Border Collie

Dog Breed Profile

Home Dog Breeds Great Britain Border Collie

Border Collie History

The Border Collie is a herding dog that originated in the border region between Scotland and England. It is the most popular sheepdog in the UK, and has also been used successfully as a police or military working and rescue dog. The Border Collie has its origins in the border country between Scotland and England. This area was traditionally populated with small farms and many flocks of sheep, and it is likely that the breed developed as a type of farm dog. The Border Collie has an unusual appearance for a herding dog, and it is also one of the most intelligent. The Border Collie was recognized by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1880, and in 1889 the Herding Group was established. According to the AKC, the Border Collie was ranked in the top 10 most popular registered breeds in 2009.

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

Great Britain

Ancestry

Laconian, Spitz

Border Collie Physical Characteristics

The Border Collie is an able herding dog that is typically 18 to 24 inches in height and weighs between 50 and 70 pounds. They have a rectangular head, a pronounced stop, and a hazel-colored, almond-shaped eye. Their short, hard, dense coat is white, sable, or a mixture of these colors. They are hardworking, intelligent, and highly intelligent. They are natural herders that exhibit an intense desire to please their human handlers.

Eye Colors

Blue, Hazel, Brown, Amber

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 19 – 22 inches

Female Height Range: 18 – 21 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 30 – 55 lbs

Female Weight Range: 27 – 50 lbs

Border Collie Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-14 yrs

Border Collie Health Concerns

Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Hip Dysplasia, Pannus, Hypothyroidism, Osteochondritis Dissecans, Portosystemic Shunt, Epilepsy, Lens Luxation, Multidrug Resistance

Border Collie Temperament and Behaviour

The Border Collie is a very active, outgoing, and highly intelligent breed of dog. They are often described as having a “cat-like” personality due to their independence, intelligence, and high energy, but they can also be very loving and devoted. This breed requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy, and they can be destructive if bored.

Border Collie Activity Requirements

Border Collies are a high-energy herding dog, originally bred to work long hours herding sheep. Today, they are popular competition dogs and beloved pets. While many Border Collies do require a large amount of exercise and attention, others are perfectly happy to relax at home with their family. As a general rule, the younger a Border Collie is, the more exercise they will need. An adult or senior Border Collie may only require a short walk each day. If you are looking for a new pet, keep in mind that your dog’s energy level will likely change over time, often increasing as they mature. If you are an active person looking for a high-energy companion, a Border Collie may be right for you. If, however, you are looking for a more laid-back companion, you may want to consider another breed.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

2.5 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Border Collie is part of the Herding group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

Border Collie is part of the Pastoral group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

Border Collie is part of the Working group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

Border Collie is part of the Herding group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.