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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

3 Simple Ways To Keep Your Border Collie’s Teeth Clean

Dental health is an important part of your dog’s overall wellness and should not be overlooked. This is even more so if you own Border Collie, who are more prone to dental problems than some breeds. Keeping your pup’s teeth clean has been emphasized relatively recently and a lot of people are still simply unaware of the risks. However, just like people, there are many oral diseases that dogs can and do get that could lead to even greater problems down … Read more

Dog Dream Job: Pup Employed As Maritime Museum’s “Seagull Security Dog”

If you’ve ever had your car, deck, or beach towel bird-bombed, you know how much of a messy nuisance bird poo can be! Located on the coast, the Australian National Maritime Museum is a natural target for seagull slop. According to 702 ABC Sidney, the museum had tried multiple methods to deter the doo-droppers, including water sprays and fake birds, but to no avail. So after learning that airports often use dogs to keep birds at bay, they decided to hire a pooch. … Read more

Affectionate Dogs Show Us That Sometimes, All We Need Is A Hug

Hugging is a very “human” way of showing affection. Some of us love hugging our dogs, and some dogs love being hugged (but watch out, not all dogs do!). But two dogs hugging each other? Now, that’s something you don’t see every day! A video posted by Adventures of Dewey & Blaze (@dewey.blaze) on Feb 2, 2016 at 11:34am PST Dewey and Blaze are two adorable Border Collies who show their love for each other with hugs! Because Border Collies are some of … Read more

Shy Shelter Dog Comes Out Of Her Shell And Is Now Having Epic Surfing Adventures!

We’ve seen so many videos of shelter dogs who are terrified and shy when they first arrived at the shelter. Some of them would either cower in fear or stare blankly at the wall in their kennel. But with love and care, these scared and shy shelter dogs would transform into sweet, cheerful, and loving pooches! Now this Border Collie mix named Mia was once a stray dog who was brought into the shelter of the RSPCA in Southport, Queensland … Read more

This Dog Is His Musician Dad’s Biggest Fan!

Dogs get excited over a lot of things. They get excited when we come home, they get excited when they see food, and they get excited when they see other animals. There’s one odd thing that excites the dog in the video below. This fella somehow gets EXTREMELY excited and happy when he hears the banjo! He wouldn’t stop jumping because of his excitement! Watch the video below! Wow! It’s like he doesn’t get tired from all that jumping! Do … Read more

Two Dogs Going Through A Tough Ordeal Comfort Each Other

One reason why we love our dogs is because they comfort us when we feel sick or when we are depressed. They somehow know that we feel sad and sick, so they stay by our side and try to comfort us. But it’s not just humans that dogs know how to comfort, dogs also comfort each other in times of need. We’ve proven that time and time again when we see stories of loyal dogs who stay by their injured … Read more

This Dog Keeps Airport Runways Safe & He Has The Coolest Attire Ever!

This dog is so much cooler than you! And, he has an awesome job too! Everyone, meet Piper, an 8-year-old Border Collie who works at the Cherry Capital Airport! Piper’s job is a serious one, he keeps the airport runways safe. He is in charge of clearing out the birds and the ducks, as well as rodents and other small mammals. Piper looks dapper as ever during a snow inspection today. This was our first snow event on duty and … Read more

Yoga Is Good, Yoga With Dogs Is Better!

There have been a lot of videos of cats doing yoga – after all cats are limber, we get it! But, dogs can be just as limber as cats if they just hit the gym once in a while. In fact, many performance dog owners do “canine conditioning” to help their dogs stay fit and avoid injury while doing sports like flyball and agility. FitPAWS, maker of canine fitness equipment, has equipment such as balance discs and peanuts specifically designed for your … Read more

Check Out These Sweet Dogs Who Just Love To Hug Each Other

When a woman named Taylor Duguay posted a video of her dogs on Facebook, she never expected that the video will be viewed over 23 million times. Her dogs, a Border Collie named Lottie, and a German Shepherd named Grizzly, showed their sweetest trick–Lottie hugs Grizzly when mom asks her who her best friend is! It’s one of the cutest tricks we’ve ever seen! Posted by Lottie on Thursday, October 22, 2015 The two dogs are very well-trained too, they know … Read more

This Dog May Be In A Wheelchair, But That Doesn’t Stop Him From Going Skiing!

There are so many fun things to do in the snow. You can build a snowman, have a snowball fight, or you can go skiing! It’s not just humans who love to have fun in the snow, dogs love snow too! And the Border Collie in the video below won’t let his deformity stop him from having fun! Roosevelt the Border Collie has malformed legs. And thanks to his foster family and the New England Border Collie Rescue (NEBCR), along … Read more

Watch These Adorable Dogs Pose Sweetly For The Camera!

