Border Collie

Border Collie dog

Intense, highly intelligent herder known for its focus, agility, and work ethic.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Medium 30 - 55 lbs 18 - 22 inches 12 - 15 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: United Kingdom



Own a Border Collie? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a Border Collie? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.
  • This breed may be less suited to smaller living spaces.

The Border Collie developed in the border country between Scotland and England, where shepherds needed agile, intelligent dogs capable of controlling sheep across rugged terrain. Rather than being bred mainly for appearance, these dogs were selected for practical herding ability, including stamina, responsiveness, and the distinctive intense stare known as "eye." One dog had an especially important influence on the modern breed: Old Hemp, born in Northumberland in 1893. Owned by Adam Telfer, Hemp worked sheep more quietly and deliberately than many earlier sheepdogs and proved to be an exceptional sire. A large number of working Border Collies trace their ancestry to him. Competitive sheepdog trials, which became popular in Britain during the late 19th century, also helped identify and promote the most capable working dogs. The name Border Collie came into use during the early 20th century to distinguish these dogs from other collie types. Working organizations have traditionally placed herding ability ahead of physical uniformity, which helps explain why Border Collies can vary considerably in coat, colour, and appearance. Their extraordinary responsiveness and drive remain direct products of generations of demanding sheep work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Border Collie

The Border Collie is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The Border Collie tends to have a moderate level of shedding.

The Border Collie generally needs a moderate amount of routine grooming.

The Border Collie is generally a high-energy breed that tends to enjoy an active routine.

The Border Collie tends to need plenty of regular physical activity and mental stimulation.

The Border Collie is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The Border Collie generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The Border Collie may get along with other dogs with appropriate socialization and introductions.

The Border Collie is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The Border Collie may be less suited to apartment living and may benefit from more space.