Medium breed
Border Collie Puppies
Smart, energetic companions for adventurous families
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- Adult weight 30–45 lbs
- Height 18–22 in
- Lifespan 12–15 years
- Exercise 120 min a day
About the Border Collie
If you’re looking for a canine companion that is intelligent, energetic, and incredibly affectionate, the Border Collie may be the perfect addition to your family. Originating from the border region of England and Scotland, this breed was historically bred for herding sheep and has developed into a highly trainable and eager-to-please companion over the years. Their natural instinct to work and strong desire for social interaction make them an excellent choice for active families.
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Border Collies thrive in environments where they have the opportunity to engage in physical and mental activities. With a good amount of energy to spare, they require regular exercise, which can include walks, runs, or interactive play sessions in the yard. While they do well with young kids, their high level of enthusiasm might take a little adjustment for those with very young or timid children. They also tend to enjoy the company of other dogs, but may not be as compatible with cats.
Grooming your Border Collie will involve weekly brushing to keep their coat healthy and to manage shedding, which can be moderate. You’ll find that their trainability and intelligence are standout traits, allowing them to learn commands quickly and excel in obedience training. While they can be vocal, their affectionate nature typically makes them excellent companions when you establish a routine that includes training and plenty of attention. So, if you’re in search of a bright and loving companion in Petland Hoffman Estates, IL, consider welcoming a Border Collie into your life.
Border Collie breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Cautious
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive High
Family & other pets
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Young children Excellent
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Older children Excellent
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Needs care
Energy & exercise
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Energy Very high
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Mental stimulation Needs a job to do
Training
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Trainability Eager to please
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Intelligence Exceptional
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Heavy
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Drooling None to speak of
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Prefers a house
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Comfortable
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Warm weather Average
A good match for
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First-time owners Some experience helps
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Senior owners Suitable
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Running partner Excellent
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Hiking Excellent
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Low
Living with a Border Collie
Temperament & Family Fit
Border Collies are renowned for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them a fantastic addition to any family. They tend to be particularly good with young kids, thriving on the companionship and playfulness that children provide. With their social disposition, these dogs also enjoy the company of other dogs, though they might not be as trusting around cats.
Energy & Exercise
As one of the most energetic breeds out there, Border Collies require significant exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Daily activities such as running, agility training, and interactive playtime are essential to channel their boundless energy. They are not particularly apartment-friendly, so a home with ample space for play would be ideal for this active breed.
Care & Grooming
Border Collies exhibit a moderate level of shedding, so they benefit from weekly grooming sessions to keep their coat in tip-top shape. Regular brushing helps manage loose hair and minimizes the mess around your home. With their moderate affection level, these pups appreciate a good cuddle after a grooming session but are also comfortable spending time on their own.
Training Notes
Border Collies rank high on the trainability scale, making them an absolute delight to teach. Their intelligence and eagerness to please mean that they quickly pick up new commands and tricks, but they also thrive on mental stimulation. Consistent, positive reinforcement training methods work wonders, and early socialization will help ensure that they grow into well-behaved companions.
Caring for a Border Collie
- Grooming
- Weekly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the energy level of a Border Collie?
Border Collies are known for their high energy levels, ranking a solid 5 out of 5. They love to run and play, making them ideal for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. Daily exercise and mental stimulation are essential to keep this breed happy and healthy.
Are Border Collies good with children?
Absolutely! Border Collies are incredibly friendly and gentle with young kids, earning a 5 out of 5 in this category. They are playful and enjoy being around children, often forming strong bonds with them. Supervision during playtime is always a good idea, as their enthusiastic nature can sometimes lead to boisterous fun.
How trainable are Border Collies?
Border Collies are one of the most trainable dog breeds out there, rated a perfect 5 for trainability. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes training a rewarding experience. With the right techniques and consistency, you can expect your Border Collie to learn commands and tricks quickly.
Do Border Collies shed a lot?
Border Collies have a moderate shedding level, scoring a 3 out of 5. Regular grooming, typically once a week, helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy. With proper care, you can enjoy your furry friend without too much fuss about fur around the house.
Can Border Collies live in apartments?
While it's not the ideal living situation for them, Border Collies can adapt to apartment life, scoring a 2 for apartment-friendliness. However, they will need plenty of outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Regular trips to the park or engaging activities will help ensure they remain happy and well-adjusted.
