Black and White is a Colour Too!

I’ll be the first to say—I adore my red and whites. Many people who love coloured Border Collies feel the same; there’s something unique and eye-catching about them. People are often drawn to the “different.”

But here’s the thing: did you know black and white is a colour too?

When searching for your next puppy, it’s so important to look beyond the colour of the coat. What truly matters are the qualities of the breeder, the health and temperament of the parents, and the puppy’s overall well-being. Sadly, I’ve heard too many stories of families who missed out on a puppy with us because they wanted a particular colour. Instead, they purchased from breeders who don’t health-test, breed from parents with poor temperaments, or use lines with known genetic issues such as lupus and other conditions.

What to Look For in a Breeder

When choosing a puppy, colour should come last on your list. Ask yourself:

• Does the breeder hip and elbow score the parents as a minimum requirement?

• Has the breeder DNA tested for all testable diseases in Border Collies?

• Are the parents proven through showing, sports, or working trials—demonstrating they are trainable, intelligent, and well-rounded dogs?

• Does the breeder commit to providing lifetime support and advice, guiding you through the highs and lows of dog ownership?

• Are puppies raised in a safe, enriched environment with proper socialisation (exposure to people, sounds, and experiences)?

• Does the breeder carefully match puppies to families based on temperament, not just on colour preference?

• Is the breeder a member of a recognised club (such as the Border Collie Club of SA) and bound by a strict Code of Ethics?

• Can the breeder provide references or testimonials from previous puppy families?

  
  

A Word on Colour

If your heart is set on a particular colour, that’s completely okay. Just be prepared to wait for the right puppy from a reputable breeder who meets these standards. A well-bred puppy, regardless of colour, will bring you years of joy and companionship.

But perhaps when you next look at a litter, you’ll pause for a moment and notice that beautiful black and white puppy sitting in the corner. With a healthy pedigree, sound temperament, and breeder support behind them, they might just turn out to be your perfect companion—with far fewer problems in the long run.

Because yes—black and white is a colour too.