We were thinking it might be time for a new dog in the family - the kids have been after us for awhile now. Looked at a few, might be close to a border collie, but I hear some really good and some not so good things about them. The good more from word of mouth although not directly from an owner of one, the not so good from reading info on the internet, which is never the smartest move.

So looking to see if anyone out there has ever had as a pet a border collie and if so your thoughts on it - is it really as hyper as some would leave you to believe or is it a good dog that just has energy and likes to play.

Looking to move soon on this (one way or the other) so any feedback would be appreciated.

Never had a dog, sorry. But golden retrievers are awesome.

BDD, Did you consider the Australian Cattle Dog? They are amazingly intelligent, protective and loyal, but not recommended for homes with other pets or very little children, as they will try to herd any and everything that they can.

Border collies are also great dogs, but I understand that they are a bit high strung, and do not do well if they are left alone for long hours. They are prone to separation anxiety. As someone who had a dog that suffered from separation anxiety, I would suggest that you do your best to avoid that particular malady if possible.

Both breeds are good ones, but both are recommended for homes where they will have lots of company and lots of exercise. I would suggest staying away from purebreeds, and look for a mix of one of these. Again, don't know the ages of your kids or if you and your wife both work full time, but if that's the case, I would suggest looking some more.

I think most dogs, if trained properly and given a lot of love, are good dogs regardless of the breed. Different breeds have different characteristics, but most people don't know how to train them the right way in order for that dog to be a good member of the family.

Get a PUG!!!! Ive got one,they are hilarious!!!

I have a yellow lab - 10 years old. He is wonderful with children and other dogs. My neighbor has a Pug puppy and the two of them run and romp around all day. It sure is nice to come home at night and be greeted like a returning hero!

I have heard that Border Collies are very smart but need a lot of space to run around. I only heard that from a friend of a friend, so I don't know how true that is.

Yorkie.

2 words: Chick magnets.

Im greeted like a sex toy..

And you're NOT a sex toy?

When it comes to my pet dog, i prefer not to be.We cant all be open minded like you PB.

Does he just sniff you or actually mount you?

Seriously,my dogs the greatest.He has only ever tried to "mount" my little brother once or twice.

Poor Fredo.

Its funny,my dogs' name is Sonny.

Border Collies are awesome dogs. I have a 9 year old female and she's great. I'm pretty sure that they are the smartest dog breed, which is definitely noticable. She loves to play fetch and is always in a good mood. One drawback is that herding is a natural instinct, so my dog barks a lot when someone is walking by my house (but the barking works great as a security system). As long as you have a decent sized yard, I would definitely recommend a border collie.

Did you get a dog yet Big Daddy Don?

I grew up with a Boston Terrier. I'm sure everyone says this about their dogs, but it was the coolest dog ever. A big dog in a little body. Very smart and responsive to everyone in the family and loved to play when it was time to play, or snuggle on the couch when it was time to watch some TV.