Border collies were bred for sheep herding and originated in 1700’s near the border of England and Scotland. It is believed that the Border Collie’s ancestors were other types of collies such as the Bearded Collie and Scotch Collie.
Today, they are still popular working dogs but are also loved family pets. Due to their trainability, Border Collies are often used for Police Dogs, Bomb Detectors, Search and Research Dogs and Guide Dogs.
The Border Collie is a muscular but nimble breed with almond eyes, upright ears and a feathered tail. Due to their small frame yet muscular build, the Border Collie is extremely agile, balanced and durable making it the perfect working dog. It is bred in both the rough coat, a medium-length and feathered coat, and the smooth coat which is shorter and coarser.
Border Collies are highly intelligent, learn quickly and respond well to praise. When they have a job to do, they thrive. They love to run and if they’re not given the opportunity and left without space or company, this breed will become unhappy and destructive.
They’re protective of their family and territory and make excellent watchdogs. However, they tend to be nippy due to their natural herding instincts.
Border Collies are a very hardy and healthy breed. However, like most breeds, they can have some health issues. Breeders should screen for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, progressive renal atrophy, deafness, epilepsy, collie eye anomaly, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis and trapped neutrophil syndrome.
Check this breed’s ears regularly for signs of infection and the teeth should be brushed regularly. Border Collie’s coats should be groomed twice a week and daily during shedding season.
This breed requires vigorous daily exercise.
| Size | medium-sized |
| Weight | 18kg – 20kg |
| Coat | Rough coat and smooth coat- Both dense, weather-resistant double coats |
| Colour | Black with or without white, red and white, solid colour, bi-colour, tri-colour, merle and sable |
| Lifespan | 12 – 15 years |
| Temperament | Energetic, intelligent and protective |