Stealthy, super smart and always up for game, Border Collies love learning new stuff, being part of every activity, and need to feel they’re the centre of their human’s world. Do you have what it takes to share your life with the world’s most intelligent breed of dog?
3rd July 2025
“Keen, alert, responsive and intelligent,” is how The Kennel Club depicts the Border Collie – and nothing slips past this watchful, clever dog who will steadfastly stick by your side, poised and ready for action.
The name ‘Border Collie’ derives from the border regions of England, Scotland and Wales where this brainy breed was developed to herd sheep in the hills and mountains. First recognised as a pedigree breed by The Kennel Club in 1976, the organisation observes that: “The natural activity and intelligence of the Border Collie means that he or she needs to be engaged to lead a fulfilled life.”
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“Border Collies are still used as working dogs on farms today but have also become much loved family pets,” says veterinary charity PDSA. “They make the ideal dog for active owners who will take them out on plenty of adventures and make sure they have plenty to do all the time.”
“Border Collies make loyal, faithful pets that thrive on company and stimulation,” notes insurer Petplan. And while this is true of pretty much all breeds, when it comes to Border Collies, you need to dial the breed requirements up to 11.
A constant canine companion
“If you’re not a spontaneous or outdoorsy person who wants a constant canine companion by your side, a Border Collie might not be for you,” is the sage advice from Sue Ketland,Dog Behaviour and Training Specialist at animal rehoming charity Woodgreen. “Border Collies love to play games that involve chasing toys. Do not be surprised if you doze off on the sofa and wake up with all their toys on your lap and someone looking at you, waiting patiently for you to throw them!”
Experts agree that Border Collies are a breed that will keep you on your toes and may not be the best choice for first-time dog parents. “The Border Collie isn't for the novice dog owner – he needs time and dedication if he is to be a happy, well-balanced pet,” advises Your Dog.
“Before deciding on having a Border Collie, you need to ask one question, ‘How much of myself am I prepared to give?’,” adds rescue charity Freedom of Spirit Trust for Border Collies. “Providing time for a game with a ball, a half hour walk, or a weekly training session is not enough, they need to be part of your life.”
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Border Collies are very different from other breeds of dog
Border Collie expert and certified trainer Rachel Rodgers says: “Border Collies, because of how they have been bred for so many generations, are very different from other breeds of dog.”
She explains that because Border Collies were originally bred to work outdoors, usually with one person, in the peace and quiet of the countryside, only meeting a handful of people, life in a domestic setting doesn’t always come naturally to them.
What’s more, their movement-sensitive sight (to see moving sheep in the distance), sensitive hearing (to hear a shepherd’s whistles clearly), can make the sights, sounds and demands of everyday life rather challenging, which can lead to behavioural issues that are tricky for inexperienced dog owners to manage.
“Border Collies are one of our most intelligent breeds. They need a job to do, or they will go self-employed! They like to lead a busy and interactive lifestyle. They must be provided with an outlet for their desire to chase to prevent behavioural issues,” advises Woodgreen’s Sue Ketland.
Border Collie health
While generally a healthy breed, there are some health concerns to consider. Petplan notes that Border Collies can be more susceptible than other breeds to epilepsy, vestibular syndrome – a disease that affects part of the nervous system responsible for helping balance and keeping objects in focus – urinary incontinence, hip dysplasia and arthritis.
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Dogs Trust advises: “Whatever the breed, all dogs need basic preventative health care like vaccinations and flea and worming treatments. You’ll also need insurance to help cover the cost of vet bills.”
Understanding what makes your Border Collie tick will help you give them everything they need to love life! Read on to discover more about:
- BORDER COLLIE PERSONALITY PROFILE
- IS MY HOME SUITABLE FOR A BORDER COLLIE?
- HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A BORDER COLLIE NEED?
- WHAT SHOULD I FEED A BORDER COLLIE?
- HOW MUCH GROOMING DOES A BORDER COLLIE NEED?
- WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAIN A BORDER COLLIE?
