Border Collie

The Brilliant, High-Energy Herding Star

The Border Collie is often called the world’s smartest dog — and with good reason.


Bred for herding sheep in the border regions of England and Scotland, these agile, energetic dogs have unmatched work drive and intelligence.

While their herding skills are legendary, Border Collies also excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and flyball.


But they’re not a “set-and-forget” breed — they need plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and a job to do.

Quick Stats

Size: Medium (14–20 kg)

Height: 46–56 cm at the shoulder

Lifespan: 12–15 years

Coat: Medium-length double coat, smooth or rough

Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, loyal

Best For: Active owners, working farms, dog sports

Exercise Needs: 1.5–2+ hours daily

Care Sheet

Breed Origins

Border Collies developed along the Anglo-Scottish border in the 18th and 19th centuries, bred to control livestock with stealth, precision, and that famous “eye” — an intense stare used to move sheep.


Heritage Highlights:

  • Descended from herding dogs brought to Britain by the Romans and later influenced by Viking spitz-type dogs.
  • Selective breeding produced a dog with supreme herding instinct, stamina, and trainability.


To this day, many working Border Collies are still bred for performance, not looks.

Appearance & Physical Traits

Border Collies are athletic and agile, built for speed and endurance.


  • Size: 46–56 cm tall, 14–20 kg.
  • Coat Types:
  • Rough coat: Medium length, feathering on legs, chest, and tail.
  • Smooth coat: Shorter, less feathering.
  • Colours: Black and white (classic), tricolour, red and white, blue merle, sable, and more.
  • Distinctive Features: Alert ears (pricked or semi-erect), bright intelligent eyes, and a lean, athletic frame.


Temperament & Personality

Border Collies are intelligent, energetic, and highly focused.


They bond strongly with their owners and love having a purpose.


While affectionate with their families, they’re often reserved with strangers. Their herding instincts can extend to people, children, and even cars — without proper training, they may try to “round up” anything that moves.


Training & Socialisation

Border Collies are extremely trainable but require consistent mental stimulation.


Boredom is their enemy.


Training Tips:

  • Use reward-based methods — they respond quickly to praise, treats, and toys.
  • Provide advanced training challenges — trick training, scent work, or competitive dog sports.
  • Begin early socialisation to prevent shyness or overprotectiveness.


A poorly trained and under-stimulated Border Collie can quickly develop problem behaviours like obsessive barking, digging, or chasing.

Exercise & Activity Needs

This is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1.5–2+ hours of exercise daily.


Best Activities:

  • Long runs, hikes, and off-leash play in secure areas.
  • Agility, flyball, and obedience competitions.
  • Herding trials or farm work.


Without enough physical and mental activity, Border Collies can become destructive or develop compulsive behaviours.

Grooming & Maintenance

Border Collies are moderate shedders year-round, with heavier shedding in spring and autumn.


  • Brushing: Twice weekly for smooth coats; more often for rough coats.
  • Bathing: Every 2–3 months or as needed.
  • Other Care:
  • Regular ear checks and cleaning.
  • Nail trims every 3–4 weeks.
  • Dental care to prevent tartar build-up.


Health & Lifespan

Border Collies live 12–15 years and are generally healthy, but can be prone to:


  • Hip dysplasia
  • Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Epilepsy
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) in joints



Genetic testing and responsible breeding can reduce the risk of inherited conditions.


Diet & Nutrition

Border Collies thrive on a high-quality diet that fuels their active lifestyle.


  • Adults: Two meals per day.
  • Puppies: Three to four smaller meals daily.
  • Recommended Diet: Balanced dry or raw diet with adequate protein.
  • Avoid: Overfeeding — they can gain weight quickly if not exercised enough.


Is a Border Collie Right for You?

Best suited for:

  • Active individuals and families
  • Owners with time for daily exercise and training
  • People interested in dog sports or working roles


Not ideal for:

  • First-time dog owners without the time to meet their needs
  • Sedentary households
  • People looking for a low-energy, “easy” dog


Border Collie Puppies – Buying & Adoption

If buying from a breeder:

  • Ask about herding vs show lines — herding lines often have higher energy.
  • Request health clearances for hips, eyes, and known genetic conditions.


Average price in Australia: $1,500–$3,500 depending on breeder, lineage, and training.


Adoption is an excellent choice — many Border Collies end up in rescues because their exercise needs weren’t understood.

Border Collie FAQs

Do Border Collies bark a lot?
They can, especially if bored or excited.


Are Border Collies good with kids?
Yes, but supervision is important — they may try to herd small children.



Do they shed a lot?
Moderately year-round, more during seasonal changes.

Max’s Comment

"Smartest dog in the world?


Probably.


But if you don’t keep them busy, they’ll redecorate your backyard… and not in a way you’ll like." – Grumpy Old Max 🐾

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