Border Collie breeders are usually far more informed and knowledgeable about their
breed than a typical pet store employee may be. 
Buying a dog from a reputable breeder is a good alternative to buying a dog from a pet store. Border Collies are very high energy dogs that need a good deal of time and attention to bring up
properly. Movies like, "Babe" and others in the past decade have made Border Collies more popular than ever. This popularity can make them a breed that is attractive to so-called "puppy mills" looking to breed dogs quickly for profit. Be sure to seek a reputable breeder; you can rest assured that the dog you get was raised with care by an informed and invested party.
There may be local Border Collie clubs in your area, which can be an excellent resource for locating a breeder. There are national and sometimes regional groups and professional societies for Border Collie owners and breeders. While not all Border Collie breeders will belong to these groups, membership in a group like this may be an indication of how seriously the breeder takes her work. The Internet can be a good resource for locating a Border Collie breeder. Ask other Border Collie owners for recommendations for a breeder, or consult listservs and other websites devoted to dogs in general, or Border Collies in particular. You may want to check out the United States Border Collie Club at http://www.bordercollie.org/club.html, the American Border Collie Association at http://www.americanbordercollie.org or the United States Border Collie Handler's Association at http://www.usbcha.com/ for information on Border Collies and assistance finding breeders. Your vet may also be able to supply you with recommendations for a breeder.
Plan to take the time to get to know potential breeders. A good breeder will always have at least as many questions for you as you have for him. A breeder who cares about his animals will want to know that each dog is going to a good, loving home. You may find that you have a lot of initial contact with a breeder over the phone or via email. When you actually meet with the breeder, you may have your choice of only a few or several dogs, depending on the size of his breeding operation.
The breeding facility should be sanitary and pleasant, with clean runs and cages. The dogs should appear well-cared for and well-fed, with ample space to run and play. When selecting a dog, look for a Border Collie with clear eyes and a shiny coat. 
The dogs should be active and alert. Be wary of a breeder whose dogs are overly timid or aggressive. The puppies should be well socialized and appear healthy and happy.
Border Collies are generally hardy but can be susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, so be sure the breeder carefully screens his stock.
Border Collie breeders can be an excellent source of information, even if you are not yet ready to purchase a dog. A reputable breeder will spend time answering your questions, not just trying to sell you a Border Collie. She will want to know that you are getting the dog you want and that her Border Collie is getting a good home. A Border Collie may cost a bit more from a breeder than it would from a pet store, but you will likely receive far more personalized attention and perhaps a better dog. If you don't feel comfortable with the experience you are having, seek another breeder.