- GETTING A BORDER COLLIE
BORDER COLLIE PERSONALITY PROFILE
Border Collies have been bred to have a deep connection with humans and need to feel they’re part of every activity. “Collies like to be part of the team and crave companionship,” says Valgrays Border Collie & Animal Rescue.
They are also sensitive souls who require devoted owners that will want to develop a strong partnership with them. “Border Collies are very sensitive – even the boisterous ones, and the quieter and calmer these dogs are handled the better they respond,” notes Freedom of Spirit Trust for Border Collies.
“Border Collies are quite emotional and don’t respond well in a rowdy environment. They’re also very sensitive to the touch, so please handle them with care,” says Sue Ketland.
Because of their incredible hearing ability, Border Collies can suffer with noise sensitivities and often struggle with noisy thunderstorms and fireworks. “Care should be taken when they are puppies to help them cope with these sounds to minimise the impact,” adds Sue Ketland.
The chasing instinct
Their innate chasing behaviour also has to be accommodated. “Remember what Border Collies are bred for –to chase and herd. This instinct varies from Collie to Collie, but we should always assume it is present,” advises Valgrays Border Collie & Animal Rescue.
“Known as a herding breed, Border Collies have a natural drive to chase things that move. If their urge to chase isn’t met, they are likely to try and chase cars, joggers, bikes, and scooters,” adds Sue Ketland. “Their owners should also be prepared to give up time to provide entertainment. In the absence of sheep, Border Collies love chasing a ball.”
Collies are natural problem-solvers
Their intelligence and desire to ‘do stuff’ means providing Border Collies with suitable outlets is essential. “Collies are problem-solving dogs, give them problems to deal with other than fetching the washing off the line,” adds Valgrays Border Collie & Animal Rescue. “You can teach a Collie tricks. Closing doors, taking the video out of the recorder – there’s no limit except your imagination and patience.”
Unfortunately, in inexperienced hands, Border Collies can develop behavioural issues. “There are far too many Collies in rescue and, sadly, many of them are young dogs who have been taken into rescue because their owners can’t cope with them,” says Freedom of Spirit Trust for Border Collies. “This is not the fault of the breed and in many cases nor is it the fault of the owner, but a mixture of poor advice and training techniques that wind Collies up rather than teach them patience.”
“Light and shadow chasing is another issue that comes to mind with Border Collies. This is another reason to not underestimate their psychological needs,” adds Sue Ketland. “Providing mental stimulation is important for every breed, but for Border Collies it’s essential. Get them started as a puppy to prevent undesired behaviours. If you’re going to be a successful Border Collie owner, you need to get clued up on dog training.”
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While experts agree that deciding to welcome a Border Collie into your life is something not to be undertaken lightly, it can be incredibly rewarding. “If a Border Collie lives a happy, content life with everything they need to satisfy their desires, they can be affectionate towards their owner,” says Sue Ketland. “All-in-all, the Border Collie is a loyal breed who will follow you around in the hope that something fun is about to happen. Once all their needs have been met, they love nothing more than a good snuggle on the sofa!”
Whatever the breed, every dog is unique
While each breed has certain identifiable traits, it’s important to remember that every dog is unique.
Dogs Trust says: “Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own unique personality and prior experiences. So, every Border Collie temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to situations in different ways. For example, some dogs might like meeting other dogs, and some may not. Some might like new experiences and others may need to go slowly.”
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IS MY HOME SUITABLE FOR A BORDER COLLIE?
To create a perfect canine/human partnership, it’s vital to think about what kind of energy and temperament you’d like your four-pawed friend to have so you’re a good match for each other – and that you can provide a suitable environment.
“It doesn’t matter the size of the home, as long as they have regular access to open fields where they can run and play,” says Sue Ketland. “A medium to large size garden is useful for keeping your dog entertained between walks. Border Collies are more suited to a rural location. They may find the hustle and bustle of city life particularly challenging and over-stimulating.” She adds that given their sensitivity to sound: “Living in a flat with noises from neighbours may result in frequent barking.”
