Border Collie
The Border Collie is consistently ranked as the world's most intelligent dog. Bred to herd sheep with the famous "herding eye", their intensity, athleticism and drive are unmatched. Highly rewarding for experienced owners who can channel their energy — but a terrible choice for low-activity households.
About
The Border Collie is consistently ranked as the world's most intelligent dog. Bred to herd sheep with the famous "herding eye", their intensity, athleticism and drive are unmatched. Highly rewarding for experienced owners who can channel their energy — but a terrible choice for low-activity households.
History
The Border Collie was developed on the Anglo-Scottish border for herding sheep. Old Hemp, a tricolour dog born in 1893, is considered the progenitor of the modern Border Collie. They get their name from the borderlands of Scotland and England.
Care & Health
CEA and hip screening are essential. Border Collies that don't get sufficient mental and physical stimulation will develop anxiety, compulsive behaviours and destructiveness. They are not apartment dogs. Check for MDR1 drug sensitivity before any medication.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Scotland / England border
- Life Span
- 12–15 years
- Size
- medium
- Hair Shed
- moderate
- Grooming
- Three times a week
- Good with Kids
- medium
- Exercise Needs
- high
- Feeding Cost
- $15–$20 p/w
- Colours
- Black and white most common. Also red and white, tricolour, merle, sable and solid colours.
Exercise
Exercise needs: high
Minimum 2 hours of vigorous exercise plus mental stimulation daily. Dog sport (agility, flyball, disc) is ideal.
Health Considerations
Recommended Insurance for Border Collie
While Border Collies are beloved companions, they do carry a genetic predisposition to certain conditions.
- ■Hip Dysplasia — typical treatment cost: $3,000–$8,000
- ■Epilepsy — typical treatment cost: $500–$3,000/year ongoing
- ■Collie Eye Anomaly — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$5,000+
- ■Progressive Retinal Atrophy — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$3,000
A comprehensive pet insurance policy can help cover the cost of diagnostics, surgery and ongoing treatment for these conditions. Many Australian providers offer plans starting from around $30–$60 per month for medium-sized breeds, with annual benefit limits of $10,000–$25,000.
🛡️ Don’t wait until it’s too late
Pre-existing conditions are never covered. Insuring your Border Collie while they’re young and healthy gives you the broadest coverage at the lowest premium.
Get a quote — cover your Border Collie from day one →Grooming
Rough or smooth coat. Brush rough-coated Border Collies 2–3 times per week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Border Collie cost in Australia?
Is the Border Collie good with children?
How much exercise does a Border Collie need?
What health problems are common in Border Collies?
Does the Border Collie shed a lot?
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Australian Shepherd
Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd was developed in the western United States and is one of the most beloved working dogs in the world. An athletic, highly intelligent herding breed, the Aussie excels at almost every dog sport. They are loyal, energetic and thrive when given a job to do.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog looks like a miniature Rough Collie. Bred to herd sheep on the Shetland Islands. Alert, active and responsive. Excellent family dogs who are devoted and gentle with children.