If you’re looking for a new member to join your family, then the border collie might just be for you! This people-oriented and active dog is perfect for families or anyone with a big yard or property. Here’s everything you need to know about this happy-go-lucky pooch!
Breed Snapshot:
- Size Medium-sized dog (15-20kg)
- Coat Border Collies have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Twice a year (fall and spring) they shed excessively with the change of seasons. They need to see a groomer every 4-8 weeks!
- Energy Border Collies have tons of energy and need lots of exercise! They go a little stir crazy when they’re cooped up. The minimum exercise they require is 30-60 minutes, but preferably more. They’re excellent at playing fetch!
- Lifespan 12-15 years
- Country of origin They originated in Scotland but thrived on the borders of Scotland and England.
- Breed type and temperament They’re highly intelligent, active, energetic and athletic! Collies are a herding type breed and they often herd livestock and sheep.
- Other names Scottish Sheepdog
Great breed for
• Families / people-oriented
• Farm living / Working dogs
What is a Border Collie?
Border Collies didn’t become popular until the end of the 19th century when they were first presented at a sheepdog trial. They were recognized for being very obedient and intelligent, making them an ideal companion.
If you’re looking for a hiking / running / activities buddy, then the Border Collie is for you! They’re good with other dogs and will always be up for a game of fetch.
What do Border Collies look like?
In general, Border Collies are medium-sized dogs with a thick coat. They come in a few different colours including “Red Merle”, black and white, chocolate, smooth coated, tricolour (tan, black and white) and Australian red (red, blonde or recessive red). Males’ height ranges from 48 to 56 centimeters while the females 46-53 centimeters.
What makes Border Collies so special?
Border Collies are known as being the most intelligent dog. They are workaholics and are capable of learning an impressive amount of words and commands. They make great search and rescue dogs and are excellent actors (For example, the films Babe and Animal Farm feature Border Collie actors). On top of all this, Border Collies have broken all kinds of records. A Collie named Chaser knows the names of more than 1,000 objects!
How often do I need to groom my Border Collie?
During the heavy shedding months (spring and fall), we recommend brush your Border Collie daily. This will help with fur in your house as well as coat maintenance. During the other months, brushing once to twice a week is perfectly fine! If you do decide to bathe your pup, give its fur a gentle brush first and use tepid to warm water. When you buy shampoo for your Border Collie always make sure it’s dog-formulated.
Another tip for Border Collies is to trim their nails once a month! It can cause discomfort when they get too long.
How often should I walk my Border Collie?
Border Collies need, at the very least, one hour of exercise daily. Ideally two hours would be best! Spreading the activity throughout the day with a couple walks, including some time off-leash, is the best way for your Collie to thrive!
How do I train my Border Collie?
Because Border Collies are so intelligent and highly adaptable, they are very easy to train and enjoy the stimulation. It’s best to teach your dog at a young age while it’s absorbing all this new information. Using a reward-based approach and positive reinforcement works well for Border Collies!
With Pet Cloud, you can find a trainer that will make the whole process that much easier! They offer dog training classes in six-week, one hour sessions. A trainer will come to your house, making it convenient for you, and will use techniques and lessons in line with the RSPCA guide.
Quickfire Border Collie Questions
Can my Border Collie be left alone during the day?
Border Collies are not part-time or apartment dogs. They need full commitment, attention and love. When Collies are bored and don’t get enough exercise, they are known to chew walls and destroy furniture. They may demonstrate a strong desire to herd if you have another dog, cat or children!
Are Border Collies barkers?
Border Collies have a lot to say, especially when they aren’t feeling challenged. When they’re busy running, hiking or fetching, they’re way less barky. When they’re visually stimulated, they will bark. Keeping your Border Collie entertained and active is the best way to avoid barking!
What kind of health risks do Border Collies face?
Border Collies are fairly low in the health risk category but they can inherit Collie eye anomaly and epilepsy. Collie eye anomaly is a mild eye disease that rarely impairs vision. Both of these are more on the tame side and they normally have very good health!
Where can I get a Border Collie?
Once you’ve finally decided the Border Collie is the pup for you, there are a few things to consider! You can decide if you want to go through adoption or a breeder. If you end up adopting, be sure to check out the RSPCA adoption guide for more information.
If you want to go the breeder route, make sure they practice responsible practices and they’re not supporting the puppy farm industry. You can find more information with the RSPCA breeder guide.
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