“The top floor of a high-rise flat is not the home for them, but neither is the answer to buy an acre of land and let them run wild on it,” advises Freedom of Spirit Trust for Border Collies. “They need parenting, they need to be loved, they need to belong, and they need both mental and physical boundaries.”
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Border Collies need company
Because they love to hang out with their human family, Border Collies need someone who’s home most of the time. “Don’t leave a Collie alone all day,” says Valgrays Border Collie & Animal Rescue. “Three to four hours maximum for an adult, providing you give quality time later. Chewing is common, boredom or separation anxiety is often the cause.”
Border Collies and other pets
Border Collies may get along fine with other pets, but they do like to maintain order! “Collies can and often do live with other dogs and pets in the home, but early socialisation when they’re young is key,” says Sue Ketland. “They’re often known as the ‘fun police’, bossing everyone about and keeping them in line.”
Border Collies and children
Small children can prove a bit of a challenge for highly sensitive Border Collies. “To be honest, if you asked me to give you a list of the top family dogs, the Border Collie would not be on it,” advises Sue Ketland. “They are both sound and touch-sensitive which doesn’t mix well with noisy, physical youngsters. They’re bred to control flocks of sheep, so it’s common for them to try and herd children. As you can imagine, this can lead to a nip on the bum if they don’t move in the right direction. This isn’t in an aggressive way, it’s just a Border Collie doing their job.”
“Collies and small children together are a potential problem,” adds Valgrays Border Collie & Animal Rescue. “Toddlers are on the same eye level and stare. This is a challenge to any dog, particularly a Collie. Children make high-pitched noises and sudden movements which can trigger Collies.”
“Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world,” advises Dogs Trust. “They’ll have their own likes and dislikes and will respond to situations in different ways. However, there are some universal ways to behave safely around them and treat them with respect.”
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HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A BORDER COLLIE NEED?
If you love the great outdoors in all weathers, are a consummate ball thrower, enjoy thinking up new, challenging canine games, and appreciate the value of ongoing training, then you could have what it takes to be the perfect Border Collie owner.
“Border Collies are extremely active and require at least two good walks a day where they can burn off all that extra energy,” says Sue Ketland. “Border Collies also need to keep their minds busy with lots of mental exercise. A bored Collie is an unhappy dog, and their behaviour will tell you that. What makes them happy is learning new tricks as well as taking part in dog sports like agility, flyball, working trials, hoopers (a low-impact canine sport where dogs navigate a course of hoops, tunnels, and barrels) and more. There’s nothing a Border Collie cannot turn their paws to.”
“Your Collie will need a minimum of two hours exercise every day,” advises PDSA. “If you enjoy being outdoors a lot and know plenty of places your Collie can enjoy some safe, off-lead running then they could be a great breed for you. Owners considering a Collie will need a large, secure garden for them to play and run in between walks. On top of this, Collies love to keep their brains active, too! Make sure you have plenty of time to play with your dog, have training sessions and create some games that will really challenge their minds. Puzzle feeders are great for Collies.”
Along with plenty of exercise and mental challenges, another essential requirement for Border Collies is learning that a little chill out time can be enjoyable. “They don’t need hours of walking every day, but they do need a sensible walk, some quiet and constructive mental stimulation and a quiet time to themselves where they can rest and actually enjoy their own company,” advises Freedom of Spirit Trust for Border Collies.
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WHAT SHOULD I FEED A BORDER COLLIE?
To keep your Border Collie healthy and happy, choosing a balanced diet that suits them and meets all their nutritional needs is essential.
A well-exercised pet Border Collie, which the Kennel Club classifies as part of the Pastoral group (dogs bred for herding and working with livestock), may be considered by some as a ‘working breed’. But, he or she will not require the same higher calorie nutrition as an actual working Collie who’s running about on a farm all day long.
Burgess in-house vet, Dr Suzanne Moyes MVB MRCVS, who oversees recipe development and product production, advises: “When choosing food for Border Collies, it’s essential to bear in mind that the optimum diet for your dog is one that supplies the correct number of calories and balance of nutrients for their life stage and lifestyle. This means calculating the nutrient content and dietary components such as protein, fat, carbohydrate and vitamins and minerals required. All Burgess Dog Food is a complete food. So, whatever variety you choose for your dog, it will contain all the nutrients they need in the correct balance.”
