Border Collie Breed Characteristics
Height
45 to 55 cm at the shoulder
Weight
30 to 55 pounds
Life Expectancy
12 to 15 years
Coat Colours
Black, white, chocolate, blue, red, brindle, tri-colour
Border Collie
Intelligent, alert and athletic
About the Border Collie
The Border Collie combines an intense work ethic, unlimited stamina and razor-sharp intelligence into one spectacular dog. They’re one of the world’s premiere herding dogs and are known for their stare or ‘eye’ which they use to control their flock.
They tend to have extremely outgoing personalities that fit perfectly with their high energy. A Border Collie puppy needs activity, and they need a lot of it.
Active owners with a good knowledge of dog training will appreciate just how attentive and athletic this breed is – they make great competitors in various canine sports.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Border Collie, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
4/5
Friendly with Kids
4/5
Friendly with Dogs
3/5
Ease of Grooming
3/5
Exercise Needs
5/5
Prey Drive
3/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
3/5
Good for Novice Owners
2/5
Apartment Living
2/5
Border Collie Breed History
Herding dogs have been part of British farm life since as far back as the first century B.C. These loyal working dogs were one of the most valuable assets a farmer could have. There were many different types of these dogs in each region.
The Border Collie is so named because it comes from the border country between Scotland and England. It only became a distinct breed from other Collie dogs in the mid-19th century when Queen Victoria became a fan of the dogs and started her own breeding program.
Today the Border Collie is ranked as the most intelligent dog breed in the world, with one specimen, Chaser the Dog, supposedly recognizing over a thousand words.
The breed excels today in canine sports but is still very highly valued as a working farm dog.
Caring For a Border Collie
- Temperament: A Border Collie is very loving and devoted toward their owner, and can be counted upon to protect and watch over their family and territory.
- Grooming: They shed throughout the year, with heavier shedding in the spring and fall. They will need frequent brushing and occasional grooming.
- Exercise: Most Border Collies have unending stamina and energy. They’ll need at least one to two hours of moderate to intense exercise each day. Many of these dogs can keep running around for even longer than that.
- Nutrition: Adult Border Collies will need around two cups of dry dog food each day, delivered in two meals. Border Collie puppies will need around half that, in three to four meals. Consult your vet for more specific diet advice.
- Training: Most Border Collies are incredibly attentive and pick up on training with ease. They can be taught any number of tricks, commands and skills, so long as they are trained using positive reinforcement.
How to Choose a Responsible Border Collie Breeder
It’s best to get Border Collie puppies from Border Collie Breeders that are part of a breeder organisation. These organisations regulate breeding practices, which will help ensure that your puppy is tested for hereditary problems.
It is also important to try and visit your breeder so that you can check the living conditions of the dam and puppies before committing to the sale. A good breeder should be able to explain their breeding program and breeding values.
Border Collie FAQ
Can Border Collies be left alone throughout the day?
Border Collies are working dogs and thrive on activity. Relegating a Border Collie puppy to the yard for most of the day may make them moody and more susceptible to developing behavioural issues.
Do Border Collies make good service dogs?
Yes, Border Collies can be great service dogs due to their intelligence and work ethic. They’re also intensely loyal to their owners and are perceptive of their owner’s moods and needs.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Border Collie
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.