Border Collies were developed in the border areas between England and Scotland where they were used as herding dogs. Males stand 19 to 22 inches at the shoulder, and females stand 18 to 21 inches at the shoulder. Border Collies may be either rough-coated and smooth-coated. Both coat types come in varieties of colors and color combinations. Border Collies are one of the most intelligent and intense breeds. They are generally loyal and affectionate with loved ones, but can be aloof with strangers and somewhat territorial. As a dog with strong herding instincts, border collies will often forcibly try to round up other household pets and family members especially small children. These dogs need a large amount of mental and physical exercise each day to satisfy their minds and bodies. They are not well suited to apartment life.

To learn how to rescue a Border Collie in need of a home or for breeder referrals from the Border Collie Society of America click here.

Potential Health Problems*

• Cataracts
• Cerebellar Degeneration
• Ciliary Dyskinesia
• Colobma
• Congenital Deafness
• Cryptorchidism
• Hip Dysplasia
• Lens Luxation
• Lysosomal Storage Disease
• Medication Sensitivity (Ivermectin)
• Neutropenia
• Pannus
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Selective Cobalamin Malabsorption (Vitamin B12 Malabsorption)
  
• Shoulder Osteochondrosis

*Just because a condition is associated with a specific breed does not mean that all dogs of this breed will be affected. Likewise, a dog may be impacted by diseases and conditions not listed under his or her breed.