The benefits of life stage food
Canine nutritional requirements vary throughout their life. Puppies need extra energy and other nutrients to support rapid growth. For adult dogs, providing a nutritionally balanced, complete diet will help keep them in tip top condition during the prime of their life. Many older dogs develop specific conditions, such as arthritis – some of which can be eased by feeding a diet designed just for them.
Feeding tips
Split your Border Collie’s daily allowance into two meals and try to feed your dog at the same time every day. Measure out precise portion sizes. Recommended feeding amounts can be found on dog food packaging, but always ask your vet if you’re not sure. Giving your dog a little more than they need means they could become overweight. If you don’t feed enough, your dog will not be getting all the nutrients they need and will become underweight. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising.
If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of their daily calorie intake as this can unbalance their diet
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HOW MUCH GROOMING DOES A BORDER COLLIE NEED?
Border Collies have two coat varieties – medium length or smooth – which come in a variety of colours including black, white and tan.
“Whatever type of fur yours has, you’ll need to keep on top of grooming,” advises Sue Ketland. “This breed has double coats, which means their undercoat is soft and thick, while their topcoat is coarse or silky. A slicker brush and comb will keep the topcoat looking good and knot-free. Be sure to check for grass seeds after every summer walk, especially their eyes, ears and between their toes.”
Dogs Trust adds: “Generally, Border Collies will need brushing a couple of times a week. This keeps their coat in good condition and gets rid of dead hairs. To help your dog feel comfortable with handling and grooming, introduce it in a positive way, one step at a time. Teaching your dog to feel relaxed and confident will make grooming more enjoyable for everyone.”
Regular teeth cleaning is also important to help to prevent plaque and tartar from building up and keep gums healthy.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAIN A BORDER COLLIE?
When it comes to training any dog, it’s all about positive learning, and, with Border Collies, you’ll have a dog that has everything it takes to be top of the class!
“As long as plenty of treats and praise are offered, Border Collies love to learn. They are incredibly intelligent and it’s so rewarding to see them learn new things,” says Sue Ketland.
And, while breed experts agree that Border Collies learn much more quickly than other breeds, if they’re bored, they will find things to do – usually things that you don’t want them to do.
“It’s important to keep up a young Border Collie’s education because if you don’t, they are likely to find their own entertainment,” adds Sue Ketland. “All puppies need to learn how to be around people, pets, and other dogs, calmly and politely (known as socialisation).They also need help to feel calm, comfortable, and confident in everyday situations like travelling, the sound of traffic, and being in busy places (known as habituation). This is essential to prevent tricky behavioural problems in the future, and you'll be off to a great start with your ongoing training. Keep the training topped up, even when your dog reaches adulthood and always remember to reward good behaviour.”
Certified trainer Karen Pryor, who has an MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour, says: “People often ask for Collie training tips including how often they should train their puppy. My answer is ALL THE TIME. If you don’t teach your Collie puppy, they will still be learning and the chances, are she is learning things you don’t want her to learn. When training a Collie puppy, it’s important to remember that this is a breed with unique qualities.”
Border Collie expert and certified trainer Rachel Rodgers agrees, stating: “Successful Border Collie training involves working with Collies' natural behaviours rather than trying to suppress them. Once they reach about 12-18 months old, they are an absolute joy to own, but ONLY if you have the knowledge to understand them and have successfully navigated them through all the things that can go wrong. Starting your Border Collie training while your puppy is very young will help to ensure that all the right things are learned, and all the wrong things are NOT learned.”
Dogs Trust suggests: “Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Whether it’s small food treats, toys or lots of praise, training with rewards is the best way for your dog to learn. As dogs are clever animals, they need suitable mental and physical exercise so that they don't get bored. Learning useful life skills such as recall, loose lead walking and settling are just as important. This ensures that you and your dog can spend enjoyable time together, both at home and out and about.”
