Border Collie

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) is a rare but serious inherited neurological disease seen in show Border Collies.^[1]

Border Collie Collapse can occur after intense exercise, causing disorientation, unsteady legs and the need to lie down.^[1]

Border Collies have a higher-than-average risk of liver tumours - one study found them 2.67 times more likely than other breeds.^[1]

A mutation in the MDR1 gene makes some Border Collies more sensitive to certain common drugs - always inform your vet of this risk.^[1]

Cancer is the leading cause of death in the breed, accounting for nearly a quarter of deaths in one survey.^[1]

Collie eye anomaly is an inherited eye condition that can affect Border Collies - owners should be aware of this risk.^[1]

Border Collies can be born deaf or develop adult-onset hearing loss anywhere between one and eight years of age.^[1]

Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS) is a hereditary immune condition found in the breed - a DNA test can identify carriers.^[1]

Border Collies have a higher-than-average risk of liver tumours - one study found them 2.67 times more likely to develop hepatic neoplasia.^[1]

Border Collie Collapse can cause disorientation, unsteady hind legs, and the need to lie down after intense or exciting exercise.^[1]

A mutation in the MDR1 gene makes some Border Collies unusually sensitive to certain common drugs - owners should inform their vet of this risk.^[1]

Border Collies can inherit Collie Eye Anomaly, a genetic eye condition - DNA testing is available.^[1]

Two types of hearing loss occur in the breed - one present from birth in puppies, and one that develops gradually between ages 1 and 8.^[1]

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) is a rare but serious neurological disease in show Border Collies - a DNA test exists to detect carriers.^[1]

Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome is a hereditary immune deficiency found in the breed - a DNA test is available to identify carriers.^[1]

Border Collies are highly intelligent - widely claimed to be the most intelligent dog breed - so they need mental stimulation to stay settled.^[1]

They are herding dogs by nature, bred to work sheep, so they have strong instincts to chase and control moving things including people or other animals.^[1]

They are medium-sized dogs with a thick double coat that sheds regularly, so expect loose hair and plan for brushing sessions.^[1]

The coat ranges from smooth to rough and can be curly, so check the individual dog's coat type before grooming to choose the right tools.^[1]

They are bred as working or companion animals, suggesting they bond closely with handlers and respond well to calm, purposeful direction.^[1]

A key ancestor was described as quiet and powerful, and sheep responded to him easily - calm, confident handling suits this breed well.^[1]

High-intensity exciting activities can be very stimulating for Border Collies, so keep sessions controlled and watch for signs of over-arousal.^[1]

They are a herding breed with strong working instincts, so expect high energy levels and a strong drive to be active.^[1]

They were bred to work closely with a handler, making them biddable and responsive to direction when well engaged.^[1]

Their thick double coat sheds moderately to heavily, so regular brushing is needed and shedding should be expected during grooming.^[1]

They are medium-sized dogs, so handling and equipment should be sized accordingly - not too large or too small.^[1]

They are kept both as working sheepdogs and companion animals, so individual dogs may vary in how settled or driven they are.^[1]

Border Collies are considered highly intelligent, so they need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise to stay settled.^[1]