The Border Collie is a medium sized dog – size ranging from 19-21 inches for males and 18-20 inches for females. More common is the long coated variety although a smooth coat is permissible. Colours include black and white, blue and white, red and white, tri colour ( black, white and tan ), chocolate and white, blue merle, red merle, in fact any colour is permissible so long as the main coat is predominate over white.

Intelligent dog, eager to work with a loyal, trustworthy and devoted temperament. The Border Collie is a great companion of extreme alert nature and attentive at al times. Obedient in any situation and read to take command. Unhappy if not given challenging work and a job to do.

The Border Collie is an ancient breed which comes from the sheep country on the border of England and Scotland. The Border collie is well known for its ability to control livestock and where there are sheep you will find border collies. Fast and agile, intelligent and biddable, combined with incredible stamina and strong natural instincts, they have long been recognised as one of the finest sheep herding dogs in the world.

Border Collies are wonderful companions and very owner-bonded. Good with children and babies as long as he has had proper socialisation. A great watchdog with low dominance relative to family members and other dogs. Border Collies are unquestionably highly intelligent and active dogs. While the level intensity varies, those unaccustomed to the breed may consider them too energetic for their lifestyle.

Adaptable to rural property or city. You must let him run free in the grounds of your house and walk him once or twice a day. If you lock him up in a pen all day he will jump up and down, yap and dig holes for something to do. But if you bear in mind that he is a get up and go dog and train him properly, he will live in town quite happily without longing for the bush.

Average sized meals although working dogs survive on surprisingly little food. A more active dog may require a little more nourishing food.

10-15 minutes once a week. A little more if shedding which is only occasionally.

The breed’s love to work and easy trainability have made the border collie well known as one of the most intelligent of all breeds. Because of this, the border collie is a strong competitor in obedience, agility and flyball. A bright and energetic dog, the border collie needs to work his mind and body in order to be happy. The border collie is very willing to please his owner as his whole instinct is to work with and for man.

The border collie’s love for the outdoor life make him a great family dog. Whether swimming, walking, hiking, bush walking or playing catch with a ball or frisbee, the border collie will enjoy leisure pursuits.

Average lifespan would be 13 years.

Border Collie’s are not immune to genetic problems that plague all dogs. Canine hip dysphasia and genetic eye diseases are not common, but something to be aware of. Most reputable breeders will have their puppy’s checked for CEA ( Collie Eye Anomaly ) prior to going to their new homes. Breeding stock should be hip-scored and eye tested before being breed.

$400 - $500 for a pet puppy from a reputable breeder who does all health checks as mentioned in the health problems section.