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Border Collie

Border Collie is a medium herding breed from Scotland also known as Scottish Sheepdog.

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Border Collie

Breed overview

Border Collie is a medium herding breed from Scotland also known as Scottish Sheepdog.

Widely considered the most intelligent dog breed, originally developed along the Anglo-Scottish border for herding sheep.

People looking into Border Collie usually prepare for Very High exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 30–55 lbs • 18–22 in.

Scottish Sheepdog

History and origin

Border Collie is tied to originating from Scotland, specifically Scottish Borders, with sources often placing its development around 1700 CE.

Border Collie is described here as placed in the Herding group and marked as an established breed.

Widely considered the most intelligent dog breed, originally developed along the Anglo-Scottish border for herding sheep.

Browse dog breeds from Scotland Browse more Herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Herding
Size
Medium
Origin country
Scotland
Region
Scottish Borders
Origin year
1700 CE
Weight
30–55 lbs
Height
18–22 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
5 / 5
Trainability
5 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Very High exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 5/5

Coat and classification

Border Collie is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleMediumWeather Resistant

Border Collie is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Athletic, medium-sized herding dog
  • Moderate-length double coat, often black and white
  • Intense, focused gaze ('the eye')
  • Low-set tail with slight upward curve

What this breed is known for

  • Widely considered the most intelligent dog breed, originally developed along the Anglo-Scottish border for herding sheep.
  • They have intense herding instincts and a characteristic "eye" (stare) used to control livestock.
  • Border Collies are extremely energetic and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation, excelling in dog sports like agility and obedience.

Health and care notes

Border Collie is noted here for Very High exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Collie Eye Anomaly
  • Multidrug Sensitivity

Coat details: Double, Medium, Weather Resistant

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Border Collie come from?

Border Collie is closely associated with Scotland, especially Scottish Borders in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Border Collie get?

Typical size details for Border Collie on this page are 30–55 lbs, 18–22 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Border Collie known for?

Widely considered the most intelligent dog breed, originally developed along the Anglo-Scottish border for herding sheep.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Border Collie reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.