Border Collie
Great Britain, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–56 cm
- Weight
- 12–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Intelligent
- Energetic
- Focused
- Responsive
- Work-driven
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Border Collie
The Border Collie is a herding dog developed in the border country between Scotland and England to gather and move sheep. It is widely known for its intense eye contact, quick thinking and stamina. It is a medium-sized, athletic dog with either a rough or smooth coat, usually black and white though other colours occur. It is both a working sheepdog and a leading competitor in dog sports.
Temperament
Highly intelligent, focused and responsive, with a strong drive to work. It often bonds closely with its family, but may be reserved with strangers and can try to herd children or other pets if its energy is not directed well.
Exercise
Needs a lot of daily exercise and mental work: long walks, training, puzzle games or dog sports. A bored Border Collie may develop obsessive or destructive habits.
Grooming
Rough coats need brushing a few times a week; smooth coats are easier. Expect heavier shedding in spring and autumn.
Care & wellbeing
Plenty of mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 16 kg adult- Water
- 640 ml–960 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 900 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Border Collie
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A sheepdog developed on farms along the border country between England and Scotland to gather and control sheep with intense focus and stamina. Selection emphasised working ability and intelligence above appearance. It is widely known for sheepdog trials and for excelling in dog sports, and it needs plenty of mental and physical work.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Collie eye anomaly (CEA)
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Epilepsy
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
- DNA test for CEA
- DNA test for MDR1
Not every Border Collie is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Border Collie right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Border Collie get?
Adult Border Collies typically stand about 46–56 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 12–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Border Collies live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Border Collie need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Border Collie need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Border Collies easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Border Collies shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Border Collies good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Border Collie live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Border Collies have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, collie eye anomaly (cea), progressive retinal atrophy (pra). Not every Border Collie is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1977