The Border Collie is from the famous Hangin Tree Scott lineage owned by Gary Ericsson. They are bred to work cattle, but can also be used to work other livestock such as sheep. However, the dogs can be a little rough on the sheep. Dogs that work cows have to be able to bark and bite. They are a short hair, medium size dog. Their short hair helps to keep them cool and helps them to stay cleaner. Border Collies are a herding and gathering dog, but they can be shown how to drive. The Hangin Tree Cowdog is a new breed that was originated, mentioned previously, by Gary Ericsson. Genetically, they are a mix of Border Collie, Catahoula Leopard, Kelpie and Australian Sheppard. It took a decade of breeding to get the end result of the Hangin Tree Cowdog. The Border Collie offers its intelligence and trainability, the Caltahoula its sense of smell for trailing, the Kelpie its endurance and the Australian Shepard lends its aggressiveness. The dogs have a short coat that keeps them cooler and helps keep burrs off. They come in colors ranging from blue merle, black and white, to red and white. All dogs have doctored tails. They’re medium sized and big boned, making them strong. This is an important characteristic for working cows. The Hangin Tree Cowdog is a supreme cattledog.