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What is a Border Collie?

Sheri Cyprus
Sheri Cyprus

A Border Collie is a dog named for the border area of Scotland and England. This breed is medium-sized and usually black with white markings. Border Collies were originally bred as sheep herding dogs, but became pets after the 1860s, when Queen Victoria made the breed popular.

The Border Collie controls sheep with a hypnotic stare known as eye. Border Collies are extremely intelligent, energetic, agile and easy to train. This breed is ideal for an active life on a farm and is definitely not an apartment dog! Border Collies need praise and human companionship. Some work as drug and bomb detection dogs.

Border collies were originally bred to herd sheep.
Border collies were originally bred to herd sheep.

Border Collies that don't have enough mental stimulation and physical exercise are prone to destructive and obsessive behaviors. For example, some of these dogs may stare obsessively into mirrors or bite tires. Violently shaking and tearing up clothing or spinning in circles are other possible behaviors. Border Collies love to work alongside their human companion and need to stay active by jogging, hiking, swimming and/or helping out with farm chores.

Shyness will be likely if a border collie isn't socialized properly.
Shyness will be likely if a border collie isn't socialized properly.

Although most Border Collies have white feet, tail tip, chest and collar area on a black main color, other color mixes such as black and gray and red and white are also possible. The Border Collie's coat texture can be either smooth or rough. Regular brushing for this breed is a good idea since their hair tends to be fairly long.

All dogs need to be well-socialized from puppy hood, but it is said that if a Border Collie isn't socialized properly, shyness is likely. This breed should be exposed to other dogs as well as people and household activity from puppy hood. Properly socialized Border Collies tend to get along well with other dogs although they may still tend to be more aggressive with dogs of the same sex. This breed is also known to snap at strangers and animals other than dogs. Border Collies typically get along well with children, yet they often try to herd them by nipping at their heels!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Border Collie?

Border Collies are extremely intelligent and easy to train.
Border Collies are extremely intelligent and easy to train.

A Border Collie is a highly intelligent and energetic dog breed, renowned for its exceptional herding abilities. Originating from the Anglo-Scottish border region, these dogs are known for their intense gaze, or "eye," with which they control livestock. They are medium-sized with a double coat that can vary in color and pattern, and they require significant physical and mental stimulation.

What tasks are Border Collies bred for?

A Border Collie is usually black with white markings.
A Border Collie is usually black with white markings.

Border Collies were originally bred for herding livestock, particularly sheep. Their agility, intelligence, and instinctual drive to work closely with humans make them superb at this task. They are also used in various dog sports, search and rescue, and as service animals due to their trainability and versatility.

How much exercise does a Border Collie need?

Border Collies require a substantial amount of exercise due to their high energy levels. It is recommended that they get at least two hours of vigorous activity per day. This can include running, playing fetch, agility training, or other mentally stimulating activities to satisfy both their physical and mental needs.

Are Border Collies good family pets?

Border Collies can be excellent family pets for active households that can meet their exercise and mental stimulation needs. They are known for their loyalty and can be good with children if socialized properly. However, their herding instincts may lead them to try herding small children or other pets, so supervision and training are important.

What are some common health issues in Border Collies?

Border Collies are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. These may include hip dysplasia, collie eye anomaly, epilepsy, and deafness. Regular veterinary check-ups and health screenings can help catch and manage these conditions early on.

How long do Border Collies typically live?

Border Collies have a relatively long lifespan for dogs of their size, typically living between 12 to 15 years. Their longevity can be attributed to their active lifestyle and robust genetic makeup. Proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups contribute to their overall health and longevity.

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    • Border collies were originally bred to herd sheep.
      By: Alexey Stiop
      Border collies were originally bred to herd sheep.
    • Shyness will be likely if a border collie isn't socialized properly.
      By: DragoNika
      Shyness will be likely if a border collie isn't socialized properly.
    • Border Collies are extremely intelligent and easy to train.
      By: ksuksa
      Border Collies are extremely intelligent and easy to train.
    • A Border Collie is usually black with white markings.
      By: frank11
      A Border Collie is usually black with white markings.