Breed Standards
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Breed standards describe the core structure, temperament, instincts, and working traits purposefully preserved and bred into these dogs.
In Border Collies and Smooth Fox Terriers, those characteristics are not accidental. They are part of what these breeds are meant to be. At the same time, no two Border Collies or Smooth Fox Terriers are alike. With their high intellect and individual nature, each dog is very much its own dog. A new Border Collie or Smooth Fox Terrier should not be compared to the last dog you owned, even within the same breed.
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Because of that, training, handling, and daily structure should never be taken lightly. Buyers should return to the JBK Three T’s — Tone, Timing, and Technique — and understand that shaping behavior begins on day one. Consistency from the beginning helps create a dog that is clear-minded, manageable, and cohesive to live with over the course of its life.
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The JBK Education Center also includes training ideas, guidance, and helpful information for raising and living with these active breeds. When approached correctly, these two active, intelligent breeds are not only highly capable, but a true joy to live with.
AKC Border Collie Breed Standard
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Personality: Remarkably smart, work-focused, and responsive
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Energy level: Very active; requires regular physical and mental engagement
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Good with children: Better with supervision
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Good with other dogs: Better with supervision
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Shedding: Seasonal
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Grooming needs: Weekly brushing and general coat maintenance
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Trainability: Highly trainable and eager to work
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Height: 19–22 inches (male), 18–21 inches (female)
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Weight: Males 35–45 pounds, females 30–40 pounds
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Life expectancy: 12–15 years
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Breed note: Strong herding instinct, keen expression, athletic structure, and endurance are central breed characteristics. AKC describes the Border Collie as an intelligent, agile, natural working sheepdog whose structure and temperament should support function.
AKC Smooth Fox Terrier Breed Standard
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Personality: Independent, lively, alert, and amusing
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Energy level: Energetic and active
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Good with children: Better with supervision
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Good with other dogs: Better with supervision
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Shedding: Moderate
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Grooming needs: Low to moderate; regular brushing and routine upkeep
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Trainability: Intelligent, alert, and capable, but still very terrier in attitude
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Height: About 15.5 inches preferred for males; bitches slightly less
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Weight: About 18 pounds for males; bitches somewhat less, in proportion
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Life expectancy: 12–15 years
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Breed note: AKC describes the Smooth Fox Terrier as gay, lively, active, balanced, and built with speed, endurance, and strength in a small compass.