Border Collie
The Border Collie stands as one of the world's most intelligent dog breeds, a reputation built through centuries of selective breeding on the farms of the Anglo-Scottish border.
Developed to herd sheep with remarkable precision, these medium-sized dogs combine athletic builds with sharp, instinctive minds and an unwavering desire to work.
25-34kg
Weight
Medium
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Border Collie
Weighing 25–34 kg and standing 51–61 cm tall, Border Collies feature medium-length coats that shed regularly and come in various colours, most commonly black and white. What truly sets this breed apart is its exceptional temperament. Border Collies are deeply loyal and affectionate with their families, forming strong bonds with their owners and typically making excellent companions for children. They are quick learners, eager to please, and naturally clean dogs. However, potential owners must understand that these dogs thrive on purpose. With over two hours of daily exercise and consistent mental stimulation required, they excel in agility, obedience and sheepdog trials. Without adequate challenge, their considerable intelligence and energy can lead to boredom-related behavioural problems. The Border Collie is an extraordinary companion for active, experienced owners who can provide the engagement and structure these remarkable dogs need. They are not suited to sedentary lifestyles or homes where they cannot fulfil their inherent working drive.
Border Collie at a Glance
- Group
- Pastoral
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 25–34 kg
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- More than 2 hours per day
- Origin
- Great Britain
- Colours
- Black, White, Blue, Blue Merle, Brindle, Lilac, Red Merle, Chocolate, Liver, Sable Merle, Gold, Red
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Border Collie Temperament
The Border Collie is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, combining sharp instincts with a genuine love of human company. Energetic and enthusiastic, it thrives when given a purpose, whether that is herding, agility, obedience or simply an active outdoor lifestyle. Border Collies are loyal and affectionate with their families and tend to be excellent companions for children. They are quick to learn and usually easy to train, but require consistent mental and physical stimulation to remain content. Without adequate challenge, boredom can lead to unwanted behaviour. They are naturally clean dogs and form deeply loyal bonds with their owners.
Border Collie Lifestyle
The Border Collie is comfortable in a smaller house and needs a good-sized, secure garden. They are equally happy in town or country.
Dog Food for Border Collie
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Nutrition & Diet
Border Collie’s need for daily physical exercise is considerably higher than in most dog breeds. Since they will easily burn calories and use more energy than some other dogs, you should feed your Border Collie a diet with appropriate levels of protein, fat and carbohydrates. Adult . For a grain-free option, & Coat can both be great choices for your Border Collie. Keep in mind that not all dogs are the same. While choosing a diet take into account the activity level of your dog, individual biology and current weight of your dog. Monitor your dog’s weight and make changes if necessary. Do remember to give your dog a transition period whenever you’re changing the food you give to prevent any issues with the digestive system.
Recommended Food for Border Collie
Border Collie Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Border Collie weighing around 30 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.22 - £5.57
Per month
£157 - £167
Per year
£1906 - £2032
Border Collie Characteristics
The Border Collie is built for activity and needs owners who can keep up and is eager to please and takes to training naturally. They are brilliant with children, but cope with some alone time if properly settled. The coat requires moderate upkeep and produces a reasonable amount of loose hair. They are a highly intelligent breed that needs mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Border Collie Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptionally intelligent and fast to pick up complex tasks
- Outstanding in herding and canine sports
- Forms a deep bond with their primary owner and is very affectionate
- Adapts well to active, outdoor lifestyles
Cons
- Needs significant daily exercise and mental challenges to stay balanced
- Not suited to first-time owners given their high demands
- A strong herding instinct can lead to chasing or nipping behaviours
- Can develop separation anxiety without enough companionship and stimulation
