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Border Collie

Herding Group

Affectionate, loyal, and playful

Breed: Border Collie

iHeartDogs is Your #1 Source for Border Collie Lover Gifts – Border Collie Shirts, Border Collie Sweatshirts, Border Collie Mugs, Border Collie Jewelry, Border Collie Memorial Products & More!

Each Purchase Helps Provides Donated Food to Shelter Dogs!

Since 2013, iHeartDogs has supported rescues and shelters through each purchase in our Border Collie gifts store. Shop border collie t-shirts for him, border collie shirts for her, border collie mugs, border collie hoodies & sweaters, border collie jewelry, and border collie pet memorial gifts.

In our iHeartDogs Dog Health Supplements store, you’ll find Hip & joint supplements for your border collie, border collie probiotics, CBD for border collies, border collie allergy supplements & fish oil, and border collie dental chews & cleaners.

With the cost of veterinarian care skyrocketing, make sure you compare pet insurance plans for your border collie. In recent years, many new pet insurance companies have entered the market and pet insurance for your border collie has become more affordable.

Doggy Must Haves

Hemp Oil For Dogs

Dog Hip & Joint Supplements

Dog Allergy Supplements

Dog Toys

Senior Dog Care & Pain Relief

All Natural Dog Food Toppers

10 Best Supplements for a Senior Border Collie

We all want as many years with our border collies as possible. As your border collie ages, you may be looking for additional ways to support their health. The following list of supplements are among the top recommended products for senior border collies. As always, be sure to consult your own veterinarian before making any changes to your border collie’s dietary or medical regimen. 1. Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Supporting Your Senior Border Collie’s Aging Joints Joint pain and arthritis … Read more

UPDATE: Hero Police K9/ Netflix Star Succumbs To “Sudden, Untreatable Illness”

Updated 5/16/22 Just two months after a movie based on her life premiered on Netflix, Ruby the hero police dog has passed away. According to a Facebook post from the Rhode Island State Police, K-9 Ruby was put to sleep following a “sudden, acute, and untreatable illness.” The story of the remarkable pooch and her handler Cpl. Daniel O’Neil inspired the Netflix film, Rescued By Ruby. Before joining the force, Ruby, an Australian Shepherd and Border Collie mix, was an … Read more

8 Dog Breeds For Experienced Owners Only

Finding the perfect dog to fit into your family is about more than bringing home the first pretty face you see. There are some dog breeds for experienced owners only – and for good reason. You need to think about your life and choose a dog that’ll be happy in the kind of home you can provide. To start, are you an individual, or do you have a family with children? Do you spend your free time being active, or … Read more

Border Collie Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

Average Size of Female: Height: 18 – 21 inches, Weight: 30 – 45 pounds Occasionally seen: Cerebellar abiotrophy, ceroid lipofuscinosis, deafness Major concerns: CHD Minor concerns: PRA, lens luxation, CEA, PDA, OCD, PPM Suggested tests: Hip, eye Average Size of Male: Height: 20 – 23 inches, Weight: 30 – 45 pounds Life span: 10 – 14 years Brief History on Border Collie Origin There was a large variety of sheepdogs in Great Britain around the 1800s, each of which had … Read more

UPDATE: Abandoned Dog Who Went On To Save 100 Koalas From Bushfires Honored

Remember Bear, the rescue dog who saved 100 koalas during the Australian “Black Summer” bushfires of 2019? Bear is a dog surrendered by his family because of his obsessive compulsive tendencies and high energy. The Border Collie/Koolie mix went on to use his drive and special detection skills to save animals at risk of perishing in the devastating fires. At the House of Lords this week, Bear earned a special medal from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). As … Read more

Border Collies Working To Replant Forests Destroyed By Wildfire

Border Collies are known for their focus and drive to work.  A group of these herding dogs in Chili is working to make a major impact on the environment. And they are having a blast while doing it! Wildfires Wiped Out Large Areas of Forest In 2017, wildfires swept through the forests across the entire country of Chile. Recorded as the worst wildfires in the country’s history, more than 1.4 million acres of forest were burned. Evacuations were necessary, at … Read more

10 Dog Breeds That Can Be Extra Challenging For First-Time Owners

There’s no doubt that every dog has his or her own unique personality, but genetics play a partial role in determining different traits. While there are exceptions to every rule, in general, some high-energy working or guard dog breeds may be more challenging for first-time owners to manage. The dogs below usually do best with strong leadership, boundaries, and lots of early, positive socialization with people and pets. If you’re looking for a pup who’ll sit peacefully by your side … Read more

Thanks To You, Pepper Can’t Stop Smiling!

