Border Springer

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Border Springer is a cross between the Border Collie, a traditional sheep-herding dog, and the English Springer Spaniel, an English gun dog that is split between two types, field and show.

The Border Collie, considered the most intelligent dog breed today and long used by shepherds along the Angle-Scottish border, is a highly trainable, faithful dog that nevertheless is happiest doing its job, even if it means it is not always beside its master.

The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized dog that came from the same litter as Cocker Spaniels, and was originally used for hunting by flushing, or "springing" their game into the open. The English Springer Spaniel was eventually recognized as a separate breed, and there are small difference to distinguish it from its litter mate, as well as from the Welsh Springer, a similar, smaller breed.

Color

Solid colors and combinations are possible in the Border Springer. Common are black and brown tricolors, with either black or brown over a white base and tan markings, bi-colors such as black and white, and brown and white, blue or liver roan, Merle, and sable.

Coat

The Border Springer's double coat, its primary protection when working outdoors, is of short to moderate length, either straight or slight wavy. Texture is broken down into rough or smooth, but it is never an open coat, always tight and lying flat and close to the skin. The undercoat is a soft and dense, combining with the outer coat to render the Border Springer weather-proof, moisture-proof, and thorn-proof.

Personality

The Border Springer is a sweet, affectionate dog that nevertheless possesses a good store of energy and needs to be exercised daily at a fairly demanding level, especially if the Springer parent is of a field line, rather than a show one. It is a confident, sociable breed, friendly towards children, although alert and wary toward strangers, and might not get along too well with other dogs due to its string herding instinct. Other pets will be safe, especially if appearing smaller and weaker, except for birds, traditional quarry of the Springer.

Care

The Border Springer sheds twice a year, with one heavy shedding. Weekly brushing will keep the coat shiny and clean it of shed fur. Care should be taken around areas where there is feathering, as mats are likely with longer fur. Bathing is recommended only once a month. Ears should be regularly cleaned and dried, and nails clipped weekly.

Training

An easygoing and friendly dog, the Border Springer enjoys belonging to a family and the attention it gets from its owners. It is easily trained, although socialization should start as early as possible, to round out the dog's personality and get it used to different situations and places. It is happy learning and doing tricks, especially if often rewarded. Inactivity and boredom are its worst enemies, and frequent play and training sessions ensure a happy and well-behaved dog.

Activity

While not as hyperactive as some breeds, the Border Springer does have activity requirements on a daily basis. Otherwise, an under-stimulated, house-bound Border Springer can spell trouble for furniture or be constantly whining and tagging after its owner. Half an hour to an hour of vigorous activity, such as jogging, agility courses, or dog sports can help maintain both a healthy weight and disposition for the dog.