Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

Herding group.

Weight:

30-44 pounds (13.5-20 kg).

Height:

18-21 inches at the shoulders.

Color(s):

Standard colors include black, red, blue, blue merle, chocolate, and black and tan. Sometimes these colors will appear with weight markings.

Coat:

Border Collies have a water resistant double coat of medium length.

Overview

Character:

Border Collies are hard-working, very intelligent animals that like to work closely with their handlers. Friendly and energetic, these dogs are excellent companions for active people.

Country of Origin:

England and Scotland.

History:

While the details of the Border Collie’s early history are not known, the breed was present in Great Britain during the 1700s. Used primarily as working dogs for herding sheep, this breed became popular in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, and then the rest of the world. The Border Collie was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1995.

Name:

No additional names.

Temperament:

Highly intelligent and active, Border Collies tend to become hyperactive and destructive when they don’t have enough to do. Loyal and protective of their owners, these dogs tend to be cautious of strangers.

Care

Training:

Border Collies are extremely intelligent and highly trainable.

Activity:

These dogs are super active and energetic. As working dogs, Border Collies like to have a job to do and require plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming hyperactive, bored, and destructive.

Ownership:

While Border Collies do make good family companions, they’re best suited to a home where they can receive lots of exercise every day. These dogs were bred to herd sheep in the country, but also perform well at dog sports such as flyball and agility. Potential owners should not consider adopting or buying a Border Collie unless they’re prepared to meet its high needs for exercise and mental stimulation.

Breeders

No breeders listed at this time.

List of dog breeds