Border Collie

Alternative names: No commonly known alternative names.

History of the breed

The Border Collie is one of the most respected herding dogs in the world, originating from the border region between Scotland and England. Developed to herd sheep on rugged hills, this breed has been an indispensable companion for shepherds for centuries. The Border Collie is known for its intelligence, exceptional working drive, and ability to make independent decisions. Today, it is both a popular working dog and a valued companion.

Character and temperament

The Border Collie is an energetic, intelligent, and loyal dog. It is known for its tireless work ethic and natural obedience. This breed is sociable and bonds strongly with its family, but also has an independent side. Border Collies are playful, alert, and friendly, but can be reserved with strangers. They have a strong need to be occupied and thrive in an active environment.

Physical characteristics

Height at the withers : 48-56 cm (male), 46-53 cm (female).
Weight : 14-20 kg.
Coat : Two varieties: medium length and smooth, both with a dense undercoat.
Colors : Various combinations, including black and white, red and white, tricolor, and merle.
Sizes for collars and harnesses : Neck circumference 35-45 cm, chest circumference 60-75 cm.

Care

The Border Collie requires regular grooming, depending on its coat type. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and tangles. During shedding season, daily brushing is recommended. Check its ears regularly, trim its nails as needed, and ensure it has good dental care.

Movement and activity

The Border Collie is one of the most active dog breeds and needs intensive daily exercise. Long walks, running, dog sports like agility and flyball, and mental challenges like obedience training and tracking are essential. Without sufficient stimulation, they can become bored and develop destructive behavior.

Health

The Border Collie is generally a healthy breed, but may be prone to:

Hip dysplasia
Eye problems, such as collie eye anomaly (CEA) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Epilepsy

The average life expectancy is 12-15 years.

Power supply

A balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins and healthy fats is important. An adult Border Collie eats an average of 300-500 grams of food per day, depending on their weight, age, and activity level. Divide the food into two meals to prevent digestive problems.

Training and socialization

The Border Collie is exceptionally intelligent and responds well to training. He learns quickly and enjoys performing tasks. Positive reinforcement and varied training methods work best. Early socialization is essential to ensure he feels comfortable in different situations and interacts well with other animals and people.

Suitability for owners

The Border Collie is perfect for active and experienced dog owners who are willing to invest a lot of time and energy in exercise, training, and interaction. They're ideal for people who enjoy dog sports or need a working dog. This breed is less suited to an inactive lifestyle or small apartments, as they need plenty of space and activity to thrive. They're a good fit for families with older children who appreciate their playful and energetic nature. Border Collies need an owner who understands their intelligence and work ethic and can meet their physical and mental needs.

Share your experience with us!

Do you own a Border Collie? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!