Border Collies as Family Pets

Question
Hi,
4 weeks ago we purchased a border collie from a rescue centre.  He is now 16 weeks.  In so many ways he is adorable, but we have two problems.  Three times down he has growled and carried out a warning bite ( no pain but the growl was there ), when one of my daughters gently stroked him.  And he is obsessed with the cats.  We have been supervising all meeting and following the instructions from Gwen Baily the Perfect Puppy book, but this morning he actually got hold of one.  I have now read lots of Border Collie sites that say that  they cannot be pets, particulary with cats and children.  I have three gentle girls ages 5, 7 and 9 and two cats.  As much as we love Rolo, this information, plus his behaviour is making me very worried.  Thanks for any advice.

Answer
Hello Roz,

On rare ocassion you may find a Border Collie that makes a good pet.  But you are right, this is not a good family pet which you have purchased.  This dog needs to be worked, preferably by an experienced adult handler.  I would take the dog back to the rescue center, tell them exactly what kind of behavior you have witnessed in this dog and ask for a refund.  This dog is not a good match for your home.

Just my opinion.

Thank you for your question.

Ann Jordan
Border Collie Coach
BorderCollieCoach.com