Border Collies: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
By: Dylan M. AustinHighly intelligent, affectionate, and active, Collies are great protectors and family dogs. If you're considering getting a Border Collie, Figo outlines what you need to know.
Origin
Border Collies emerged in the rugged borderlands between Scotland and England, where farmers needed exceptional herding dogs with unmatched intelligence and work ethic. Developed primarily during the late 19th century, these dogs descended from various British herding breeds, including the Highland Collie and the Cumberland Sheepdog. The term "collie" derives from the Scottish Gaelic word "cuilean," meaning useful dog - an apt description for these remarkably capable working animals.
The modern Border Collie's lineage is often traced back to a single dog named Old Hemp, born in Northumberland in 1893. Owned by Adam Telfer, Old Hemp displayed extraordinary herding abilities that revolutionized sheepherding techniques with his quiet, controlled style. Rather than barking and nipping, he used his intense stare – now known as "the eye" – to control sheep movements. This distinctive technique became a hallmark of the breed and remains prized among herding enthusiasts today.
While Border Collies initially gained recognition exclusively for their working abilities, they've since captured the hearts of families worldwide through their versatility and trainability. The International Sheep Dog Society was formed in 1906 to preserve the breed's working heritage, but it wasn't until 1976 that the breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in the UK. In America, the American Kennel Club finally granted full recognition in 1995, though many Border Collie enthusiasts continue to emphasize working ability over conformity to appearance standards, highlighting the ongoing balance between the breed's working roots and its growing popularity as a companion animal.
Appearance
Border Collies are a sight to behold, embodying agility, strength, and intelligence in their athletic frame. Known for their keen gaze and remarkable herding ability, these dogs are medium-sized, with a body that's slightly longer than it is tall, allowing them effortless fluidity and speed in their movements. Their double coat can vary between smooth and rough textures, catering to a range of working and weather conditions. The coat colors are diverse, with the classic being black and white, but they can also be seen in blue merle, red, and brindle, among others, often adorned with distinctive markings that add to their eye-catching appearance.
Their heads are well-proportioned to their bodies, with alert ears that can be fully pricked or partially folded, reflecting their attentive nature. The eyes of a Border Collie are one of their most expressive features, usually dark, but those with merle coloring may have blue or odd-colored eyes. These eyes are windows to an intelligent and often intense soul, mirroring their focus and determination.
A Border Collie's tail is another characteristic feature, typically carried low with an upward swirl at the end, wagging enthusiastically during moments of joy or when at work. Their overall appearance is one of balance and harmony, with no part being exaggerated or detracting from their ability to work tirelessly across diverse terrains.
The physical attributes of Border Collies not only make them exceptional working dogs but also versatile athletes in dog sports. Their appearance reflects their heritage and working lifestyle—built for stamina, speed, and agility, with a coat that protects them from the elements and a gaze that commands attention, making them one of the most recognizable and admired breeds in the canine world.
Similar breeds
If you're looking for other dogs with similar traits to a Border Collie, consider the Shetland Sheepdog, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, or Bearded Collie.
Are Border Collies hypoallergenic?
Border Collies are not hypoallergenic. They have a thick double coat that sheds frequently, which can cause allergies in some people.
However, regular grooming and bathing can help reduce the amount of dander and hair in their environment, which may help people with mild allergies tolerate being around them.
Looking for an allergy-friendly dog? We've got you covered with our guide to hypoallergenic breeds.
Temperament
Border Collies are known for their loyal, intelligent, and energetic nature. They are affectionate dogs that make great family pets. However, their herding instincts can get in the way of socializing with strangers and young children, and they can be big barkers when on alert at home.
Border Collies are worker dogs that love exercising and being active, which makes them great companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Border Collies need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Many Border Collies enjoy playing fetch, frisbee, and other games with their owners. They're also great runners, so taking them for a jog or dog-friendly hike can be a great way to bond while keeping you and your pup active.
Illness/health concerns
Border Collies are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues. Some common concerns include hip dysplasia, eye problems (such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and collie eye anomaly), epilepsy, allergies, and cancer.
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Regular veterinary checkups can also help catch these concerns early, making it easier to ensure that your Border Collie stays healthy.
How big do Border Collies get?
The average Border Collie can be as tall as 21 inches, weighing between 30 and 42 pounds.
The size of a dog in adulthood can be affected by factors such as age, gender, and activity levels, and it can be more difficult to estimate if the dog is a mixed breed.
Life expectancy
The average life expectancy of a Border Collie is about 12 to 15 years.
Regular veterinary visits and preventative care can help manage common health concerns and ensure that your Border Collie lives a long and healthy life.
Expected lifetime cost
The lifetime cost of a Border Collie can vary, but you can expect to spend around $20,000 throughout your dog's life. On average, that’s about $1,500 per year.
This cost can vary depending on food, routine vet visits, preventative medications, grooming, and other essential pet care items.
Estimated cost to insure
Pet insurance can help you manage unexpected medical expenses. The cost of insuring a Border Collie can vary based on age, health, and location. You can expect to pay around $30-$50 per month for coverage.
The good, the bad, the ugly
Are you considering getting a Border Collie? These dogs are known for their loyal, intelligent, and energetic personalities but can be a handful. Here are some traits and health factors to keep in mind:
Shedding: Border Collies have a medium-length double coat that sheds year-round. They’re beautiful dogs but require regular brushing to keep their coats healthy and shiny. During shedding season, you may need to brush them more frequently to help manage the hair they leave around your home.
Need for Attention: Border Collies are a social breed and require a lot of attention from their owners. They can be destructive or develop behavioral issues when left alone without mental and physical stimulation. Spending time with your Border Collie and keeping them busy is key to their happiness.
Health issues: Border Collies are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye issues, and epilepsy. A balanced diet and exercise can help mitigate some of these issues. Still, they should be considered before getting a Border Collie.
Always on Alert: Border Collies are vigilant, making them great protectors quick to detect unusual activity. While this makes them effective watchdogs, it also means that they can be prone to excessive barking. Border Collies are smart, though, so they can be trained to know when it's appropriate to bark and when to be quiet. It’s also worth noting that they’re particularly reactive to noises like fireworks, which can result in destructive, panicking behavior.
Concerns with Children: While Border Collies can make great family pets, they should not be left alone with young kids. Their herding instincts can cause them to chase and nip at children. Displays of affection like jumping and roughhousing can be more intense than intended. Supervising interactions between Collies and children is important until they both know how to play together safely and respectfully.
Border Collies make great companions, but like all breeds, each dog has its own traits and temperament to be aware of. A Border Collie can make a great pet with the right training and care.
So you want a Border Collie...
Before bringing one of these energetic working dogs home, consider their unique behaviors and other challenges that may present themselves when raising and training a Border Collie.
If you're looking for a loyal, intelligent, and active dog, a Border Collie might be the right breed to be your family’s affectionate companion.