Part of every sale through theiHeartDogs store is donated to GreaterGood, which helps support various charities like START Rescue. Stories like the one below are made possible with your help! Check out all the animals iHeartDogs fans and shoppers like you have helped save here. Even though her family surrendered her to the Tulare Shelter in California, Pepper kept smiling. Overcrowded shelters like this one often put healthy dogs on death row to make room. No way that could be this sweet girl’s … Read more

Border Collie Finally Goes Home After 10 Years In A Shelter

Bess is a ten-year-old Border Collie who was in residence at Last Chance Animal Shelter in Edenbridge, Kent since she was a puppy. After ten long years without a family to call her own, things finally changed for Bess. This feisty girl had a run of bad luck that left her hard to place but at long last, the right, patient family came along to take her home. It All Started When Bess Ran Away and Got Hit by a … Read more

Team of Border Collies Work To Keep Airline Passengers And Birds Safe

A highly skilled and expertly trained working dog will soon be setting off for an assignment in the Hawaiian Islands. He has been training for months with Goose Masters in Franklinville, North Carolina and will join two other working dogs and kennel mates already working in Kauai. These 3 Border Collies will make up a team that is charged with the important task of keeping airline passengers, crew, and a species of protected birds safe at the island’s airport.  Nene Birds Were Settling … Read more

UPDATE: Hero Police K9/ Netflix Star Succumbs To “Sudden, Untreatable Illness”

Updated 5/16/22 Just two months after a movie based on her life premiered on Netflix, Ruby the hero police dog has passed away. According to a Facebook post from the Rhode Island State Police, K-9 Ruby was put to sleep following a “sudden, acute, and untreatable illness.” The story of the remarkable pooch and her handler Cpl. Daniel O’Neil inspired the Netflix film, Rescued By Ruby. Before joining the force, Ruby, an Australian Shepherd and Border Collie mix, was an … Read more

21 Dog Breeds That Will Chew On Everything You Hold Dear

Any dog might decide to chew up your favorite shoes if he gets bored, but some breeds are notorious chewers. If you already have one of the breeds on this list, you might be familiar with their tendencies to chew. If you’re deciding what breed would best suit your family, keep in mind that the dogs on this list may need a little bit more attention, exercise, or training to avoid chewing things they shouldn’t. With that in mind, here … Read more

8 Of The Healthiest Dog Breeds

The right diet, adequate exercise, regular vet exams—it isn’t always enough to guarantee a dog’s health. You can do everything right, but some dogs are simply prone to having health troubles. There’s no scientific way to determine which dog breeds are the healthiest of them all. Yet, there are some that stand out for having few major health issues. Dogs already have shorter lifespans than what we’d like. We do everything we can to keep them around for as long … Read more

The 20 Most High-Maintenance Dog Breeds

You may want a dog that you can teach a few tricks, take for a couple of short walks a day, and who will snuggle with you every night. If your dog is on this list of high-maintenance dog breeds, however, you might get more than you bargained for. Some dogs are high maintenance because they need massive amounts of exercise. Some dogs are high maintenance because they require a lot of grooming. Some dogs are high maintenance because they are … Read more

Dog Who Visited Dying Owner In Hospital Gets Groomed Before Attending The Funeral

The story of a terminally-ill grandfather who was allowed a final visit from his beloved Border Collie, Shep, has captured hearts around the world this week. Shauni Piggott, the owner of the House of Howlers Dog Grooming service, was just one of those hearts that was touched. She told The Courier: “I’ve groomed Shep a couple of times in the past and I could see how much he meant to Mr Robson and the family. When I saw the video of them in … Read more

8 Dog Breeds For Experienced Owners Only

Finding the perfect dog to fit into your family is about more than bringing home the first pretty face you see. There are some dog breeds for experienced owners only – and for good reason. You need to think about your life and choose a dog that’ll be happy in the kind of home you can provide. To start, are you an individual, or do you have a family with children? Do you spend your free time being active, or … Read more

