be cat tested.

You could keep a Border Collie in an apartment as long as you are extremely physically active, doing something your dog can also do, such as training for marathons or cycling races. If you’re not that active, a BC in an apartment is a truly bad idea.

Any dog, no matter how nice, can develop obnoxious levels of barking, digging, countersurfing and other undesirable behaviors if he is bored, untrained or unsupervised. With a Border Collie, multiply the destructive potential by a factor of 10. And any dog can be a trial to live with during adolescence. In the case of the Border Collie, the “teen” years can start at four months and continue until the dog is about 16 months old.

Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.

Talk to the breeder, describe exactly what you’re looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality.

The perfect Border Collie doesn’t spring fully formed from the whelping box. He’s a product of his background and breeding. Whatever you want from a Border, look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppyhood.

What You Need to Know About Border Collie Health

All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines.

The Border Collie can develop certain healthproblems. Here’s a brief rundown of what you should know.

A spectacularly hardy dog, the Border Collie nonetheless can be affected by some genetic diseases. One of these is hip dysplasia, a genetic malformation of the hip socket. Dogs with hip dysplasia may appear perfectly normal, but because the head of the thigh bone doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket, over time the bone begins to wear away. The constant inflammation leads to arthritis.

Mild cases can be managed for a time with pain medication, but severe cases may require expensive surgical repair in the form of a total hip replacement. Untreated, the dog will suffer pain and lameness. This condition is usually diagnosed by X-rays and manual examination of the hips. It’s impossible to know if a dog has hip dysplasia simply from examining him or watching him move. Only obtain a puppy whose parents were both evaluated as having normal hips after the age of 2 by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the University of Pennsylvania (PennHIP).

Border Collies are also affected by Collie Eye Anomaly, a group of eye disorders ranging form minor to serious. They are present at birth, and may be detected in puppies as early as 5 to 8 weeks of age. Fortunately, there is a genetic test to determine if a dog is clear of CEA or carries it. Make sure your puppy’s breeder has had the eyes of all the dogs in the litter tested before selling them, and that the parents were tested as well. Never buy a puppy from a breeder who has not done this testing. Border Collies do not suffer from a high incidence of other eye problems, but a breeder who has obtained Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) clearances on her breeding animals is to be preferred over one who has not.

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (CL) and trapped neutrophil syndrome (TNS) are two fatal genetic disorders of the Border Collie. Fortunately, there are DNA tests that allow breeders to screen for them, so only obtain your puppy from a breeder who has cleared the parents of CL and TNS.

Epilepsy also occurs in the breed. It usually appears early in life, and there is currently no screening test for seizure disorders in Border Collies.

Not all of these conditions are detectable in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether an animal will be free of these maladies, which is why you must find a reputable breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible.  They should be able to produce independent certification that the parents of the dog (and grandparents, etc.) have been screened for common defects and deemed healthy for breeding. That’s where health registries come in.

The Border Collie Society of America participates in the Canine Health Information Center. Before individual Border Collies are issued a CHIC number, the breeder must submit hip evaluations from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) or PennHIP; a CERF eye clearance; and a DNA sample for the OFA/CHIC DNA Repository. Optional test results that can be submitted are OFA elbow, shoulder, heart and thyroid evaluations; an OFA evaluation for congenital deafness based on the BAER test; an Optigen CEA test result registered with OFA; an Optigen CL test result registered with OFA; and a TNS test result.

Breeders must agree to have all test results, positive or negative, published in the CHIC database. A dog need not receive good or even passing scores on the evaluations to obtain a CHIC number, so CHIC registration alone is not proof of soundness or absence of disease, but all test results are posted on the CHIC website and can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents. If the breeder tells you she doesn’t need to do those tests because she’s never had problems in her lines and her dogs have been “vet checked,” then you should go find a breeder who is more rigorous about genetic testing.

A good breeder will be able to discuss the prevalence of all health problems in her dogs’ lines, those with and without genetic screening tests, and help puppy buyers make an informed decision about health risks to their dog.

Careful breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas and a puppy develops one of these diseases despite good breeding practices. Advances in veterinary medicine mean that in most cases the dogs can still live a good life. If you’re getting a puppy, ask the breeder about the ages of the dogs in her lines and what they died of.

Remember that after you’ve taken a new puppy into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Border Collie at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to extend his life. Make the most of your preventive abilities to help ensure a healthier dog for life.

The Basics of Border Collie Grooming

The Border Collie has a double coat that comes in two types. One is short and smooth, sometimes with a bit of feathering on the front legs. The other, known as a rough coat, is medium to long with hair that is flat or slightly wavy. Either way, expect to brush a Border Collie once or twice a week to remove dead hair and keep shedding to a minimum.

Otherwise, just keep his ears clean and bathe him if he gets dirty. The rest is basic care. Trim the nails as needed. Active Border Collies often wear their nails down naturally, but it’s a good idea to check them weekly to see if they need a trim. Brush the teeth frequently for overall good health and fresh breath.

