Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Very active owners
- Dog sports like agility
- Experienced owners
Watch out for
- Gets destructive or anxious without work to do
- Intense herding instinct
- Not suited to apartments
Daily care
Exercise: 2 hours a day of running, play and training.
Grooming: Brush weekly.
Cold weather: Handles cold well; many love playing in snow.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Border Collie
Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- FoodMedium breed dog food
Formulas made for medium breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate36-inch dog crate
A 36" crate fits most adult Border Collies (up to about 55 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysDurable chew and fetch toys
Border Collies have a lot of energy; tough rubber toys and balls hold up to hard play.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Border Collie near you
We're building a list of trusted Border Collie rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Border Collie page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Border Collie rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Border Collie is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
Compare: Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie
Medium · 35–60 lb👪 Good family dogSiberian HuskyBuilt for snow and endless running. Huskies are friendly and striking, but need a lot of exercise and a secure yard.
Medium · 40–65 lb👪 Good family dogAustralian ShepherdA brilliant, tireless herding dog. Aussies are loyal and fun, but need a job and plenty of exercise every day.Medium · 40–50 lb👪 Good family dogBulldogCalm, sweet and famously lazy. Bulldogs are easygoing companions, but come with real health costs.