The Border Collie is considered by many to be one of the smartest dog breeds in the world. This top-level sheep herder has a serious work ethic and will do best in working environments or with families who can provide it with an abundance of activity.
Quick Stats
Group: Herding
Size: Medium
Height: 19-22 inches (48- 56 cm.)
Weight: 35 -50 pounds (16-23 kg.)
Shedding: Moderate
Grooming: Easy
Lifespan: 13-15 years
Border Collie History
This breed was created for sheep herding. It was developed on the border of England and Scotland, which is how it got the “Border,” in its name. Its ancestors were the reindeer herding dogs of the Vikings which were brought with them when they invaded Scotland.
These spitz-type dogs were in later times crossed with dogs such as the Valée Sheepdog to produce a sheep herding dog that was better suited for the hilly Scottish terrain. The Border Collie evolved from these cross-bred dogs. They are believed to have been in widespread use as farm and herding dogs since the first century.
By the 1800s with the expansion of the wool industry, they became a very common sight in farming communities throughout all of the countries in Great Britain. However, the Border Collie didn’t become an officially recognized breed until 1915.
Border Collie Characteristics
The Border Collie stands between nineteen and twenty-two inches tall and weighs between thirty-five and fifty pounds. The body is lean, muscular, and athletic. It has a wide skill with a very distinct stop. The ears are set well apart and carried either fully or semi-erect. The eyes are oval in shape and can be any color. The tail is long and set low.
It’s never carried over the back of the dog; however, it may be raised when it is excited. The Border Collie coat comes in two types: the rough coat and smooth coat. The rough coat can be from medium to long in length and either straight or slightly wavy in texture. It is short and smooth on the face. The smooth coat is short in length and smooth over the entire body of the dog with the exception of feathering.
While any coat color or combination of colors is acceptable the predominant ear color should be the same color as the main color of the body. Common colors are black and white, white and tan, gray and black, red and white, and all black.
Border Collie Health
As with all dog types, this breed is known to be affected by certain health conditions. The most common Border Collie health problems include:
-progressive retinal atrophy
-collie eye anomaly (CEA)
-glaucoma
-epilepsy
-neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL)
-trapped neutrophil syndrome (TNS)
-hip dysplasia
-elbow dysplasia
-hypothyroidism
-congenital deafness
-sensitivity to anesthesia
-sensitivity to Ivermectin
The average Border Collie lifespan is from thirteen to fifteen years.
Border Collie Temperament
This is an extremely intelligent breed of dog. And because it was developed to work it also has an enormous amount of energy. The Border Collie is very people-oriented, loves attention, and is also quite sensitive.
It’s well-known for being easy to train and is very good with kids and other dogs as well. However smaller pets can sometimes be an issue. Although not a reliable watchdog since it rarely barks, the breed can be a bit stand-offish with strangers.
Border Collie Care
The Border Collie is a first-class herding dog but also can be a fabulous family companion. However, due to its working background, it does require intense exercise each and every day. In fact, the breed is accurately described as having the drive of a tireless workaholic. Therefore it is not the right fit for individuals and families who aren’t very active.
If a Border Collie doesn’t have enough exercise, a job to do, or a lot of play, it can become destructive, compulsive, and obsessive. While it is known to be a very easy breed to train, Border Collie training and socialization should start when it is a young puppy.
Training when the dog is young is especially important to help re-direct the instinct to herd just about anything that moves. The breed’s coat needs brushing and combing once or twice per week to keep it tangle-free and looking good.
Border Collie Facts
-The cleverness and versatility of the breed can be applied to many activities other than herding. The Border Collie excels in agility and obedience competitions. It can also be used for search and rescue, tracking, and even protection work. They also make excellent service and therapy dogs.
-While very smart, Border Collie puppies do tend to mature a bit more slowly than other breeds, and they may have puppy-like behaviors and habits until they are around two years old.
-The vast majority of Border Collies today can have their lineage traced back to a dog named Old Hemp. Born in northern England in the border county of Northumberland in 1894, he was famous for his sheep herding abilities, and his pups were highly desirable of which he produced around two hundred.
-While the breed is quick to learn they are extremely sensitive. Therefore training should never be harsh. Instead, it should use unemotional commands and a lot of positive praise. Some dogs actually fear letting down their master so much that they may shut down completely when confused.
-Because they were bred for hundreds of years to chase things that move, the Border Collie is known to sometimes chase cars as well. This can be very dangerous and is one of the reasons that basic obedience training is so important when owning this breed.
-When herding sheep the breed actually works in total silence as it follows the signals or commands of the shepherd. It’s also known for hugging the ground and its intense stare when working.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Serbian Dog Breeds
While the Republic of Serbia was part of Yugoslavia for most of the 20th century, today it is an independent state. And as such, it has three official Serbian dog breeds to call its very own. So here are the dog breeds from Serbia and what you’ll want to know about...