11 Dog Breeds That Make Great Running Partners

Waking up for an early morning run and spending weekends improving your endurance will be a lot more fun when you have a running partner matching your pace. You can cajole your two-legged friends into being your mental motivation, but dogs have long since been prized partners when it comes to everyday exercise. They’re athletic and enthusiastic, and the right dog will push you toward achieving your goals. They won’t bail on your early morning runs, and you’ll never hear … Read more

Choosing The Best Joint Supplement for a Border Collie – 6 Things You Must Know

#1: For Maximum Efficacy, Choose a Supplement for Your Border Collie with Multiple Active Ingredients When most people think of a joint supplement for their border collie, glucosamine comes to mind. And while glucosamine is the most popular active ingredient, other powerful nutraceuticals include MSM, chondroitin, and turmeric (curcumin). If your supplement contains only one or two of these, you may be missing potential benefits. Different dogs respond to different treatments, so when in doubt, offer a broad spectrum of nutrients. #2: … Read more

Border Collies Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

Average Size of Female: Height: 18 – 21 inches, Weight: 30 – 45 pounds Occasionally seen: Cerebellar abiotrophy, ceroid lipofuscinosis, deafness Major concerns: CHD Minor concerns: PRA, lens luxation, CEA, PDA, OCD, PPM Suggested tests: Hip, eye Average Size of Male: Height: 20 – 23 inches, Weight: 30 – 45 pounds Life span: 10 – 14 years Brief History on Border Collie Origin There was a large variety of sheepdogs in Great Britain around the 1800s, each of which had … Read more

Eager Sheepdog-In-Training Herds Flock Into Owner’s Home

A 7-month-old Border Collie named Rocky has quite a passion for his new career as a sheepdog! His owner, Rosalyn Edwards of Devon, England was working in her kitchen on October 25 when a strange sound caused her to turn around. There, standing behind her, were nine sheep and one very proud herding-dog-in-training! It turns out Edwards’ husband and son had gone out into the fields and forgotten to close the gate behind them. The efficient young sheepdog took advantage … Read more

Doctor “Prescribes” Dog To Obese Man & It Saves His Life

In 2010, Sales Manager Eric O’Grey’s health was in serious danger. He was just 51, but years of carrying nearly 200 extra pounds of weight had taken its toll. O’Grey had Type II Diabetes, high cholesterol, unregulated blood pressure, and was taking 15 different medications each day. He sought the advice of a naturopathic doctor and was shocked by her unconventional prescription. She told him to get a dog. “She knew my underlying problem wasn’t medical, it was being reclusive,” … Read more

5 Things To Know About Your Herding Breed Dog

Border Collies, Corgis, German Shepherds, and Australian Cattle Dogs are a few of the most popular breeds that make up the AKC’s Herding Group. Whether you have a purebred pup or suspect your rescue dog has some herding breed ancestry, knowing more about the group will help you raise your dog. Herding dogs are renowned for their ability to move herds of animals more than twice their size, but it’s their loving nature and loyalty that makes them popular family … Read more

Shelter Puppy With Unusually Large Head Sparks DNA Debate

When a litter of four stray puppies arrived at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley (HSSV) in June, the staff instantly noticed that one of the pups was not like the others. While his three littermates bore the characteristics of mini Border Collie mixes, the pooch they named “Bighead” had short, chubby legs like a Basset Hound – and, you guessed it, a very big head! Lauren Gallagher works in the HSSV finance department and has fostered countless dogs for … Read more

Older Shelter Dog Was Overlooked Until One Veteran Gave Her A Chance

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  Oreo is an 8-year-old dog. In the shelter, potential adopters always overlooked her due to her age. Her ship finally came in when Sheena, active duty Navy, discovered the Border Collie mix at one of Pets for Patriots’ East Coast shelter partners.   Sheena serves in one of the busiest ports in the … Read more

