Border Collie
BOR-dur KAH-lee
Intelligent, Energetic, Tenacious, Responsive. Originally bred for herding sheep with intense eye contact and stalking behavior.
An adult Border Collie weighs 35-55 lbs (male) or 30-45 lbs (female), needs 790-1,950 calories daily, and lives 12-15 yrs. This medium-sized breed balances well between manageable size and robust health. The breed's primary health watch is hip dysplasia. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Border Collie needs 790 to 1,950 calories per day. An average male (45 lbs / 20.4 kg) needs around 1,380 kcal; a female (38 lbs / 17.0 kg) roughly 1,200 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Border Collie. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
The Border Collie has a life expectancy of 12-15 yrs, which is typical for dogs in this size range. The breed's primary health concerns are hip dysplasia and collie eye anomaly, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
Widely considered the most intelligent dog breed, which means they need extraordinary amounts of both physical and mental exercise. 90+ minutes of vigorous activity daily, plus training, puzzle toys, or a job. Herding, agility, flyball, or frisbee are ideal. Herding instincts run deep in the Border Collie. Without a job to do, they may try to herd children, other pets, or even passing cars. Channel that drive into structured activities: agility, flyball, advanced obedience, or herding trials if available in your area. Without sufficient exercise, the Border Collie is likely to develop destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety. This is a breed that needs daily commitment to physical activity.
Care and traits
Border Collies have a medium-length double coat (rough or smooth varieties) coat. Origin: Anglo-Scottish border region.
Border Collie collapse (BCC) causes temporary neurological episodes after intense exercise; distinct from heat stroke. Their herding instinct is very strong; they may try to herd children, other pets, or moving objects. A Border Collie without enough stimulation will develop obsessive behaviors.
Heavy shedding is a reality with this breed. Expect dog hair on furniture, clothing, and in every corner of your home. A good vacuum, lint rollers, and acceptance are your best tools. Shedding typically increases during seasonal coat changes in spring and fall.
The Border Collie responds exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training. Their eagerness to learn makes them suitable for advanced obedience, trick training, and competitive sports. Start training early and keep sessions varied to maintain their interest.
Tools for Border Collie owners
Frequently asked questions
Daily calorie needs for a Border Collie range from 790 to 1950 kcal. A 45-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Adjust portions seasonally if your dog is more active in warmer months and less active in winter. Working or competition dogs may need 20-30% more than resting estimates. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 35-55 lbs (15.9–24.9 kg). Females run lighter at 30-45 lbs (13.6–20.4 kg). Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being visually obvious, especially those with thick coats. Hands-on rib checks are more reliable than looking. Check body condition by feeling the ribs (they should be easy to find), viewing from above (waist should narrow behind the ribs), and from the side (abdomen should tuck up behind the ribcage).
Among Border Collies, hip dysplasia is the condition most frequently diagnosed. Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition where the hip joint doesn't fit together properly. Screening through OFA or PennHIP before breeding is standard practice. In pet dogs, maintaining a lean body weight is the most effective way to manage and slow progression. Other conditions seen in the breed include collie eye anomaly, epilepsy, border collie collapse. Regular vet visits with breed-specific screening catch problems when they are most treatable.
The Border Collie is built for activity and needs 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. Good activities for this breed include agility, herding trials, frisbee. Mix physical activity with mental challenges like training, puzzle feeders, or nose work. An under-exercised Border Collie will find outlets for pent-up energy, often in ways you will not appreciate: chewing, barking, digging, or restless pacing.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026