Long-Haired Dog Breeds
There's a certain elegance and beauty when it comes to dogs with long hair. While these breeds do require extra maintenance and patience, they're well worth it not just for their stunning coats but of course for the companionship they provide as well. So here are some...
Swiss Mountain Dog Breeds
The Swiss Sennenhunds or Swiss mountain dogs are a unique group of dogs with tricolor coats from the Swiss Alps. And while experts may disagree on their exact origins, one thing is for sure these canines are a special bunch. So here are the four types of Swiss...
Setter Dog Breeds
The setter breeds are known for their top-notch bird hunting abilities, intelligence, love for their family, and of course their long and attractive coats. While they may be similar, each of them is uniquely different. So here are all four of the setter dog breeds and...
Finnish Dog Breeds
With over 180,000 lakes and the majority of its land covered by green forests, Finland is a country of natural beauty. It has long, freezing, and dark Arctic winters. However during the short summer months, the sun is shining around the clock, this natural phenomenon...
Prague Ratter Facts And Information
The Prague Ratter is a rare dog from the Czech Republic. These small yet feisty dogs make wonderful companions and are also very popular for keeping away rats and other vermin. Keep reading to find out more amazing Prague Ratter facts and information! The Prague...
Brazilian Terrier Facts
True to its name, the Brazilian Terrier is a Brazilian dog breed that was initially bred for chasing down rats and other vermin. And there is a lot you’ll want to know about these amazing little dogs. So keep reading to find out more amazing Brazilian Terrier facts...
Alaskan Dog Breeds
Alaska is considered by many to be the “Last Frontier.” It’s a state that is well-known for its majestic natural beauty and at the same time for being a place that is wild and unforgiving. So it’s no surprise that the dog breeds from Alaska were developed not only to...
Rough Collie Facts And Information
The Rough Collie is a large, courageous dog breed that excels in hard work. These dogs are also highly affectionate and make great family pets. Read on to find out more Rough Collie facts and information! They Originated In Scotland And Wales Two Collie dogs...
Romanian Miortic Shepherd Dog Facts
True to its name, the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is a Romanian dog breed that specializes in protecting livestock. These gentle giants also make wonderful family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog facts and information! The...
Fila Brasileiro Facts
The Fila Brasileiro is a Brazilian breed known for its strength, tenacity, and occasional aggressiveness. These dogs are highly protective of their owners and are not at all suitable for novice owners. Read on to find out more amazing Fila Brasileiro facts and...
Old English Sheepdog Facts
The Old English Sheepdog is the most classic of the shaggy-looking dogs. These intelligent and athletic dogs are hard workers, but they also make loving family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Old English Sheepdog facts and information! The Old English...
Cesky Fousek Facts
The Cesky Fousek, also known as the Bohemian Wire-Haired Pointing Griffon, or the Bohemian Wirehaired Pointer, is a versatile hunting breed. These dogs make excellent hunting companions, but they are also a popular choice as guard dogs. Read on to find out more Cesky...
Cesky Terrier Facts
The Cesky Terrier, also known sometimes as the Bohemian Terrier or Czech Terrier, is a lively dog breed with a penchant for playfulness. These dogs can be wary with strangers, but are incredibly affectionate to their family members. Read on to find out more amazing...
Russian Spaniel Facts And Information
The Russian Spaniel is a versatile gundog, watchdog, and even a loving family companion. These small dogs are strong and athletic, as well as devoted to their owners. Read on to find out more amazing Russian Spaniel facts and information! The Russian Spaniel Is A New...
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Facts
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a small dog with a big name and an even bigger heart. These dogs were bred to hunt rabbits, but also make energetic and loving companions. Read on to find out more amazing Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen facts and information! The...
Short-Legged Hounds
Hounds with short legs aren’t just adorable, but they have many advantages over their long-legged counterparts. While each specific breed is different typically shorter dogs can get into areas where bigger canines can’t and they’re also slower, which allows them to be...
Dogs With Yellow Eyes
There’s no doubt that dogs with yellow eyes make quite an impression. And there are quite a few special canines that have this unique and recessive trait. So here are some of the top dog breeds with yellow eyes and what you’ll want to know about each of them....
Sled Dog Breeds
Sled dogs have been used for centuries to carry important goods across frigid and difficult terrain. These hard-working dogs also make amazing pets! The following are the best sled dog breeds and what you'll want to know about each of them. What Makes a Great Sled...
Finnish Lapphund Facts
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog that was bred to herd reindeer in its native country, Finland. These intelligent and energetic dogs are extremely popular in the Nordic countries, but can be difficult to find in other places. Read on to find out more amazing...