Border Collies are highly energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are not well-suited for sedentary lifestyles so if you do not live a very active lifestyle it is not recommended to choose this dog breed.
Top 6 vital stats about Border Collies...
1
Social
Good with other kids and other pets
2
Exercise
1+ hour per day
3
Grooming
Weekly brushing
4
Feeding
2 times a day
5
Training
Requires frequent exercise and stimulation
6
Shedding
Light
Border Collie health conditions & temperament
Do Border Collies need a lot of grooming?
A weekly brush is typically sufficient to remove loose fur and prevent matting, particularly during shedding seasons when they may require more frequent attention.
Do Border Collies suffer from health conditions?
Common health issues include hip dyplasia, eye complications, epelipsy and skin conditions.
Do Border Collies bark a lot?
Border Collies will use their voice to communicate frequently if they are not receiving stimulation.
General summary
Border Collies possess a double coat that can vary from smooth to rough. While not all Border Collies will bark a lot, they do tend to use their voice to communicate, especially if they are bored, seeking attention, or not receiving enough physical and mental stimulation.
Border Collie feeding & attention
How often to feed them?
Puppies under six months should be fed three to four times a day. As they mature into adulthood, the frequency is generally reduced to twice daily, but portion size should also increase accordingly.
What energy levels do Border Collies have?
As a breed known for their remarkable herding abilities, these dogs exhibit high levels of alertness and are often described as work-oriented or task-focused.
Easy to train?
As a breed known for their remarkable herding abilities, these dogs exhibit high levels of alertness and are often described as work-oriented or task-focused. Their eagerness to learn and please their owners makes them highly trainable.
Care summary
Border Collies, known for their high energy levels and intelligence, typically require a structured feeding schedule to maintain optimal health. It is imperative to provide a balanced diet tailored to their specific energy needs, which can vary based on their activity level.
Border Collie personality & good to knows
Good with children?
Individual temperaments can vary, and the extent of their friendliness may be influenced by factors such as socialisation, training, and past experiences. Owners should ensure that Border Collies are properly introduced to children in a controlled environment.
Good with people?
They are generally good-natured with family and may be wary of strangers, displaying a protective instinct.
Good with other pets?
Border Collies are generally known for their sociable and energetic nature, which often translates into positive interactions with other dogs.
Personality summary
As a breed, they possess high levels of intelligence and responsiveness, which can facilitate their ability to communicate and establish rapport with their canine counterparts. They are generally good-natured with family and may be wary of strangers, displaying a protective instinct. However, the Border Collie's energetic nature requires regular mental and physical stimulation; without it, they may resort to undesirable behaviours out of boredom.
Did You Know?
This breed's cognitive prowess is reflected in their ability to learn new commands with fewer repetitions than most other breeds, making them a favourite for various canine sports and roles that require obedience and quick learning, such as search and rescue missions and as service dogs. It’s important to note, working/service dogs are not usually covered within most standard pet insurance policies, therefore you should check with your provider.
A fun fact about this breed is that it was originally developed in the borderlands between Scotland and England for herding livestock, specifically sheep. They are known for their intense stare which they use to control flocks.
The Border Collie combines brains with athleticism, a trait that has earned them the title as one of the smartest dog breeds in the world
Package available for your Border Collie includes
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Complementary treatment
Up to
£500
per illness/injury
Up to
£750
per illness/injury
Up to
£1000
per illness/injury
3rd Party Liability (dogs only)
Up to
£1M
per illness/injury
Up to
£2M
per illness/injury
Up to
£2M
per illness/injury
Death from Illness*
*Death from illness does not apply to dogs aged 9 and over & cats aged 11 and over
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
Death from accident
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
Border Collie Training & Exercise
Training tips
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Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence and eagerness to learn, making them highly trainable. Their natural instincts for herding and sharp minds enable them to pick up on commands and behaviours quickly.
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With consistent training methods and a stimulating environment, Border Collies can excel in a variety of tasks.
Keeping them happy
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They are often seen in competitive dog sports, such as agility and obedience trials, showcasing their ability to follow complex instructions with precision.
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However, it is essential to engage them both mentally and physically to prevent boredom and the development of undesirable behaviours
Exercise
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Ideally, a Border Collie should exercise for at least 1 to 2 hours daily, which can be divided into multiple sessions.
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This breed excels in activities such as agility training, obedience exercises, and fetch games.
Socialisation
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Proper socialisation from a young age is also crucial for a well-rounded Border Collie. In addition to socialisation, mental engagement through puzzle toys and interactive games is essential.
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Regular exercise is crucial to ensure your Border Collie remains happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
Border Collie Personality Traits
Love for the outdoors
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Their high energy levels and keen instincts make them well-suited for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch. Additionally, their robust build and resilient nature allow them to adapt to various climates and terrains.
Suitability
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A Border Collie is ideal for individuals or families who lead an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Avoid a Border Collie if you intend to not be active with the dog.
Intelligence
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These dogs exhibit a strong work ethic and thrive in environments where they are given tasks and challenges. Often described as highly trainable, Border Collies excel in obedience and agility activities. Despite their hardworking nature, Border Collies also possess a loyal and affectionate side, forming deep bonds with their families.
Your grooming routine
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Routine checks for ear cleanliness, teeth brushing, and nail trimming are essential. A grooming regimen ensures that the Border Collie remains healthy, comfortable, and looking its best. Regular visits to a professional groomer can also complement this home care routine.
Border Collie Common Health Conditions
Epilepsy
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Epilepsy is another concern within the breed, potentially leading to seizures.
Collie eye anomaly
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Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), a genetic disorder that can affect their vision, is also prevalent in the breed.
Hip dysplasia
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Border Collies are susceptible to certain hereditary health conditions. While generally robust and agile, they can be prone to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn't fit together perfectly, which can lead to arthritis.
Allergies and skin conditions
- Border Collie’s may experience allergies and skin conditions. Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary checks can help mitigate these risks and ensure these intelligent and energetic dogs lead healthy lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Border Collies generally have a lifespan of 12-16 years. With proper care, some Border Collies can live longer.
Border Collies stand at around 18-22 inches (46-56 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Border Collies are medium-sized dogs and they typically weigh between 30-45 pounds (14-20 kg).
Border Collies originated in the Scottish Borders, where they were used to herd sheep and cattle.
