The Border Collie Sat Still for Once, and a Calf Had Something to Do With It

Two neighbors have settled onto the porch steps as if waiting for the afternoon to say something. A black-and-white Border Collie sits upright with sharp, attentive eyes and a perfectly straight back, and next to him a brown-and-white calf is tucked into a sit with her head turned his way. Behind them are flower pots, a coiled hose and a barn door, and the light is warm and low.

Border Collies are often described as the world's most driven herding dogs. They are brilliant and quick, but they also need a great deal of mental and physical exercise. A bored Border Collie may invent its own jobs, like nudging people into a group or circling on the lawn, so puzzle toys, training games and long runs help keep them happy.

Because the breed was developed to move livestock, a Border Collie around a calf is a natural pairing, though the dog has to be trained to be gentle and not to nip or chase. Calm sits like this one usually mean the dog has learned that his job right now is simply to be a good neighbor.

Clover seems to like the company, and the collie looks like he is keeping her safe in his own thoughtful way. They are a pair that looks right at home on any porch.