Health

Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

Common health issues:

• Hip dysplasia
  
  
• Collie eye anomaly (CEA) and other hereditary eye conditions
  
  
• Epilepsy (in some lines)
  
  
• Deafness (rare)
  
  
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  
  

Routine vet checks and responsible breeding can help reduce these risks.

Grooming

• Regular brushing, at least twice a week for rough coats, less for smooth coats
  
  
• Seasonal shedding requires more frequent grooming
  
  
• Occasional baths and regular ear and dental care
  
  

Grooming also serves as bonding time and helps keep the coat healthy.

Exercise

Border Collies need:

• At least 1 to 2 hours of vigorous exercise daily
  
  
• Activities such as running, fetch, frisbee, herding trials, agility, and obedience training
  
  
• Mental challenges to prevent boredom, like puzzle toys or advanced obedience commands
  
  

A bored Border Collie may develop destructive behaviors, so exercise and mental engagement are crucial.

Training

Border Collies are:

• Exceptionally intelligent and quick learners
  
  
• Highly responsive to positive reinforcement and reward-based training
  
  
• Sensitive to tone and body language, needing gentle, consistent leadership
  
  
• Thriving in structured training programs such as agility, obedience, and herding competitions
  
  

Early socialization is important to prevent shyness or over-focus.

Nutrition

Key nutritional points:

• Feed high-quality dog food suited for active, medium-sized breeds
  
  
• Balance calories to maintain ideal weight and energy levels
  
  
• Provide fresh water at all times
  
  
• Consider supplements like glucosamine for joint support if very active