7 Dog Breeds With Sensitive Souls

When we call a dog “sensitive,” we don’t mean it in a bad way. We’re just talking about dogs that are a little bit more emotionally delicate than others. Some dogs handle mild punishment very well, while others crumble apart at so much as a dirty look. This just means they’re very sensitive toward their owners, which is usually a good thing! If you’re looking for a dog that’s very receptive to your emotions, look no further than this list! … Read more

Grief Therapy Puppy-In-Training Instinctively Comforts Mourners

The death of a loved one is extremely stressful to say the least, and devoting your life to easing mourners through the process can also take a heavy toll. That’s why Melissa Unfred, a funeral professional in Austin, Texas, decided to adopt a rescue puppy. Kermit became an instant comfort and source of stress relief for her, and Unfred soon realized that he had the calm, perceptive demeanor of a natural-born grief therapy dog. Kermit has already earned his canine … Read more

The Famous Hugging Dogs Added A New Member To Their Pack!

Since you’re a dog lover, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Envy and Zain, two rescue Border Collies that gained internet fame with their picture-perfect looks and hugging poses. Now, the Pennsylvania pups have added a new member to the pack: meet Trek! A post shared by Envy, Zain, & Trek (@kelly_bove) on Jan 9, 2017 at 5:38pm PST According to their photographer human’s Instagram, Trek was adopted from Glen Highland Farm in New York, the same rescue where Zain was … Read more

Giving This To Your Border Collie Daily Could Help Alleviate Painful Skin Allergies

If your border collie has allergies, you know how painful it can be. Not just for your pup, but for you as well. It’s difficult to see your companion suffer through testing, pain and potentially life-threatening allergic reactions. Determining what your dog is allergic to can be a long and difficult process, and some allergies may be mild and go undiagnosed. However, if your dog has severe or even moderate allergies, you know the challenges faced trying to keep your … Read more

3 Amazing Ways To Honor A Border Collie Who Passed Away

Saying goodbye to someone you love is one of the hardest things that you will ever deal with in life. And that’s not just for humans, but also for our furry family members. Losing a border collie many times leaves an irreplaceable hole in our heart, regardless of all the memories that you have of times cherished together. But thankfully there are ways to commemorate, and even honor our best friends. Above all, it’s important to remember them for who they were and … Read more

7 Dog Breeds That Need The Most Attention

While every dog breeds needs human interaction, there are some that are a little bit more independent than others. Every dog is an individual, but certain dogs were bred to work alongside humans all day long, such as herding and hunting dogs, and others were used for solitary work, such as guard dogs. Many breeds do fine with regularly amounts of human love and attention, but some are a little bit more high-maintenance in this area. #1 – Australian Shepherd … Read more

Breed Overview

The Border Collie, renowned for its intelligence and herding ability, is a versatile and hardworking breed. They are well-regarded for their agility and are often considered the best herding dogs in the world.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height 18-22 inches (males), 18-21 inches (females)
  • Weight 30-45 pounds (males), 27-42 pounds (females)
  • Lifespan 12-15 years
  • Coat Double coat, which can be rough or smooth
  • Color Various colors, commonly black and white, but can include blue merle, red, and brindle
  • Grooming Moderate; requires regular brushing and occasional bathing
  • Temperament Intelligent, energetic, and responsive; known for being highly trainable and focused
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence Extremely high
Health Needs
  • Exercise Requires regular, vigorous exercise and mental stimulation
  • Trainability Highly trainable, excels in obedience and agility
  • Socialization Good with early socialization, can be reserved with strangers
  • Grooming Moderate; requires regular brushing and occasional bathing
  • Health Issues Generally healthy, but can be prone to hip dysplasia, collie eye anomaly, and epilepsy
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Good for active families, but may be too intense for very young children
  • Suitable Living Space Best suited for homes with ample space; thrives with an active lifestyle

About the Breed

Border Collies were developed to herd livestock, mainly sheep, on the hilly border between Scotland and England. They are known for their “eye” – an intense gaze used to control sheep.

History of the Breed

The breed’s history dates back to the Roman Empire’s occupation of Britain, where they were used as herding dogs. The modern Border Collie emerged in the 19th century and symbolized Scottish and English pastoral life.

Fun Facts About the Border Collie

Woman,In,The,Park,Playing,Fetch,With,Her,Border,Collie

Border Collies are often cited as the most intelligent of all domestic dogs.

