Border Collie
Quick Summary
Exceptionally intelligent herding dog requiring experienced owners. Ideal for active lifestyles and dog sports. Main considerations include extensive exercise needs and mental stimulation requirements.
Contents
Weight Range
30-55 lbs
♂ Male: 30-55 lbs
♀ Female: 30-55 lbs
Height Range
46-56 inches
♂ Male: 19-22"
♀ Female: 19-22"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #98
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Herding Group
Originally bred for Developed in the border country between Scotland and England during the 1700s, these dogs revolutionized sheep herding with their distinctive 'eye' and precise control of livestock
Popularity
#35
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 19"-22" |
| Female Height | 19"-22" |
| Male Weight | 30-55 lbs |
| Female Weight | 30-55 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $800-$1,500 for purchase, plus supplies. Monthly expenses average $150-200 for food, grooming, and preventive care. Additional costs for training classes and competitive sports equipment.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Highly intelligent and intensely focused, Border Collies exhibit strong herding instincts and remarkable problem-solving abilities. Their high energy and work drive require constant engagement, while their sensitive nature demands positive reinforcement training.
Social Needs
Requires extensive daily interaction with humans and benefits from structured activities. Generally good with other dogs when properly socialized. Can become anxious if left alone for long periods.
Breed Overview
Border Collies showcase a medium-sized, athletic build with distinctive black and white coat patterns, though other colors exist. Their almond-shaped eyes possess an intense, intelligent gaze that reflects their keen herding instinct. A graceful, agile frame supports their remarkable working ability, complemented by a deep chest and strong legs built for endurance.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Extremely intelligent
- ✓ Highly trainable
- ✓ Athletic and agile
- ✓ Loyal and devoted
- ✓ Excellent working dog
Cons
- ✗ Requires extensive exercise
- ✗ May be too intense for novice owners
- ✗ Strong herding instinct
- ✗ Needs constant mental stimulation
- ✗ Can be overly sensitive
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Smart, Energetic |
| Energy Level | Needs Lots of Activity |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 2-3 hours of intense daily exercise including herding activities, agility training, or advanced obedience work. High-intensity running, fetch, and mental stimulation are essential. Border Collies thrive with varied, challenging physical activities.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Active working dogs may need additional calories. Essential to monitor portion sizes and adjust based on activity level and weight maintenance.
Feed 2-3 cups of premium dog food daily, split into two meals. Working dogs may need up to 4 cups. Choose protein-rich formulas with 25-30% protein content. Adjust portions based on activity level and weight.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Needs substantial outdoor space with secure fencing. Ideal for rural or suburban homes with large yards. Adapts well to cold climates but requires shelter from extreme heat.
Requires minimum half-acre of secure outdoor space for exercise. Thrives in rural or suburban settings with room to run. Can adapt to larger homes if exercise needs are met through daily activities.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Perfected in the rugged border country between Scotland and England, these dogs emerged as premier sheep herders. Their unique 'eye' - an intense staring technique used to control sheep - became their trademark in the shepherding community.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the border country between Scotland and England during the 1700s, these dogs revolutionized sheep herding with their distinctive 'eye' and precise control of livestock.
Fun Fact
Border Collies can learn to recognize over 1,000 words and can understand complex multi-step commands.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires extensive daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial.