The Border Collie is a highly energetic and alert dog breed that is always eager to be active. They are known for their exceptional trainability and above-average intelligence. Originally bred for herding sheep, they have a strong instinct for corralling and may try to chase after motorcycles, vehicles, or other moving objects. To keep them content and well-behaved, it is important to provide them with regular exercise and mentally stimulating activities. Border Collies particularly excel in agility training and enjoy participating in it.
However, without sufficient physical and mental stimulation, Border Collies can become disruptive in the home. They may engage in destructive behaviors such as chewing on furniture, clawing at doors, excessive barking, and even screaming. They are also prone to separation anxiety, which means they may struggle when left alone for extended periods. Additionally, their thick undercoat requires regular brushing and combing to keep it in good condition.
It is worth noting that Border Collies can be sensitive to loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks. These events can cause them stress and anxiety. Providing them with a safe and calm environment during such situations is important for their well-being.
Below, we look at Border Collie dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Border Collie, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Border Collies!
| Dog Breed | Border Collie |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 27-50 lbs (average) |
| Height | 18-21″ (average) |
| Location | Great Britain |
| Ancestry | Roman Herding Dogs, Spitz-type Herders |
| Date of Origin | 1800s |
| Group | Sheep herding |
| Life Expectancy | 11-15 years |
| Price | $600 – $800 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The breed of the Border Collie was originally called the Sheepdog until 1915. At that point, the International Sheep Dog Society decided to register them under the name Border Collie to distinguish them from other Collie breeds. The name refers to their place of origin, the Anglo-Scottish border, specifically Northumberland which borders England and Scotland. The history of this working dog can be traced back to the first century B. C. when the Romans brought their herding dogs to England. The collapse of the Roman Empire led to Viking raiders introducing their own small Spitz-like herding dog to the area. This dog then mixed with the larger Roman herding dogs, resulting in a highly intelligent, hard-working, and agile herding dog that excelled at corralling livestock. All modern Border Collies are believed to be descendants of a dog named Old Hemp, who was known as “the best herding dog” by local shepherds. Old Hemp gained popularity after winning the first official sheepdog trial in Bala, Wales, in 1884. His unique herding technique involved staring down the sheep instead of nipping or barking at them, which proved to be successful and led to his continuous wins. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Border Collie in 1995.
🐕 Border Collie Appearance
The Border Collie is a medium-sized, well-balanced dog that looks athletic and strong. They have a sharp, alert look and are a very clever breed. The breed is available with either a rough or smooth coat. Rough coatings are longer than smooth coats. Dogs with smooth or rough coats both have velvety, double coats. These vivacious canines have gorgeous fur that comes in a variety of hues and patterns. They might be merle, solid, bicolor, or three colors. The combination of black and white is the most frequent color pattern seen in this gorgeous dog. Usually, the dominant color of their fur matches the color of their snout. Their muzzle is the same length as their head, and they have a broad, flat skull. Merle-patterned dogs can have eyes that are two distinct colors. Their eyes, which are ovals, are far apart. The Border Collie’s teeth should come together in a clean scissors bite; there should be no overbites or underbites. This alert dog has medium-sized, widely spaced ears that may be worn either upright or semi-erect. The tips of the ears may fold forward when they are held somewhat upright. They have a powerful, somewhat tapered snout that ends at the nose. They have a tail that is a fair length. The tail is low with a small upward swirl while they are enthusiastically working. Their toes are somewhat curved and close together, and their oval paws have deep, sturdy pads.
| 👀 Eye Color | Blue |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, Gray, Brown, Red, Cream, Blue, White, Sable, Brindle |
⚡ Fun Fact: Border Collie dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Border Collie
The Border Collie is a born competitor. The breed is exceptionally clever and high-energy. They are one of the most intelligent and submissive species, are simple to teach, and love to learn. Generally speaking, the Border Collie gets along well with older kids and canines of the opposite sex. They may have a propensity to go after tiny animals, moving objects, or young children because of their herding nature. They have a tendency to gaze, upsetting other dogs or animals. These lovable pets may have separation anxiety. They are not a breed of dog who prefers to just sit around. This active dog requires a “purpose” or else they could act destructively. They are a great and devoted breed, but it is crucial to socialize and teach them from a young age. This breed is ideal for those who want to stay busy and are dedicated to giving their dog a fulfilling life.
