Border Collies were bred to herd sheep. They have a lot of energy and stamina and love to work. They make a fantastic choice if you want to compete in agility or flying disc competitions or are looking for a running partner.
This is not a laid-back dog. They are at their happiest when being active or doing a job. They could run 50 miles when working, so this dog isn’t for cuddling and hanging around the house. They are intense dogs and relentless in a game of fetch. Do not get this breed if you don’t have the time to commit to keeping them happy.
They are herding dogs; they want to herd, chase and possibly nip anything that moves, including cats and children; having other animals in the house would be difficult. It is nearly impossible to train these instinctive traits out of them.
Border Collies are very intelligent, so it’s easy to train them, but they are sensitive and easily distracted by their surroundings. Your main problem will be providing enough work and stimulation for them.
They are friendly with children and love strangers. They should be OK with other dogs, but they may be better as the only dog in the household. They aren’t the best watchdogs and love strangers, so if you are looking for some protection, you might want to pick a different breed.
Border Collies have a double coat and they do shed pretty heavily. Their hair is slightly longer, so it becomes a problem during spring and autumn when they grow a new coat and the old one falls out. Brushing every day will help with the shedding.
Border Collie Dog Stats
Border Coolies originated in Northumberland, which is on the border of Scotland and England. The breed is developed for herding livestock, especially sheep.
- Size – 50cm – 56cm
- Weight – 25kg -30kg
- They live for 12-14 years