Does your dog know how to pose for the camera? Some dogs are just too restless. But a trick that really works is to dangle a treat behind the camera so they’d sit still and focus on the treat–making it look like they’re posing for the camera. But the two dogs in the video below can pose for the camera sweetly and flawlessly! According to their human, these dogs named Envy and Zain are experts when it comes to having … Read more

This Disease Affects 80% of Border Collies. Is Your Pup Silently Suffering?

The thought of our Border Collies silently suffering from a easily preventable disease is absolutely heartbreaking. Yet studies show that as many as 85% of dogs over the age of 3 years old are suffering from a disease that is not only extremely painful, but outright deadly. What condition are we talking about? Periodontal disease. Unfortunately periodontal disease is more than just a cosmetic issue. In addition to causing inflammation, bad breath, tooth loss, and pain for your dog, bacteria that starts in the … Read more

This Awesome Dog Travels Across The North America Performing Amazing Tricks!

We love to travel, even our dogs love to travel with us. And we always make sure that we take excellent photos and videos during our travels. But I gotta say, this dog has the BEST travel video I have ever seen! This Collie named Hero loves to travel with his humans. And in the video, you will see him visiting different places across the North America. But what makes Hero’s video special is that he performs awesome tricks in … Read more

Dogs Playing The Congas–And Some Fun Doggy Dances, Too!

Ever seen a sheltie play the congas? Now you have. And we think it’s pretty amazing. He’s obviously a dog that walks to the beat of his own drum! (Sorry, we couldn’t help it…) How about a dog conga line? THIS you have to see… Talk about a fun party – this is what we want our New Year’s to look like! These pups have mad dancing skills – and they love to pawty! Debbi Decker and her dogs – … Read more

This Dog Can Play Ping Pong Better Than A Human!

I know dogs can be very sports minded and there are even events that highlight different sporting activities that dogs excel in… but ping pong?? Now that’s really amazing! Watch this Border Collie, he’s one smart dog and can play ping pong better than some of us! Plus, it looks like he’s truly enjoying playing the game! He does give a lot of “mouth” though because he “talks” the whole time he is playing, which crack me up big time! … Read more

Stray Dog Appears Out Of Nowhere And Jumps In Front Of Speeding Truck To Save Little Girl

In Oklahoma City, a stray dog became a hero after he put his own life in danger when he jumped in front of a speeding truck to save a little girl. The dog was first seen hanging around the neighborhood three weeks before the incident. He was very friendly and he was fed by the people in the area. On the day of the incident, the kids were playing near the road, there was an oncoming speeding truck when a … Read more

21 Dog Smiles Guaranteed To Make Your Day

Dogs are awesome. We love them, we love their pure happiness and excitement about life and we seriously love their smiles. All it takes is one friendly grin from a pooch and you’ve got us completely sold. How can you possibly have a bad day with a joyful canine companion around? If these don’t make you warm and fuzzy inside, you’ve probably got no soul. #1 I’m on a nice walk with mum 😆 Happy Tuesday everybody!! 👅😙 A photo … Read more

At The Lake They Couldn’t Find Their Dog But Then They Caught Him Doing This

A lot of dogs seem to be enjoying their summer! And we’ve seen plenty of videos of how dogs have fun during the hot days. And we’re seeing quite a number of videos of them swimming, having fun in the water, and sliding down the water slide! Dogs seem to be experts at having fun! But the dog in the video below is not just having fun, he seems to be quite the daredevil too! He dared to climb up … Read more

Watch This Talented Dog Do A Handstand With His Owner

Remember that video of a dog who was catching balls with a bucket? That was pretty cute, wasn’t it? They are the same dogs who perform an unbelievable balancing trick where one dog climbs on top of their owner’s torso and the other dog climbs on top of their owner’s raised feet! It was a jaw-dropping performance! Now Ace and Holly are back with a new video! This time Ace does a yoga pose with his human. And it’s not … Read more

Nikon Develops A Camera That Your Dog Can Operate

Nikon just created one of the coolest camera ever! They developed a camera gadget that our dogs can operate! And it takes photos from the heart! In the video below, you will see a dog named Grizzler. Just like most dogs Grizzler loves to go on walks and check out his surroundings. And now with Nikon’s new camera, he can take photos of things that excite him! The device reads Grizzler’s heartbeat. The device is placed on a camera holder … Read more