🤝 Are Border Collies Friendly or Aggressive?
Border Collie dogs are typically good with other pets and have an average level of friendliness towards strangers. They are also known to be very kid-friendly and enjoy being around children. When it comes to cats and other dogs, Border Collies show an average level of friendliness. Additionally, this breed is considered one of the best choices for elderly people due to their characteristics and temperament.
This breed is known for being:
- Energetic
- Protective
- Alert
- Intelligent
- Responsive
- Loyal
- Tenacious
🐩 Border Collie Care & Maintenance
Regular grooming is required for the thick, rich coat of the Border Collie. They will require more regular brushing throughout the seasons when they shed more heavily. Not only does brushing your dog’s coat assist circulate the oils throughout the coat, it also keeps the hair from matting. These oils may maintain healthy, glossy fur. It is not necessary to bathe your dog regularly (every few months). Brushing your dog’s teeth is equally as vital as brushing their hair. Tartar, which can lead to gingivitis and gum disease, can be avoided with regular brushing. Regularly inspect your busy dog’s ears for debris, ear mites, and wax. The breed requires consistent daily mental and physical activity. They appreciate having a task to complete and are passionate about sports, such as playing fetch, leaping for a frisbee, and competing in agility training. Since they are an energetic breed, they require a high-calorie, nutritious food. Before making a purchase, it is a good idea to check the ingredients label on every food item. Instead of using grains or byproducts, the first and main component should be a protein (chicken, duck, cattle, or fish).
Border Collie dogs have a moderate level of shedding, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Brushing their coat regularly can help minimize the amount of hair that is shed. The extent of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the specific breed type. In terms of bathing, it is recommended to give Border Collies a bath every 6-8 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.5 cups daily, costing you about $1.75 – $2.25 daily, or approximately $52.50 – $67.50 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Border Collie dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 14 miles per week, which equates to about 90 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Border Collie dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
❤️🩹 Border Collie Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Border Collie Dog Breed can be:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Pannus
- Hypothyroidism
- Osteochondritis Dissecans
- Portosystemic Shunt
While minor concerns include:
- Epilepsy
- Lens Luxation
- Multidrug Resistance
🤧 Important: Is Border Collie hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Border Collie.
⚡ Border Collie Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Border Collie a great choice for families with young children?
The Border Collie’s high intelligence and trainability make them a great choice for families with young children. They can easily learn and follow commands, making them reliable and safe around children.
Is the Border Collie breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Border Collie is not considered a suitable breed for apartment living. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, which can be challenging to provide in a small living space.
How much exercise does a Border Collie require compared to other breeds?
Border Collies require a significant amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They have high energy levels and need daily activities that challenge them physically and mentally.
Is the Border Collie breed known for being good with other pets?
Border Collies may not be the best choice for households with other pets. Their strong herding instinct can make them chase after small animals and potentially cause harm.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Border Collie?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Border Collie include the Australian Cattle Dog and the Australian Shepherd. These breeds are also active and intelligent but may require slightly less exercise.
What are the common health issues that Border Collies are prone to?
Border Collies are prone to various health issues, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy. Regular veterinary care and health screenings are important for this breed.
Are Border Collies known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Yes, Border Collies are known to be easy to train compared to many other breeds. Their high intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners and highly obedient.
Are Border Collies more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Border Collies are more prone to separation anxiety compared to some other breeds. They form strong bonds with their owners and can become anxious when left alone for long periods.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Border Collie that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Border Collie that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle and the Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Border Collie are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Border Collie, such as the Shetland Sheepdog or the Welsh Corgi, can be a better fit.
Is the Border Collie breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Border Collie breed can be good with children with special needs, but it depends on the individual dog’s temperament and training. It is important to introduce the dog to the child in a controlled and supervised manner.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Border Collie?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Border Collie are moderate. They have a dense undercoat that requires regular brushing and combing to prevent matting. They shed moderately throughout the year but have heavier shedding periods twice a year.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Border Collie dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
