Border Collie

Character and behavior of a Border Collie

Border Collies are extremely alert, intelligent, and eager to work. Their temperament is characterized by energy, alertness, and a strong need for activity. They are often very affectionate and loyal to their owners, yet can also display a certain degree of independence.

Training and education of a Border Collie

Due to their high intelligence and ability to learn, Border Collies are easy to train and love challenges. They respond well to positive reinforcement and learn new commands quickly. However, simple commands are often not enough for them – Border Collies need challenging tasks, such as agility, herding, or tricks, to be happy.

Is the Border Collie a family dog?

Yes, Border Collies can be wonderful family dogs, especially for active families. Their gentle nature and patience make them good companions for children. However, their high level of exercise and activity make them a better fit for families who have the time and desire for intense activities and shared experiences.

Do Border Collies get along with other dogs?

Border Collies are generally friendly and get along well with other dogs. However, their socialization should begin early to ensure they maintain their calm and balanced behavior toward other dogs. Border Collies are rarely aggressive and appreciate companionship, especially if they are introduced to it from a young age.

‍

How big and heavy does a Border Collie get?

Border Collies are medium-sized dogs with an athletic, slender build:

• Shoulder height: 46–56 cm
• Weight: 12–20 kg

Their slim build and musculature make them particularly fast and agile, which is also reflected in their behavior.

‍

Affection for people

Border Collies are very people-oriented and show a lot of affection. They love being close to their owners and enjoy human company. Due to their loyal and friendly nature, they are particularly affectionate and enjoy any kind of interaction and shared activity.

Grooming and hygiene of a Border Collie

Border Collies have a medium-length, dense coat that protects them from a variety of weather conditions. Their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and keep shedding under control. Brushing is more frequent during the shedding season in spring and fall. Occasional baths and regular dental care also contribute to good health and hygiene.

What is the life expectancy of a Border Collie?

The average life expectancy of a Border Collie is about 12 to 15 years. With proper care, species-appropriate exercise, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise, Border Collies can live long, healthy lives.

Frequent health problems

‍
Some of the most common health problems affecting Border Collies include:

• Osteochondrosis (OCD) – Border Collies are prone to osteochondrosis, a cartilage malformation that affects the joints. Symptoms include limping and stiffness, often becoming apparent during growth before the dog reaches one year of age. The condition can be alleviated by reducing exercise, weight control, and pain medication. In severe cases, surgery may be helpful. After surgery, dogs are usually free of pain and lameness, although symptoms may occur after exercise.

• Epilepsy – Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures, and Border Collies are prone to it. The disease has no cure, but symptoms can be controlled with treatment.

• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) – Collie Eye Anomaly is a hereditary condition that often occurs in Border Collie puppies around 6–8 weeks of age, when their eyes are developing. Although vision impairment is usually mild in this breed, severe cases can lead to blindness. There is no cure for the condition, but vision loss is rare and usually does not progress to the point of causing blindness. Surgery can help minimize the effects.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – PRA is an eye disease that can lead to blindness. Although this condition is not very common, Border Collies tend to be inherited. The first sign is reduced night vision, which eventually spreads to daytime vision. There is currently no cure, but with adjustments to everyday life, dogs can continue to live happy and comfortable lives.
  ‍

Regular veterinary visits and genetic testing of puppies can help minimize these risks

Price of a Border Collie

The purchase price for a Border Collie in Switzerland can vary depending on the breeding line and breeder and is usually between CHF 1,000 and CHF 2,000.
In addition to the purchase price, you should also consider ongoing costs such as food, insurance, veterinary costs, accessories, and the costs of keeping a Border Collie in a species-appropriate manner.

Dog insurance for Border Collies

Border Collie dog insurance can be useful to cover unexpected veterinary costs and protect yourself against breed-specific health problems. The average cost of Border Collie dog insurance with Calingo is approximately CHF 700 per year.

You can take out Border Collie dog insurance here.

‍

‍

‍