Petlist> A - Z of Dog Breeds> Border Collie Dog Breed
Back to all breeds

Border Collie Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:n/a
  • Size:Medium
  • Ease of Training:High
  • Grooming:Low
  • Shedding:Medium
  • Exercise Needed:Long walk and lots of running everyday
  • Energy Level:High
  • Protection:Medium, good watchdog, will bark
  • Good with Children:Yes, with older more considerate children
  • Health Clearances:OFA, CERF, BAER
  • Weight:30-45 lbs
  • Height:Male: 20-23, Female: 18-21 inches
  • Coat Colour:Black, blue merle, and sable, marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan

Border Collie Coat

The Border Collie comes in two coat varieties: rough or smooth. Both varieties are double coat and weather resistant and are close fitting and thick. The outer coat is either wavy or straight and coarse in texture. The under coat is dense, short, and soft. The rough coat variety has fur of medium length. The chest, forelegs, underside, and haunches are feathered. The coat on the face, front of legs, ears, and feet is smooth and short. The smooth variety has fur of short length over the entire body and there may be slight feathering on the chest, ruff, haunches, and forelegs. The color of the coat comes in all colors or combination of colors and markings. They may be solid, merle, sable, bi-color, or tri-color. Border Collies are average shedders.

Border Collie Character

The Border Collie is medium-sized, exceptionally athletic, and possesses great endurance. This breeds obsession is their livestock work. They are high energy, confident, and determined. They are light on their feet, have a flowing movement, and are extremely versatile.

Border Collie Temperament

This breed is intelligent, responsive, and devoted to their master and work. The Border Collie is extremely sensitive and thrives on human interaction. They are not recommended for the novice, sedentary or apathetic dog owner or for a home with a two-career family. They do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time and will suffer separation anxiety or become destructive. Border Collies do best in a home with older considerate children. They typically get along with dogs they have been raised with but should not be in a home with cats or other small household pets. This breeds inherent work ethic will lead them to attempt to herd anything and everything that moves.

Border Collie Care

The Border Collie requires weekly brushing. Special attention should be given to the coat during shedding. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when necessary.

Border Collie Activity

The Border Collie has an inordinate amount of energy and requires more than physical exercise. They thrive on work, play, mental stimulation, and close contact with their owner and family. They are not recommended for apartment or city dwelling. They do best on a working farm or in a rural secluded setting where they are able to romp, run, and roam freely and safely.

Border Collie Health and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Border Collie is around 13-15 years. There are a number of health issues and problems that are linked to this breed, and this includes deafness, seizures, allergies, epilepsy, cataracts, OCD, PRA, and HD. You should ensure that the parents of the Border Collie puppy have OFA and CERF certificates.