Border Collie

The Border Collie’s roots can be traced back to the Anglo-Scottish border region in the 1700s, where they were selectively bred for their herding ability, stamina, and intelligence. The breed name was coined in the 20th century to distinguish them from other collie types. One of the most famous Border Collies, "Old Hemp," born in 1893, is considered the founding father of the modern breed. Today, Border Collies are often used in competitive agility, obedience trials, and search and rescue — and are still top working dogs on farms worldwide.

Border Collies require moderate grooming depending on coat type. Their coats shed year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes.

Grooming Checklist:

• 🧼 Brushing: 2–3 times per week; daily during shedding seasons
• 🛁 Bathing: Every 2–3 months or as needed
• 👂 Ears: Clean weekly to prevent buildup
• 🐾 Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks
• 🦷 Teeth: Brush 2–3 times weekly

This is one of the most active breeds in existence. Border Collies need intensive daily exercise — not just physical, but mental stimulation too.

• Daily Exercise: 1.5–2 hours minimum
• Ideal Activities: Agility courses, off-leash running, fetch, herding trials, frisbee, trick training
• Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, obedience drills, scent work
• Warning: Without adequate stimulation, they are prone to obsessive behaviors (chasing lights, spinning, chewing).

Border Collies are incredibly responsive and can learn commands with few repetitions. Their intelligence makes them ideal for advanced obedience and tricks.

Training Recommendations:

• Begin training early to prevent over-dominance or obsessive behavior
• Use varied routines — they get bored easily
• Avoid overly repetitive tasks
• Incorporate agility, scent work, and herding cues
• Train using hand signals and verbal commands — they excel at both

💡 Note: They are highly sensitive to tone and body language, making calm, confident leadership essential.

Border Collies have fast metabolisms and require high-quality, protein-rich diets to support their energy levels.

• Diet Type: High-protein kibble or fresh food diets
• Portion Sizes: 1.5–2.5 cups daily, divided into two meals
• Supplements: Consider joint support and omega-3s for active dogs
• Avoid: Low-quality fillers — can lead to digestive issues and low stamina

Border Collies can be found through breed-specific rescues or reputable breeders.

Tips for Prospective Owners:

• Ask breeders about temperament — avoid overly high-strung lines if you're not working them
• Ensure health testing: eyes (CEA, PRA), hips (OFA certified), and MDR1 gene
• Rescue organizations include:
  • Border Collie Rescue Ontario
  • All Border Collie Rescue (North America)

1. Are Border Collies good family dogs?
Yes, especially with older children. They can be overly energetic and herding with toddlers, so supervision and socialization are key.

2. How much daily exercise does a Border Collie need?
At least 1.5–2 hours daily of vigorous activity, plus mental stimulation.

3. Are Border Collies hypoallergenic?
No. They shed consistently and are not considered hypoallergenic.

4. Can Border Collies live in apartments?
Only if their physical and mental stimulation needs are fully met — they are not ideal for apartment life.

5. What are common Border Collie health issues?
Hip dysplasia, epilepsy, Collie eye anomaly (CEA), and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are common.