Border Collie
Breed Summary
The Border Collie is a well-balanced, medium-sized athletic dog. They have a hard, muscular body that conveys the impression of their effortless movement and endless endurance. They are intelligent, keen, give an alert expression which is a very important characteristic of this breed. Their eyes are moderate, oval, and set well apart, and they have medium-sized ears, and the skull is flat and moderate in width.
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 35 of 196
AKC Classification: Herding Group
UKC Classification: Herding Dog
Exercise Requirements: >40 minutes/day
Height: Male: 22 inches; Female: 20 inches
Weight: Male: 30–45 lbs. Female: 30–42 lbs.
Physical traits: Well-balanced, Medium-sized, Athletic
Coat: Length: Medium
Characteristics: Double coat, straight
Colors: Black with or without white, red and white, solid color, bi-color, tri-color, merle, sable
Overall Grooming Needs: Moderate
Personality traits/Temperament: Affectionate, Smart, Energetic
Energy Level: Very Energetic
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: High
Tendency to Dig: Low
Social/Attention Needs: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health
The Border Collie is a very hardy and healthy breed. There life expectancy is 12 to 15 years. Early tooth loss or complications from gum infection is a common condition in Border Collie if dental care and regular tooth brushing are not properly given. To avoid ear infections, regular ear cleaning is recommended. Some dogs can develop itchy skin conditions where baths with a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner is recommended. Flea control is also essential. An excellent breeder will examine their breeding stock for several health conditions like hip dysplasia, progressive renal atrophy, deafness, epilepsy, collie eye anomaly, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, and trapped neutrophil syndrome.
Nutrition
The Border Collie dog depends on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared. Add a high-quality dog multivitamin to complete the nutritional circle. Provide a diet according to the different stages of a dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so monitor your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Don’t give human foods that are not safe for them. Consult with your veterinarian for further advice.
Training
Border Collie requires early socialization training because positive exposure to a wide variety of people and situations from early puppyhood through about seven months will make them a well-mannered dog. During their early age, obedience training needs to start and continues throughout the Collie’s life that will keep him happy and provide mental stimulation. They are highly intelligent and highly trainable and are superstars at canine activities such as herding, obedience, and agility.
Exercise
Border Collie is a high-drive and very much energetic breed that requires regular exercise beyond just a walk around the block or a quick romp in the yard. A Border Collie must be provided with vigorous exercise every day who doesn’t work. Use paw balm daily to protect their feet. This breed is for an active owner, and not for someone who prefers to stay indoors or who travels away from home frequently. They often take part in many herding events, not to mention obedience, agility, and tracking competitions, and sports such as flying disc and flyball.
Fun Fact
Queen Victoria was a true dog lover who took a liking to many breeds, but in the early 1860s she became an active Border Collie enthusiast.
References
1. American Kennel Club. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.akc.org/
2. Dog Breeds | Hill’s Pet. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/breeds
3. List of Dog Breeds | Petfinder. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/
4. All Dog Breeds - Complete List of Dog Profiles. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/profiles
5. Dog Breeds | Types of Dogs | Purina. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds
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