Border Collie Puppies

The Border Collie has a reputation for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds. Couple that with tireless energy and remarkable agility, and you have a legendary herding dog, spectacular competitor, or simply a faithful and fun-loving companion for the outdoors. Without proper training, however, the Border Collie has a tendency to become destructive or mischievous, especially when not given enough exercise. Border Collies love to work and stay busy, meaning they're not the type of dog who will lie quietly on the floor and relax while you're watching TV or lounging. So, it's important that you keep a Border Collie on its toes with a "job" to do.

Border Collies tend to be healthy dogs, but there are some conditions they can be prone to developing. These conditions include epilepsy, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, deafness, collie eye anomaly, trapped neutrophil syndrome, and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis.

Most breeders recommend an average of 14 miles per week for a breed such as the Border Collie! This translates to roughly 90 minutes of brisk walking or rough playing per day.

Border Collies should be brushed at least 1 to 2 times a week to keep its coat healthy and free of matting. However, when its the time of year where shedding gets heavier, this breed will need to be brushed daily. Border Collies shouldn't be bathed frequently as it can dry out their skin. Bathing this breed once every 3 to 4 months is enough.

Border Collies shed a moderate amount throughout the year so they are not a good fit for allergy sufferers. Additionally, this breed's double coat sheds heavily during seasonal changes.

Two coat types are available for this breed, with rough or smooth options recognized. This muscular dog has a long tail, and keen alert expression. Although black and white is the most common color combination, they can be solid, bicolor or merle.

The Border Collie originated in the United Kingdom in the 1800s for use as a herding dog and guard dog, along with a variety of other sheep herding dogs. Over time, certain kinds of these sheepdogs became preferable over others. In 1873, a trial was held to determine the superior sheepdogs, which indirectly led to the development of the Border Collie, after the standout breeds from the trial were bred for their exceptional working abilities. The Border Collie came to the United States in the early 1900s and was instantly a hit, especially among shepherds and farmers. Eventually, despite some pushback from Border Collie fans, the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1995.