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Border Collies are part of the herding group of dogs. They usually live to be between 12 and 15 years old and weigh between 30 and 55 pounds.1 These dogs were originally bred over 300 years ago in Scotland to work on farms and handle sheep and other animals between the border of Scotland and England.2&3
These dogs are incredibly intelligent and can work all day, every day. They have an amazing amount of energy that they need to expend and they thrive off of having a daily “job” that they need to do – whether that’s herding sheep on a farm or training in dog sports like agility.3&4 When herding, they’re known for their intense stare that keeps the animals in line.4
Without a job, these dogs can easily become bored, which leads to excessive barking and destructive behavior.4 They don’t mind settling down and cuddling, but only after they’ve completed their job for the day. Owners for these dogs need to be able to keep them occupied more than other dogs – so if you’re thinking of getting one, make sure you have both time and energy to make sure they have physical and mental stimulation.1
If you have a Border Collie, don’t be surprised if they end up outsmarting you. They’re very observant and keep you on your toes. Socialization for these dogs is key to make sure they can handle situations where there are dogs and people present that they don’t know.4
Want to know more about the herding group? Check out our blog post here! Or if you’re already prepping to add a Border Collie or other dog to your family, check out our puppy preparation tips here.
All the best,
Chris & the WERC Team
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