The Modern Bark | Dog Training Tips

The Border Collie Double Coat The Border collie is a medium-sized dog breed with a striking double coat.   Long, slick weather-resistant guard hairs provide protection against rain and snow, while the downy undercoat provides insulation from cold, as well as protection against sun and heat. The guard hairs form a protective shell that allows air to circulate through the undercoat, keeping in warm air from the body’s heat during winter months, while allowing cool air to circulate beneath on warmer days, protecting the skin from the sun’s rays.   Matted coats hamper the coats ability to provide insulation and proper air circulation. This is a breed that tolerates cold better than heat; in fact border collies are increasingly being used as lead dogs on sledding teams in Alaska and Canada. Conversely, these high drive dogs need to be monitored for over-heating on extremely warm days. Border Collie Coat Pattern The Border collie coat pattern is referred to as Iris...