Dog,Sitting,In,The,Air

They excel in various canine sports, including agility, flyball, and disc competitions.

Shutterstock

The breed has been popularized in film and television, most notably with the character "Babe" in the film of the same name.

    What To Expect When Caring For a Border Collie

    Health

    Generally healthy, but can be prone to hip dysplasia, collie eye anomaly, and epilepsy. Regular health check-ups and genetic testing for known conditions are recommended.

    Grooming

    Their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and to manage shedding. Occasional bathing, nail trimming, and teeth cleaning are also necessary.

    Exercise

    Requires daily exercise, including walks, runs, and playtime. They thrive in activities that challenge them mentally and physically, such as agility or herding trials.

    Training

    Early socialization and obedience training are crucial. They respond well to positive, consistent training methods and are eager to learn.

    Nutrition

    Choose a well-balanced diet that suits their size, age, and activity level. Monitor their food intake to maintain a healthy weight, especially as they are an active breed.

    Caring for a Border Collie requires a commitment to providing sufficient exercise, training, and mental stimulation. They thrive in active environments and form strong bonds with their families. With proper care and attention to health, Border Collies can lead happy, fulfilling lives as beloved members of their families.

    Border Collie Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

    The Border Collie is generally a healthy breed. However, like all dog breeds, Border Collies are predisposed to specific health conditions. Awareness of these conditions and undergoing recommended tests can help maintain their health.

    Description: A genetic condition where the hip joint does not form properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

    Recommended Test: Hip Evaluation: Radiographs or X-rays to screen for hip dysplasia, are especially important if you plan to breed your dog.

    Description: A hereditary eye condition ranging from mild to severe and can affect vision.

    Recommended Test: Ophthalmologist Evaluation: Eye exams by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to screen for Collie Eye Anomaly and other hereditary eye disorders.

    Description: A neurological disorder that can cause seizures.

    Recommended Test: Neurological Exam for Epilepsy: A thorough neurological examination by a veterinarian is recommended if seizures are observed.

    Description: Border Collies with a lot of white on their head, can be prone to congenital deafness.

    Recommended Test: Genetic Testing: For conditions like CEA and deafness, particularly in breeding dogs.

    Hip Dysplasia

    Description: A genetic condition where the hip joint does not form properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

    Recommended Test: Hip Evaluation: Radiographs or X-rays to screen for hip dysplasia, are especially important if you plan to breed your dog.

    Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

    Description: A hereditary eye condition ranging from mild to severe and can affect vision.

    Recommended Test: Ophthalmologist Evaluation: Eye exams by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to screen for Collie Eye Anomaly and other hereditary eye disorders.

    Epilepsy

    Description: A neurological disorder that can cause seizures.

    Recommended Test: Neurological Exam for Epilepsy: A thorough neurological examination by a veterinarian is recommended if seizures are observed.

    Deafness

    Description: Border Collies with a lot of white on their head, can be prone to congenital deafness.

    Recommended Test: Genetic Testing: For conditions like CEA and deafness, particularly in breeding dogs.

    Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any health issues early, and prompt attention to changes in your dog's behavior or appearance is key. With proper care and attention to health, Border Collies can lead happy, healthy lives as beloved family pets.

    Prescription Medication Assistance for Border Collies

    The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

    How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Border Collie?

    Caring for a Border Collie involves various annual expenses, which can vary depending on your location, the individual dog’s needs, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a general breakdown of the annual costs for a Border Collie:

    A purebred Border Collie puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

    Initial Cost

    $500 - 1000

    Potential Additional Costs:

    When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Border Collie enthusiasts.

    Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

    Initial Cost

    $200 - 500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

    High-quality dog food and treats for an active medium-sized breed are recommended for the Border Collie.

    Estimated Cost

    $300 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Learn more about the best quality dog food for Golden Retrievers.

    They have a medium-length coat that requires regular grooming.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

    Border Collies require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

    Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your dog's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

    Your Border Collie will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

    Professional training is extremely important for active breeds like the Border Collie, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

    Estimated Cost

    $300 - 1200

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

    Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

    If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

    A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

    Estimated Cost

    $50 - 100

    Total Estimated Annual Cost:

    $1950 - $5200

    It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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