All About Your Border Collie: Care Guide and Breed Info
With first-place intelligence, athleticism, and charm, the Border Collie is the triple threat of the dog world. So skilled are they that there are dog agility shows in England with ABC classes to make competitions fair for breeds that include Anything But Collies.
Whether you have your very own overachiever on four legs or you are a fan of the breed, learn all about them in honor of National Border Collie Day.
How the Border Collie Breed Came to Be
The Border Collie originates from the British Isles, likely predated by large herding dogs imported by the Romans during their invasion over 2000 years ago, crossbred with small Spitz-type breeds introduced during the Viking Age from 800 to 1000 AD.
In 1893, English farmer Adam Telfer bred the grandfather of all modern Border Collies, an undefeated herding trial champion named Old Hemp. Old Hemp was renowned for his ability to silently read the herd with an intense stare, making highly calculated movements to avoid agitating the livestock. Old Hemp sired over 200 puppies, and every Border Collie descends from his bloodline.
Most will recognize the classic black and white coat pattern seen on the majority of Border Collies. All other coat colors and patterns are accepted according to the AKC breed standard, including merle, tricolor, sable red, and brindle.
The average Border Collie is about 30 to 50 pounds in weight and stands at about 20 inches at the shoulder. Males are typically slightly larger than females.
Common Health Issues in Border Collies
Border Collies are generally healthy dogs, with an average lifespan of about 12 years, though they are more susceptible to certain health issues.
Ivermectin Sensitivity
Like other Collie breeds, many Border Collies carry the genetic mutation MDR1 that makes them unable to metabolize ivermectin, a medication used to eliminate parasites. It can cause neurological symptoms like seizures. Do not give ivermectin unless your dog has been genetically tested.
Epilepsy
Recurring seizures are common in Collies. Seizures may be mild and infrequent for some dogs, while others may experience neurological damage, physical trauma, or premature death.
Inherited Eye Diseases
These include collie eye anomaly, progressive retinal atrophy, and persistent pupillary membranes. They are typically diagnosed by eight weeks of age and may cause mild to complete vision loss.
Border Collie Collapse
Border Collie Collapse is a nervous system disorder triggered by intense exercise in warm weather. It causes disorientation, unsteadiness, and collapse. Dogs with BCC should be retired from working or sports.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is an autoimmune condition that lowers thyroid hormone levels, causing coat dryness, weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy. It requires lifelong hormone supplementation.
How to Care for Your Border Collie
Border Collies need regular vet visits to monitor hereditary conditions and check for early signs of illness. Your veterinarian can recommend heartworm and parasite prevention options that do not contain ivermectin.
While often kept as pets today, Border Collies retain their strong herding instincts. Without proper boundaries and training, they can become overly intense or mischievous. They learn quickly, which makes early training essential.
With socialization, structure, and enrichment, Border Collies make wonderful companions. Agility and dog sports can help channel their famous energy.
Why We Love Border Collies
The Border Collie is highly communicative and can develop a vocabulary similar to that of a young child. They are devoted to their loved ones, eager to learn, and happiest when mentally stimulated.
Like other popular breeds, many are bred irresponsibly without genetic testing or consideration for temperament. Avoid purchasing a puppy from pet shops, puppy mills, backyard breeders, or unknown sources.
Seek a reputable breeder through the AKC Marketplace or the Border Collie Breed Club directory, ensuring they conduct proper health screenings. You can also adopt a Border Collie or herding mix from a shelter or breed rescue. For all the supplies you need for your Border Collie, go to 1800petmeds.
