Judging
When evaluating Border Collies in the show ring against a breed standard, the qualities that make the Border Collie the premiere sheep herding dog should be considered of primary importance. Border Collies' working style is different and unique from other herding breeds. Specifically, Border Collies use "eye" to control the stock. All Border Collies have some degree of eye, the amount depending on what lines they come from. When using their eye to move stock, Border Collies lower at least their heads, and often the entire front portion of their bodies, into a creeping or crouching position. Border Collies have the ability to drop to the ground instantaneously, which is called "clapping." Additionally, the amazing stopping, turning and general agility of the breed is unsurpassed.

It is only after the dog can meet the physical standards required for its job should other, non-functional traits be considered. But, some things that may be thought of as "cosmetic" actually have a working purpose. Pigmentation is one example - a well-pigmented dog is less likely to suffer sunburn. Even the white tip on the end of a tail carried in an upward swirl has a purpose. It is known as the "shepherd's lantern" because many times the tip of a tail would be all that would lead the shepherd home in the dark after a long day's work.

Border Collies historically have four distinct types. None of the types is preferred over the others. This can be confusing to those who are unfamiliar with the development of the breed. It is the judge's job to pick the best representative, regardless of its particular type, in the ring that day. A final lineup that includes a variety of type does not mean that the judge doesn't know what he or she is doing. Instead, it reflects judging that respects the range of variety acceptable in this breed. Only if two dogs are of equal quality should a judge then choose based upon any personal preference of type.

Herding instinct and ability cannot be assessed in the conformation ring, but the physical qualities that allow the dog to work can be. For instance, only a dog with a well-angulated, sound front will be able to crouch in true Border Collie fashion. This posture also requires the scapula to be further apart when the dog is standing than many other breeds. Because of the need for agile, fast turns, the Border Collie's length of body should be primarily in the ribcage, not in a long loin, which might be susceptible to injury. Border Collies should move out on a loose lead, with their head carried low. Correct movement covers ground efficiently, with good reach and drive, and minimum lift of feet. Finally, Border Collies must have moderate bone - light enough for speed, but substantial enough for stamina.



Following are some of the lovely dogs I've had the opportunity to judge.

Border Collie Club of Greater Los Angeles
Best Puppy in Sweepstakes
May 25, 2006
&
Santa Barbara Kennel Club
Best of Breed
August 26, 2006

Bennington County Kennel Club
Best of Breed
August 13, 2006
&
Northern Kentucky Kennel Club
Best Opposite Sex
March 15, 2007

Bennington County Kennel Club
Best Opposite Sex
August 13, 2006
&
Anderson Kennel Club
Best of Breed
August 20, 2006
&
Brandon Kennel Club of Mississippi
Best of Breed
December 17, 2006
&
Northern Kentucky Kennel Club
Best of Breed
March 15, 2007

Northern Kentucky Kennel Club
Winners Bitch & Best of Winners
March 15, 2007
&
BCSA National Specialty
Reserve Winners Bitch
October 18, 2008

I was very honored to judge the 2008 BCSA Border Collie National Specialty.
The entry included many outstanding Border Collies, and the depth of quality, especially in the Best of Breed lineup, was a testament to how far this breed has progressed within the 13 years since first being fully recognized by the AKC.

BCSA National Specialty
Best of Breed
October 18, 2008 "My Best of Breed went to a big, substantial dog who put his head down and moved with purpose and drive.
Well proportioned, good angles front and rear. Held his topline while moving
and covered ground through the length of his stride, not by moving fast."

BCSA National Specialty
Best Opposite Sex
October 18, 2008 "Really gave the BOB dog a run for his money. She just really put out, too.
Although a bit small, she covered a lot of ground and looked as though she could keep going forever."

BCSA National Specialty
Award of Merit
October 18, 2008 "Very substantial, beautiful length of neck, beautiful arch to his neck. Great angulation rear and front.
Beautiful proportion and moved gorgeously."

Where I Have Judged










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