Border Collie

Average Height

46 - 56cm

Average Weight

12 - 20kg

Expected Lifespan

10 - 17 years

Known for herding cattle in the fields all day, the border collie is one of the most energetic breeds. In England and Scotland, this herding dog became one of the most valuable assets to have in the fields. The word collie directly refers to the sheepdog, which originates from Scottish jargon. The origins of the border collie go back to Britain. The border collies’ ancestors have been around for decades.

Intelligent, energetic, and alert are just some of the characteristics to describe this perfect breed. Border collies need plenty of exercise. They are not lazy dogs and can become bored when they haven’t gotten enough exercise. Border collies make great additions to a family, particularly families with young children. Young children being very energetic themselves, match the energy levels of a border collie and easily keep them stimulated.

The border collie is kind, loving, and playful. This breed loves to be surrounded by loved ones.
To avoid health complications, look for a reputable breeder before adding this lovely breed to your family.

The Border Collie Anatomy

Head

Head is of moderate width, with a distinct stop. Skull and Muzzle are similar in length. Muzzle is strong and tappers towards the nose. Mouth has a scissor bite, with a full complement of strong teeth. Ears are medium-sized and set well apart. They may be carried erect or semi-erect. Eyes are oval, moderate in size and set well apart. Eyes can be brown in colour or blue / partially blue in Merles. Nose is black but may be brown in brown-coloured dogs. Nostrils are well developed.

Body

Neck is strong and muscular. Slightly arches and broadens into the shoulders. Back is level, with a gently sloping croup. Chest is moderately broad, and reaches no further down than the elbow. Ribs are well sprung. Shoulders are well laid back. Forelegs are parallel when viewed from the front. Elbows are held close to the body. Pasterns are slightly sloping when viewed from the side. Hindquarters are muscular. Thighs are long and broad. Stifles and Hocks are well turned. Paws are oval in shape, with deep pads. Toes are moderately arched. Tail is moderately long, reaching the hock joint. They have a double-layered Coat. The outer coat is dense and can be wavy or straight, the undercoat is soft, short and weather resistant.

The Border Collie Coat and Colours

One colour throughout the entire coat.

  • Black
  • Blue
  • Brown
  • Gold
  • Red
  • Lilac

Two distinct colours on the coat.

  • White & black
  • White & red
  • White & blue
  • White & gold
  • White & brown

Three distinct colours on the coat.

  • White, black & tan
  • White, brown & tan
  • White, blue & tan

Black-tipped hairs; the background colour will most commonly be gold, silver, grey, or tan.

  • Sable Merle
  • White & sable

This pattern has random splotches of dark pigment that are overlaid over a lighter shade of the same colour.

  • Blue merle
  • Red merle
  • White & blue merle
  • White & red merle

Some Border Collie Traits

Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Sensitivity
Grooming Frequency
Shedding

Common Medical Conditions in Border Collies

This is when there is a malformation of the hip joint. The hip joint is made up of a ball…

This is when there is a lowered production and release of the the T3 and T4 hormones. The T3 (liothyronine)…

This is when there is a degeneration of the retina, or photoreceptors within the eye that aid in the ability…

This occurs when the lens of the dog’s eye becomes opaque and loses transparency; appearing cloudy. When the lens is…

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