Finding a Border Collie

Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind.

Choosing a Border Collie Breeder

Finding a good breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy, and will without question have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems as much as is possible. He or she is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than in making big bucks.

Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances and what the dogs are like to live with and come right back at you with questions of their own about what you’re looking for in a dog and what kind of life you can provide for him. A good breeder can tell you about the history of the breed, explain why one puppy is considered pet quality while another is not, and discuss what health problems affect the breed and the steps she takes take to avoid those problems.

Start your search for more information about the breed at the website of the breed’s AKC parent club, the Border Collie Society of America. Other good sources of information about the BC are the American Border Collie Association and the United States Border Collie Club, both of which focus on the working Border Collie. They are the place to go if you want to find a Border with real-life working ability. Even if you don’t want a working Border, you should still check out their websites, which have great information on finding a breeder and living with a Border. If you are looking for a Border from show lines, find a breeder who is a member in good standing of the BCSA and who has agreed to abide by the terms of its code of ethics, which include screening all dogs being bred for genetic diseases, selling only with a written contract and guaranteeing a home for any dog they breed if the owner becomes unable to keep him.

Choose a breeder who is not only willing but insists on being a resource in helping you train and care for your new dog.

Avoid breeders who only seem interested in how quickly they can unload a puppy on you and whether your credit card will go through. You should also bear in mind that buying a puppy from websites that offer to ship your dog to you immediately can be a risky venture, as it leaves you no recourse if what you get isn’t exactly what you expected. Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run.

Lots of reputable breeders have websites, so how can you tell who’s good and who’s not? Red flags include puppies always being available, multiple litters on the premises, having your choice of any puppy, and the ability to pay online with a credit card. Those things are convenient, but they are almost never associated with reputable breeders.

Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that old adage “let the buyer beware”. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations. There’s no 100% guaranteed way to make sure you’ll never purchase a sick puppy, but researching the breed (so you know what to expect), checking out the facility (to identify unhealthy conditions or sick animals), and asking the right questions can reduce the chances of heading into a disastrous situation. And don’t forget to ask your veterinarian, who can often refer you to a reputable breeder, breed rescue organization, or other reliable sources for healthy puppies. 

The cost of a Border Collie puppy varies depending on his place of origin, whether he is male or female, what titles his parents have, and whether he is best suited for the show ring, a working home or a pet home. The puppy you buy should have been raised in a clean home environment, from parents with health clearances and conformation (show) and, ideally, herding titles to prove that they are good specimens of the breed. Puppies should be temperament tested, vetted, dewormed, and socialized to give them a healthy, confident start in life.

Before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Border Collie might better suit your needs and lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort before they grow up to become the dog of your dreams. An adult may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive and demanding than a puppy. With an adult, you know more about what you’re getting in terms of personality and health and you can find adults through breeders or shelters. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that.

Adopting a Dog from a Border Collie Rescue or Shelter

There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. Here is how to get started.

Use the Web

Sites like Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com can have you searching for a Border Collie in your area in no time flat. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests (housetraining status, for example) or very general (all the Border Collies available on Petfinder across the country). AnimalShelter.org can help you find animal rescue groups in your area. Also some local newspapers have “pets looking for homes” sections you can review.

Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears.

Reach Out to Local Experts

Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Border Collie. That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations.

Talk to Breed Rescue

Networking can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Border Collie rescues in your area.  Most people who love Border Collies love all Border Collies. That’s why breed clubs have rescue organizations devoted to taking care of homeless dogs. The Border Collie Society of America’s rescue network can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Border Collie rescues in your area.

The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Border Collie home with you to see what the experience is like.

Key Questions to Ask

You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include:

• What is his energy level?
• How is he around other animals?
• How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children?
• What is his personality like?
• What is his age?
• Is he housetrained?
• Has he ever bitten or hurt anyone that they know of?
• Are there any known health issues?

Wherever you acquire your Border, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides. Petfinder offers an Adopters Bill of Rights that helps you understand what you can consider normal and appropriate when you get a dog from a shelter. In states with “puppy lemon laws,” be sure you and the person you get the dog from both understand your rights and recourses.

Puppy or adult, take your Border Collie to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Your veterinarian will be able to spot problems and will work with you to set up a preventive regimen that will help you avoid many health issues.

The post Border Collie appeared first on Vetstreet.

Other Quick Facts

• The Bouvier’s coat comes in several colors, ranging from fawn to black. You may also see brindle and salt-and-pepper coats. A small star on the chest is the only white allowed.
• Bouviers have had roles in movies, including Town and Country and A Dog of Flanders, a film about a boy and his beloved Bouvier.

The History of the Bouvier des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres Temperament and Personality

What You Need To Know About Bouvier des Flandres Health

The Basics of Bouvier des Flandres Grooming

Finding a Bouvier des Flandres

Choosing a Bouvier des Flandres Breeder

Adopting a Dog From a Bouvier des Flandres Rescue or Shelter

The post Bouvier des Flandres appeared first on Vetstreet.