Border Collie - Temperament, Traits, Personality & More
Sheep dogs, sheep herders or herding dogs. However you recognise them, the Border Collie is our energetic bundle of joy that we’re newly naming the taskmaster.
Border Collies originate from the Anglo-Scots, between the English and Scottish border. They were bred to herd and sure are good at it! Now known as the best herding dog in the world, our active friends are workaholics with a strong desire to keep people together. Popular for their good looks and medium size, they make for wonderful family dogs given that they have the freedom to do what they do best – run!
What does a Border collie look like?
Border Collies are often mistaken for Australian Shepherds due to their similar appearance, but they have distinguishing traits that set them apart. Border Collies typically live for 12-15 years.
Male Border Collies usually reach around 56 cm in height, while females are slightly shorter at 51 cm. They are lighter than they look, with males weighing between 13-21 kg and females weighing 13-19 kg.
One key feature is their ears, which stand upright with a slight tip at the top, stiffening by around six months of age. Border Collies come in a variety of colours, including black (with or without white), red and white, solid, bi-colour, tri-colour, merle, and sable. Their coat length varies based on whether they are short-haired or long-haired, but all have a double coat that provides protection in chilly environments.
The length of their fur can range from sleek and smooth in short-haired Collies to a fuller, more flowing appearance in long-haired ones. Regular grooming is needed as they shed year-round, with increased shedding during seasonal transitions.
Their coats are doubled and straight haired. Brush often to minimise the shedding but keep a close eye on the basics (nail and ear care).
How is the temperament of Border Collie dogs?
Border Collie dogs have a natural lively nature. They are incredibly intelligent and their focus is next to none which makes them quick learners. In fact, they want to learn. They love to be challenged and given a job to do, if they are busy then they are happy!
A bored Border Collie with little mental or physical stimulation can quickly become a destructive one. They are quick to excel in dog competitions and performance activities such as agility, obedience and flying disc competitions. You’ll often find them in the number one spot at these events!
This medium dog breed can also be protective. Their herding instincts make them wary of strangers and sensitive to sound, meaning they’re excellent watchdogs. Their herding traits involve an intense stare, creeping movements and gathering behaviour.
Plenty of socialisation from a young age is important to prevent aggression towards those that are not necessarily a threat. Activities that are demanding and interesting as well as obedience training will help to keep your Border occupied and respectful.
In short, this wonderful dog breed’s traits include:
- active
- high energy
- quick learner
- smart
- agile
If you’re an indoors and low-activity person, Border Collies are not the dog breed for you. They need social interaction, mental stimulation, physical activity and a high-energy individual to match their demands.
Border Collies are highly energetic dogs, requiring at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise daily to stay healthy and happy. This includes a mix of physical activities like running, walking or playing, along with mental stimulation such as puzzle toys, obedience training or agility courses.
Border Collies thrive in environments where they have space to run freely and tasks that engage their intelligence. Without adequate exercise, they may become bored or engage in destructive behaviours. Simply leaving this breed of dog to their own devices is out of the question.
Are Border Collies prone to any diseases?
Whilst every dog has the ability obtain a disease throughout their life, Border Collies have a few that they are more prone to.
Hip and elbow dysplasia is the most common problem that a Border Collie has to deal with. This joint disease is mostly inherited from their parents. It is a condition where the hip socket doesn’t fully cover the ball portion of the connecting bone. Because of this, the joint is partially dislocated, causing wear to the joint over time. It often leads to arthritis. Osteochondritis Dissecans, (OCD) is another joint condition in which bone underneath the cartilage of a joint dies due to lack of blood flow, causing pain and hindering of joint motion.
Here at Petz Park, we know just how common joint problems really are. That’s why we formulated a joint product - Hip + Joint for Dogs – that is loved by thousands:
Collie eye anomaly and Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are two eye diseases that these farm dogs may experience in their lives. Also genetically passed down, both can have serious effects. Whilst they are manageable or may not be progressive, they are important to know about from your breeder or rescue group upon deciding on your dog.
We already know that the Border Collie is frighteningly smart and so adapting to these problems may seem like nothing to them. Ensuring they stay safe if experiencing either of these should be priority.
Epilepsy is another problem that is seen in our Border Collie friends and can usually be detected from an early age. It is another condition which is inherited and often seen in the form of seizures. Medication is used to manage this.
Border Collies are kind, excitable and free. They are suited to a country style of living or an active person. With the right care, nutrition and training, you’ll be well on your way to having a best friend for life.
And if you don’t mind being outsmarted by your dog every once in a while, then a Border Collie may well be the dog for you!
