Information about Border Collies.

Border Collies are a mixed breed between Roman herding dogs and Viking Spitz herding dogs. The Border Collie originates from the Anglo-Scottish border, where it was born and developed. Originally bred to be a sheep dog, they are also very playful in nature.

Interested in learning about this breed? Here’s some information about Border Collies and whether they’re a match for you.

Border Collie breed information.

If you’d like to get to know the breed a little more closely, here are a few key traits and facts about the Border Collie:

How long do Border Collies live?

Border Collies usually live for up to 12 to 15 years.

How big do Border Collies get?

Border Collies are medium dogs at maturity. Border Collies males stand between 48 and 55cm tall and usually weigh around 18 and 25kgs. Females stand at around 45 and 51cm tall and usually weigh about 14 and 20kg.

Do Border Collies shed?

The Border Collie coat comes in black, fawn, and gold, and just as with most dog breeds, their final coat colour is not revealed until the puppy coat has shed. Border Collies frequently shed large amounts of fur, so occasional brushing is recommended.

Should I get a Border Collie?

A Border Collie’s instinct is to graze or explore rather than simply enjoying being with its family. Socialising Border Collies early with positive exposure to different people and pets is important to help them grow into good family dogs and to help them befriend other pets.

The Border Collie is usually a dog for active owners. Border Collies tend to excel at agility, obedience, rally, and chase competitions, as well as dog sports like flyball.

Generally, Border Collies do not like being alone. Going on walks and letting them roam around may not be enough for this dog breed, who would prefer having someone to run around with them. 

Should I get an Border Collie?

Set your dog up for success!

Finding the right dog trainer can make all the difference. Learn what to look for to ensure the best fit for your pup!

Read more
PetRescue

Border Collie personality.

Border Collies are usually loyal and loving family dogs and tend to work very intelligently and instinctively. They are vibrant, energetic, kind, and friendly dogs. Their high intellect also means that they need a lot of stimuli.

A Border Collie's intellect and manageable nature means they are usually easy to train. As they were originally bred as herd dogs, they generally need an owner that can put the time and energy into their training.

 

Taking care of a Border Collie.

Grooming.

The Border Collie’s medium structure and a short and dense undercoat provides excellent insulation and weather protection. It also tends not to be matted or entangled. An occasional brush to get rid of old hair is recommended.

Exercise.

The energetic and athletic Border Collie generally requires daily exercise as well as walking around the blocks.

Diet.

A Border Collie’s diet should be tailored to the age of the dog (puppy, adult, or elderly). It would need to be tailored as needs change with age under the supervision of your veterinarian. Be aware of your Border Collie's calorie consumption and weight, as some dogs are prone to obesity.

Commonly claimed health conditions for a Border Collie.

Just like us, our pets can be affected by different illnesses, health conditions and unexpected accidental injuries. Here are some of the more commonly claimed conditions^ that a Border Collie can experience.

Conditions.
 Symptoms can include.◇
 Highest cost for a single treatment.8
Arthritis.

Lameness or limping on affected limb(s).

Stiffness on rising.

Reluctance to jump, use stairs.

Swelling on legs.

$7,657.
Skin conditions (including infections and allergies).

Scratching, biting, or rubbing the skin.

Signs of irritation including red skin, scabs, bleeding, pustules, or weeping.

Hair loss, flaky skin, texture changes, lumps or an unusual or unpleasant smell.

$3,086.
Gastrointestinal tract condition.

Diarrhoea, vomiting or constipation.

Blood or mucus in stool/vomit.

Increased frequency/urgency passing stool.

Weight loss.

Loss of appetite and interest in food.

May seem more tired than usual.

$8,549.
Traumatic accidents (including bite injuries, wounds and broken bones).

Wounds, scratches, pus, bleeding, swelling, heat, pain.

Limping, changes to movement.

Behaviour changes.

Broken claws.

Pain/tenderness.

$15,579.
Ear conditions (including infections and allergies).

Scratching, rubbing, or pawing at one or both ears.

Head shaking.

Odour or discharge from the ears.

Ears may be red or warm to the touch.

$4,030.

The cost of insuring a Border Collie.

If you’re thinking about getting pet insurance for your Border Collie, factors like age and location could affect the cost of your premium. Everyday Pet Insurance offers cover with optional benefits to help protect you and your furry friend. Learn more about the benefits of Everyday Pet Insurance here.

Need Pet Insurance for your Border Collie?

Why pick Everyday Pet Insurance?

Choose your annual benefit limit up to $7.5k, $12.5k, $24k or $35k.#

Get up to 70%, 80% or 90% back on eligible vet bills.#

 

We process 90% of claims within just 1 day.»~


Claim on the spot & only pay the gap with GapOnly.®=
 

Related articles.

Golden Retriever dog breed information

Learn more

Golden Retriever

German Shepherd dog breed information

Learn more

German Shepherd

Labrador dog breed information

Learn more

Labrador

Groodle dog breed information

Learn more

Groodle

Important Information.

text

^ Pre-existing conditions and certain illnesses may be excluded. Policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits, benefit limits, sub-limits, annual condition limits and excess may apply. For details, please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).

◇ Symptoms listed are indicative only, others can apply.

8 As at 31/12/2023 based on the previous 12 months of PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd claims data.

text

# Depending on your level of cover. Policy T&Cs, limits, exclusions, waiting periods and annual excess may apply.

text

>> Once all required claims documentation has been received.

~ Based on PetSure data February 2023 to January 2024.

text

= The gap is defined as the difference between the vet's invoice and the claim benefit under your policy. Policy terms and conditions apply. GapOnly® is only available at participating Vets. Please visit GapOnly® to search for GapOnly® enabled vets. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (PetSure) (ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183).

text

Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time prior to 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436 (Hollard), arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by Hollard’s Authorised Representative (AR) Woolworths Group Limited ABN 88 000 014 675, AR 245476 (Woolworths).

Everyday Pet Insurance policies entered into for the first time on or after 17 July 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s ARs, Woolworths Group Limited ABN 88 000 014 675, AR 245476 (Woolworths), and PetRescue Ltd ABN 35 123 057 536, AR 1307442.

Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at insurance.everyday.com.au/pet-insurance.

footer-acknowledgement

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples and acknowledge Elders past and present.

Read more about our commitment to reconciliation

Car, Home, and Landlords Insurance are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473 AFSL No. 241436 (Hollard). Pet Insurance policies are issued by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183, except for those entered into before 17 July 2023 & subsequent renewals, which are issued by Hollard. Travel Insurance policies are issued by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193 and administered by nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461. Roadside assistance is provided by Digicall Assist Pty Ltd ABN 92 152 605 340. 

Woolworths Group Limited, AR 245476 acts as Hollard, PetSure and nib’s Authorised Representative.

Any general advice provided does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), Financial Services Guide (FSG), and Target Market Determination (TMD) available on this website, to decide if the product is right for you.

© Woolworths Group Limited 2025. All rights reserved. ABN 88 000 014 675