Border Collie – The World's Smartest Sheepdog

The Border Collie is the smartest dog breed in the world, known for its exceptional speed and ability to control sheep using eye contact. It has an average lifespan of 14 years.

The Border Collie originates from the border region between Scotland and England and is a world-renowned herding dog. It is highly intelligent, obedient, hardworking, and capable of directing sheep with just its gaze.

In today’s article, let's explore the Border Collie in detail with dog breed!

Origin and History of the Border Collie

Black and White Border Collie

Origin of the Border Collie

The Border Collie originates from the border region between Scotland and England, an area known for its sheep farming and mountainous terrain. The name "Border" refers to the borderlands, while "Collie" means sheepdog.

This breed was developed from English floppy-eared sheepdogs and was initially called the "Scotch Sheep Dog."

History and Development of the Border Collie

• 18th - 19th Century: Scottish (English) farmers wanted to create an intelligent, agile dog capable of controlling sheep through eye contact, leading to the breeding of the Border Collie.
• The ancestor: Of all Collies is Old Hemp, a legendary sheepdog known for its extraordinary intelligence.
• 1860: The breed was exported to the United States, where it became one of the world's most famous sheepdogs.
• 1995: The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Border Collie as a distinct purebred breed.
• Thanks to: Its intelligence, agility, obedience, and adorable appearance, the Border Collie has become a popular family pet worldwide.

Physical Appearance of the Border Collie

Border Collie – Thick, Double-Layered Coat

The Border Collie has a balanced, agile body. If you want to identify a purebred Border Collie, pay attention to the following physical characteristics:

Physical Characteristics of a Border Collie

• Height: Males 48 - 56 cm, Females 46 - 53 cm
• Weight: Males 14 - 20 kg, Females 12 - 18 kg
• Body Shape: Longer torso compared to height, deep chest, long and straight legs, long, flexible neck, Highly agile and athletic build
• Head: Compact and well-proportioned, long muzzle, sharp and intelligent facial expression
• Eyes: Large, oval-shaped, usually brown, blue, or heterochromatic (one eye of each color) , Widely spaced eyes with an intense gaze used to control sheep
• Ears: No fixed standard – can be large or small, erect or floppy, depending on the individual dog
• Coat: Can be long or short, always thick and double-layered, Common colors Black & White, Red & White, Blue Merle, Yellow & White, Tricolor, Self-cleaning coat, making maintenance easier
• Tail: Long, bushy, slightly curved at the tip
• Gait: Graceful, smooth, and fast movement, Lowers its head when running, giving it a signature "stalking" motion
• Lifespan: Approximately 14 years

Border Collie’s Personality Traits

Border Collie Loves to Run and Play

In addition to being the smartest dog in the world, the Border Collie is also loyal, obedient, and highly skilled at working. Let's explore the personality traits that make this breed so special.

Personality Traits of the Border Collie

The Smartest Dog in the World

The Border Collie is ranked as the most intelligent dog breed in the world. It can understand and respond to over 1,000 words and commands and is capable of working independently or following instructions.

Due to their extreme intelligence, Border Collies can get bored easily and may come up with their own mischievous activities if not given enough mental stimulation.

Studies suggest that Border Collies have the intelligence level of a 2 to 3-year-old child.

Highly Perceptive – Controls Sheep with Its Eyes (Eye-Stalking)

Border Collies have an incredibly sharp sense of observation and can quickly recognize and respond to human eye contact and gestures.

One of their most unique abilities is their "eye-stalking" technique, which allows them to control and herd sheep using only their gaze—a skill that not all sheepdog breeds possess.

Energetic, Loves Running, and Extremely Fast

As a working sheepdog, the Border Collie has boundless energy and can play all day without tiring.

• Top speed 48 km/h (making it one of the fastest dog breeds)
• Excels at high jumps and obstacle courses

Loyal and Obedient

Border Collies are extremely loyal and follow commands diligently. They wait for specific cues from their owners before taking action.

They also perform even better when they receive verbal praise and encouragement from their owners.

Highly Alert but Not Aggressive

Border Collies have high situational awareness and will bark to alert their owners if they detect an intruder. However, they are not naturally aggressive and do not pose a threat to strangers unless trained for protection.

How to Care for a Border Collie

Border Collie Being Groomed and Trimmed

If you want to properly care for a Border Collie, follow these detailed guidelines on nutrition, grooming, hygiene, vaccination, and overall care provided below.

Border Collie Nutrition Guide

The Border Collie is not a picky eater and requires a substantial diet to support its high energy levels.

