Border Collie

The Border Collie is a breed of dog that originated along the English-Scottish border. People have used border collies to herd livestock for over 300 years. They are one of the most intelligent dog breeds.

Border collies are also well known as pets and show dogs. The breed is a member of the collie dog breed group.

Size

The border collie is about 20 inches (51 cm) in height and weighs 31 to 50 pounds (14 to 23 kg). It is usually a long-haired dog. Its coat is often black and white.^[1]

Temperament

Like other herding and sheepdogs, border collies can be fiercely protective of their territory and their owners. This instinct to protect their family makes them ideal guard dogs. If a border collie notices anything new, they alert the family by barking loudly. ^[2]

Exercise

Exercise is one of the most important parts of caring for a border collie. Over a hundred years, people have bred herding dogs to provide them with intelligence, agility, and a high energy level to perform a job (wrangling sheep).

Now, most border collies don't have to do this job. This leaves them with high amounts of energy. They are not recommended for pet owners, who may be unable to provide their dogs with high enough amounts of exercise.^[3]