Couch potatoes, beware! Border Collies are extremely active dogs who need active parents. These pups are working dogs, through and through. Don’t have sheep to herd near your place? You’ll need to find other ways to exercise your Border Collie or risk an unhappy and potentially misbehaved pup. If you can see agility training and/or lots of games with Frisbees and ball launchers in your future, this may be the breed for you.
Size:
Male: 30- 45 lbs. Female: 27-42 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
With their impressive stamina and high intelligence levels, Border Collies need two types of daily exercise —physical and mental. In addition to walks every day, these dogs need to run and play games like fetch or catching a Frisbee. Parents can also teach their dogs tricks to stimulate their Collie’s sharp mind. Because these dogs need so much stimulation, the breed is a big commitment. If you can’t help them expend their energy in productive ways, you may end up with teeth marks in your shoes.
Mess Factor:
The Border Collie is an average shedder and a minimal drooler. You’ll want to rev up your vacuum cleaner every week to clean up any loose dog hair.
Barking and Volume:
The Border Collie in general is a silent worker; however, some Collies can be quite the conversationalist.
Training Requirements:
The Border Collie’s phenomenal intelligence makes him a quick learner; however, these dogs are so smart that they can manipulate their parents. The Collie’s family must assert their leadership early on, but they also need to consider the dog’s sensitive nature. Some members of this breed can freeze and shut down if they receive a harsh reprimand. With the right training, the Border Collie will thrive…and can learn so much more than just a few cool tricks. Professional training is recommended.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors:This breed is susceptible to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy and deafness. Some dogs are also sensitive to certain types of anesthetics, which can be a problem if your dog needs surgery. *A responsible breeder can help minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: You can easily groom your Border Collie at home.
Training: Since Border Collies can be stubborn, you may want to enlist the help of a professional trainer. If you have experience training dogs, though, a puppy class should be sufficient.
Grooming Requirements:
Border Collies must be brushed two to three times a week to prevent matts and remove loose hair. Bathe when necessary.
Kid Compatibility:
These dogs are very sensitive to movement, which can make them a poor choice for families with animated young children. However, the Border Collie can do well with older, more considerate children.
Longevity:
12-15 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
Border Collies will most often get along well with other Border Collies but they may not always be as accepting of other dog breeds or other non-canine pets.
Friendliness: Towards People
Border Collies are very affectionate and loving towards their families and like to be the center of attention; however, they can also be a bit suspicious and aloof around strangers. If you don’t have a lot of time to spend with your dog, the Border Collie isn’t the breed for you.
BE PREPARED FOR: Countless hours spent exercising this dog who can frustrate you one minute and make you laugh the next.
