Our Border Collie mix was an abandoned street-roaming little mutt that we rescued. We did not know about their herding "instincts" around kids. Not long after we took her in, my wife and I heard the then-five-year old scream, "Ouch!" When we asked him what had happened, he said, "the dog just bit my butt!" We did not believe him, and brushed it off... Then, a few days later, we actually SAW the dog try to "herd" (corner) Ryan. He, of course, had no idea, and started running away like any five-year old would. That's when she nipped in the butt again! "Ouch! You see? The dog bites me"
We laughed so hard. She did not hurt him at all.. it was just a little nibble. She's an incredibly sweet dog. Anyway, we later read that border collies may not be the best dogs to have around little kids, but what did we know? We just wanted to rescue the poor animal.
Anyway, we had a talk with Ryan, and explained to him what he should or should not do around the dog... All is well. "Precious" has been with us now for some 6 years, and sleeps with the now-11-year old Ryan (on the bed, under the covers) every night. Every morning when I go wake him up, I see two bundles under the cover... very cute.
Juan