Extremely Intelligent and Trainable

Border Collies are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, making them highly trainable and capable of learning complex tasks. 

Great for Active Families

With their boundless energy, Border Collies are perfect for families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities such as running, hiking, or playing frisbee. 

Versatile Working Dogs

They excel in a variety of roles, including herding, agility, obedience, and even search-and-rescue work. 

Loyal and Protective

Border Collies are deeply loyal to their families and can be protective, forming strong bonds with their owners. 

High Exercise Needs

Border Collies require significant amounts of physical and mental stimulation, making them unsuitable for sedentary lifestyles or small living spaces without access to regular outdoor activity. 

Can Be Overly Focused

Their strong work ethic and intelligence can sometimes lead to obsessive behaviours, particularly in environments where they don’t have enough tasks or stimulation. 

Not Ideal for Inexperienced Owners

Border Collies are best suited for experienced dog owners who understand how to manage their high energy and train them effectively. 

Can Be Sensitive

Border Collies are emotionally sensitive and respond best to positive reinforcement. They can become anxious or stressed with harsh training methods or inconsistent leadership. 

Exercise Needs

Border Collies have extremely high exercise needs and require daily physical activity, mental stimulation, and training. They excel in activities such as running, hiking, agility, and obedience training. Without adequate exercise, they may become bored and destructive. 

Walks

A minimum of two long walks or runs per day, along with playtime and mental challenges, is necessary to meet their energy levels. 

Training

Border Collies are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training. They enjoy learning new commands, tricks, and tasks, and they thrive in environments where they can be mentally stimulated. Early and consistent training is crucial to manage their energy and focus. 

Purchase Price

$2,000 - $4,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage. 

Initial Setup

Around $400 - $700 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $800 - $1,200 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs and size. 

Grooming

Grooming costs range from $300 - $500 AUD per year, as they require regular brushing to manage shedding. Professional grooming may be needed for rough-coated Border Collies. 

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups, preventive care, and potential treatment for genetic conditions could cost $400 - $600 AUD per year. 

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 12-15 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $25,000 - $40,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors. 

Size and Weight

Border Collies typically stand 46-56 cm (18-22 inches) tall and weigh between 14-20 kg (30-45 lbs), with males generally being larger than females. 

Coat

Border Collies have two main coat types: rough and smooth. The rough coat is medium-length and can be dense and wavy, while the smooth coat is shorter and coarser. Both types shed year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. 

Colour Options

Border Collies come in a variety of colours, including black and white, red and white, blue merle, tricolour, and more. 

Temperament

Border Collies are intelligent, energetic, and eager to please. They thrive on having a job to do and are happiest when given tasks that challenge both their body and mind. They are known for their loyalty and strong work ethic. 

Good with Children

Border Collies can be good with children, especially if raised with them, but their herding instincts may cause them to nip or “herd” small children. Supervision is recommended, especially with younger kids. 

Socialisation

Early socialisation is important to ensure Border Collies are comfortable around different people, animals, and environments. They can be wary of strangers if not properly socialised. 

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Border Collies prefer homes where they have regular access to outdoor space due to their high energy levels. They are best suited for homes with large yards or rural environments, but they can adapt to indoor living as long as they receive sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation. 

Apartment Living

Border Collies are not ideal for apartment living unless the owner is highly committed to meeting their exercise needs with regular outdoor activities and mental challenges. 

Time Alone

Border Collies do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are social and intelligent dogs that require companionship and mental engagement. They may develop anxiety or destructive behaviours if isolated for too long. 

Common Health Issues

Border Collies are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), epilepsy, and Collie eye anomaly (CEA). Regular vet check-ups, health screenings, and a balanced diet are important for maintaining their health. 

Guarding Ability

While Border Collies are not natural guard dogs, they may bark to alert their owners of strangers or unusual activity. They are more protective of their families than territorial. 

Affectionate Nature

Border Collies are affectionate with their families and enjoy being involved in family activities. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners. 

Suitability for Dog Parks

Border Collies are generally social with other dogs but may show strong herding instincts or be overly focused on specific tasks. Supervision is recommended during play to ensure positive interactions with other dogs. 

Climate Adaptability

Border Collies can adapt to various climates but may struggle in extreme heat due to their thick coat. It’s important to provide plenty of water and shade during hot weather and to avoid excessive physical activity during the hottest parts of the day. 

Ethical Breeding Considerations

It’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings for genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and PRA. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure well-adjusted puppies.