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Border Collie

Border Collie

The ultimate herder, the Border Collie is a medium-sized, well-proportioned dog that is easily recognisable whether working or competing in dog sports. Known for their tireless energy, stamina and working drive, this breed is one of the most active and always wanting to please.

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

Key Facts

Lifespan: 12–15 years
Weight: 14–20kg
Height: 48–53cm
Colours: The coat can either be smooth or of medium length and the most common colour is black and white, although other colours with white are also seen – e.g. brown, blue merle, red and tricolour
Size: Medium
Kennel Club group: Pastoral

Ratings

Family-friendly: 4/5
Exercise needs: 5/5
Easy to train: 5/5
Tolerates being alone: 1/5
Likes other pets: 3/5
Energy level: 5/5
Grooming needs: 3/5
Shedding: 3/5

Personality

Border Collies are always ready to work, attentive, lively, and alert. They will form a very close bond with their owner and family but, unless given plenty of time and exercise, they are not ideal pets for a family with very young children, as it’s in their nature to herd anything that moves - your children included! If not kept physically and mentally stimulated they will become bored, develop behavioural problems or get into mischief, as their brains are always active.

The Border Collie will suit an extremely active owner who is able to give them plenty of exercises, enjoys training, and wants a very full-on dog.

History and Origins

The Border Collie dog breed dates back to the 1700s, although it wasn’t given its present name until 1915. Border Collies worked with shepherds in the border area between Scotland and England for hundreds of years, being bred purely for their working ability. Some Border breeders fear emphasis on looks and beauty could lead to the breed's ruination and, therefore, still concentrate primarily on their working qualities. There are often differences between show and working strains.

Did you Know?

  • There are many theories on how Collies got their names but as ‘collie’ is Gaelic for ‘useful’ perhaps it’s as simple as Scottish farmers recognising one of the key traits of their dogs.
  • American psychologist Dr. Stanley Coren classified the Border Collie as the most intelligent breed of dog, ranking first out of 133 breeds.
  • Border Collies are known for their intense stare, allowing them to control a flock with a simple glance.
  • This breed is highly sensitive and doesn’t respond well to harsh treatment or loud noises.
  • If not well socialised, the Border Collie can become very shy and wary of other dogs and people.

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