Dog Blows Bystanders Away By Busting Out This Trick

Dogs have amazing balancing skills. We’ve seen a lot of them perform during dog shows and even in talent contests on TV! Just recently, we featured two Border Collies named Ace and Holly, who performed an amazing balancing trick with their human. What the dog in the video below does is just jaw-droppingly amazing! Ozzy the Welsh Border Collie is an acrobatic dog who can walk on a tightrope! But that’s not all! Not only can he balance on the … Read more

22 Super-Duper Border Collies We’re Excited To Share

Big Thanks to the I Love My Border Collie Community on FB for sending us their pics. ▬▬►You can signup for the Border Collie newsletter here FREE: http://iheartdogs.com/the-ultimate-border-collie-lover-email/ #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #10 #11 #12 #13 #14 #15 #16 #17 #18 #19 #20 #21 #22 Want us to cover your breed and include a pic of your dog? Email us here: woof@iheartdogs.com  

This Talented Dog Probably Has Better Balance Than You Do…Prepare To Be Impressed!

Anyone who’s ever tried yoga or any other workout routine for which balance and coordination are requirements, you’ll definitely find the video, and the dog, below very impressive. As someone who can barely even maintain a handstand in a pool, the footage below is particularly mind-blowing. Youtuber Dai Aoki trains dogs to do various yoga poses and balancing positions. In this video, Aoki works with his spunky, talented Border Collie named Hollie, who has clearly undergone lots of training. By … Read more

This Dog Can Totally Catch Balls…With A Bucket…Yes A Bucket

Dogs doing tricks never fail to entertain me. We dog lovers just love watching dogs doing adorable and outrageous tricks! It makes us love them even more. Just recently, we featured a pack of dogs doing the conga during their performance at America’s Got Talent! That was one cute and fun performance that we will never forget! Now here we have another entertaining act for you! These very skilled dogs and their amazing trainer/owner are playing catch at home. But … Read more

This Border Collie May Be Smarter Than People You Know

[IHD_Mobile_Banner]  How smart is your dog? We all know that dogs are intelligent creatures. They can be trained to do tricks, and do a lot of useful things that can help us. Especially those dogs who help the blind and people with disability. This 10-year-old Border Collie named Chaser is one intelligent dog. Other dogs can learn and remember commands, but how Chaser learn these words is what is revolutionary. His owner and trainer is 86-year-old Dr. John Pilley, a … Read more

Dogs Perform An Unbelievable Balancing Trick

Border Collies are considered to be the most intelligent dog breed. Animal Planet and VetStreet have ranked the Border Collie as number 1 in their list of the smartest dog breeds. And it’s no surprise, because Border Collies are super smart and very easy to train. Border Collies are hardworking and energetic, and they are very good at herding sheep. Not only that, Border Collies are very focused, and they have amazing balancing skills too! The two beautiful Border Collies … Read more

These Dogs Don’t Wear The Pants When Cats Are Around – HILARIOUS

It’s no secret that the natural order in the animal kingdom is dogs chasing cats away, but this hilarious video shows us just how powerful cats can be! They’ve always been more of the thinkers when it comes to cats vs. dogs and these cats have managed to take full control over their dogs’ minds. These poor pups need a little extra support and coaxing from their owners to get them just to walk past the cats they live with. … Read more

Lamb Who Was Raised by Dogs Is Having An Identity Crisis! She Thinks She’s A Dog!

We’ve seen plenty of animals who think they’re dogs; well they act like dogs, and do things that dogs do. We’ve seen a cat acting like a dog. We even saw a horse who thinks he’s a dog, and he plays with a dog too! Now this time, we’re gonna see a lamb with the same identity crisis! Everyone, meet Pet, the lamb who thinks she’s a dog! Pet lost her mother when she was very young. And since then, … Read more

Friendly Australian Postman Greets EVERY Dog On His Mail Route!

In the dog world, mailmen get a pretty bad reputation. But, not because they’re doing anything wrong! If you haven’t noticed, dogs typically enjoy barking like crazy animals when the mailman arrives. Some of the most well behaved dogs even lose their cool! While I’ll never fully understand why this is, the postman in this next video has figures out a way to prevent this from happening on his route!Almost all of the dogs he comes in contact with seem … Read more

So Here’s What Happens When 2 Dogs Help Out With a Tennis Game. Adorable!!!

Not everyone is a Tennis fan. But if you’re a dog lover, you’re gonna love watching this special Tennis match! But instead of keeping an eye on the tennis players, you’re gonna gush over the cute ball boys! In the video, two of the world’s best tennis players, Venus Williams and Svetlana Kuznetsova, went to to Auckland, New Zealand for a tennis game. What they didn’t expect is that this game is gonna be a special one because the ball … 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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