• Daily food intake 3.2 - 3.7% of body weight
• Meals per day 2 - 3 meals
• Nutritional breakdown:
• 24 - 30% protein (for muscle growth and energy)
• 12 - 16% fat (for energy and coat health)
• The remaining percentage includes fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals

Recommended Foods for Border Collies:

• Protein sources: Lean meats such as beef, pork, chicken breast, fish
• Eggs: Duck eggs, chicken eggs (for a shiny coat)
• Vegetables: Carrots, spinach, green beans, pumpkin (for fiber and vitamins)
• Carbohydrates: Rice, brown rice, cooked rice (for quick energy)

Foods Border Collies Should Avoid:

• Oily, fried foods
• Spicy, salty, or sugary foods
• Onions and garlic (toxic to dogs)
• Chocolate, candy, and sweet snacks (can cause poisoning)

Exercise and Training for Border Collies

The Border Collie is an energetic and active breed. Without proper exercise, it may develop destructive behaviors such as chewing furniture or excessive barking. To prevent this, establish a daily workout plan:

• Outdoor exercise: At least 45 - 60 minutes per day (walking, running, playing)
• Agility training: Obstacle courses, fetch, frisbee games
• Mental stimulation: Puzzle games, finding hidden objects, opening doors
• Not suitable for: Busy owners or people living in small apartments without space for activities

Border Collie Grooming and Hygiene Care

Many owners wonder, "Do Border Collies shed?" – Yes, they shed all year round, especially because of their thick double coat. Proper grooming is essential to keep their fur clean and manageable.

• Brush regularly with a specialized dog brush
• Bathe 1 - 2 times per month (only when dirty)
• Dry thoroughly after bathing to prevent skin infections
• Clean ears weekly with saline solution
• Wipe eyes daily with a damp cloth
• Brush teeth 3 - 4 times per week
• Trim nails when they grow too long

Vaccination and Health Checkups for Border Collies

To keep your Border Collie healthy and free from infectious diseases, follow a vaccination and deworming schedule:

Essential Vaccinations:

• 5-in-1 or 7-in-1 vaccine: Protects against distemper, parvo, hepatitis, influenza, kennel cough, leptospirosis, and coronavirus
• Rabies vaccine: Required to prevent rabies infection
• Deworming: Regular deworming based on veterinarian recommendations
• Annual health check-ups: 1 - 2 times per year to detect genetic diseases early

Common Health Issues in Border Collies

Border Collies Are Prone to Certain Genetic Diseases

The Border Collie is susceptible to several inherited and environmental diseases. Understanding these common health issues can help owners recognize symptoms and take preventive measures.

1. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a common eye disease in Border Collies. It gradually leads to vision loss and, eventually, blindness. There is no permanent cure, but medication can slow the disease's progression.

• Cause: Genetic inheritance
• Symptoms: Difficulty seeing in low light, followed by gradual vision deterioration and potential complete blindness
• Prevention: Verify health records and lineage before purchasing a puppy, Regular veterinary check-ups to detect early signs

2. Hip Dysplasia in Border Collies

Hip dysplasia is a common genetic disorder affecting many dog breeds, including Border Collies. It causes abnormal hip joint development, leading to mobility issues and discomfort.

• Cause: Genetic inheritance
• Symptoms: Limping or difficulty walking, Reduced activity and reluctance to run or jump
• Prevention: Moderate exercise (avoid excessive strain), Supplements like Omega-3 and glucosamine to support joint health

3. Border Collie Collapse (BCC)

Border Collie Collapse (BCC) is a neurological disorder that occurs when a Collie overexerts itself, leading to trembling and fainting.

• Cause: Overexertion during intense activity
• Symptoms: Trembling, staggering, and sudden weakness after exercise
• Prevention: Avoid excessive physical exertion, Ensure proper rest between activities

Border Collie Price Guide & Buying Tips

Border Collie Price Chart

If you're considering getting a Border Collie, here is a reference price chart based on the dog's origin and purity:

Buying Tips for a Border Collie

Before purchasing a Border Collie, consider these important factors:

• Determine your purpose – Are you looking for a pet or a competition-level Collie? This will help you choose the right price and origin.
• Buy only from reputable Border Collie breeders to ensure proper health and lineage.
• Choose a healthy puppy – Look for signs of alertness, energy, and clean skin/fur. Avoid puppies showing signs of illness, skin infections, or weak posture.

Trusted Border Collie Breeding Farms in Vietnam

If you're looking for a Border Collie in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, here are some reputable breeders:

• AZPet (Located in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City)
• Laputa Farm
• Mật PET Family

Collection of Adorable Border Collie Photos

Below, we've gathered some of the cutest and most beautiful Border Collie images. Enjoy!

Adorable Border Collie Puppy Photo

A Stunning Tricolor Border Collie Photo.

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Photo of a Brown and White Border Collie

Collie Dog Wallpapers for Your Computer

With the detailed information shared above, giongcho.org hopes that readers now have a better understanding of the Border Collie breed. If you're looking for a smart, obedient, and beautiful dog, the Border Collie is the perfect choice!

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