For expert advice and practical training guidance, visit Dogs Trust Dog School >>
GETTING A BORDER COLLIE
“Do plenty of research before getting a Border Collie,” advises PDSA. “Owning one takes a lot of time and commitment and you need to make sure you’re able to give them all the exercise and stimulation they need to stay happy and healthy. Collies are loving and loyal dogs and you’ll get plenty in return for the time you spend with them.”
“Choose a licensed and reputable Border Collie breeder if you’re buying a puppy,” says Petplan. “‘Lucy’s Law’ dictates that new puppies or kittens must be bought directly from a breeder or adopted from rescue. Third party sellers are illegal.”
PDSA adds: “If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. It’s really important that Collie puppies from a breeder get the right early socialisation, so always ask the breeder about how they go about this. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured Breeder as they meet higher standards.”
The comprehensive puppy checklist >>
Alternatively, there are a number of rescue organisations around the country, including Dogs Trust, Woodgreen and Battersea, along with breed-specific rescues such as Border Collie Trust GB, The Border Collie Spot, Freedom of Spirit Trust for Border Collies, Valgrays Border Collie & Animal Rescue and the Border Collies in UK rescues needing forever homes Facebook page who would love to hear from you.
Staff will seek to match you with the right dog for your home and lifestyle and provide you with support and useful information about the breed. By choosing a rescue Border Collie, you’ll be giving one of these amazing dogs a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life.
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Need more advice?
If you’re at all unsure about the best way of feeding your dog or have any concerns about specific nutritional requirements, ask your local veterinary practice for advice. You can also call our expert team, available 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, on +44 (0)1405 862241 who’ll be happy to help. Alternatively, use our online contact form to get in touch.
CARE MORE Find lots of useful advice on caring for your dog from Burgess, the pet experts >>
SOMETHING TASTY FOR EVERY DOG
Every dog deserves a first-class dinner from puppy to adult and senior. Burgess Pet Care is a British, family-owned company and all our dog foods are made at our own factory in the heart of Yorkshire, using only ingredients that meet our stringent specifications – locally sourced wherever possible to support British farmers
We’ve also developed foods to meet the specific nutritional needs of sporting and working dogs, Greyhounds and Lurchers and dogs with sensitivities.
All Burgess dog food is a complete food. This means, whatever variety you choose for your dog, it will contain all the nutrients they need in the correct balance. By choosing Burgess dog food, you know you can feed your canine companion with complete confidence.
Good to know
- COMPLETE NUTRITION Each of the recipes in the Burgess Dog Food range are complete, providing all the nutrients dogs require in the right proportions.
- PORTION CONTROL With dry food, it’s easy to measure out the right sized portion to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.
- HEALTHY AND SAFE The thorough cooking process ensures that any harmful bacteria, such as salmonella, and viruses are destroyed, and the dry food stays fresh inside the pack.
- TEETH FRIENDLY Dry dog food has the added benefit of exercising your dog’s chewing muscles and provides a mild cleaning effect on the teeth.
- MADE IN BRITAIN Crafted at Burgess Pet Care’s own factory in the heart of Yorkshire, Burgess Dog Food contains high-quality ingredients that meet stringent specifications, locally sourced wherever possible to support British farmers.
With a whole host of *5 STAR REVIEWS*, our customers have told us:
* “An excellent dog food, definitely a market leading brand. My dog thrives on it, no upset stomach ever.” * “Our dogs just love it, and it keeps them happy.” * “Good value, wholesome food.” * “Edward (dog) is in raptures over this, he just can't get enough of it.” * “Our Ruby loves this food. In fact, she tries to open the food bin to steal it. That’s proof enough.” * “My dogs love it, it satisfies them, so it makes them happy and contented which makes me happy as they are thriving on it.” * “A leader amongst dog foods.” *
Lamb? Turkey? Salmon? Your dog can try them all with our Burgess Sensitive Bundle >>
Is your dog a Burgess dog? Join the Burgess Pet Club for exclusive offers and rewards.
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