Border Collie

The Border Collie isn't just smart — they're widely regarded as the most intelligent dog breed on the planet. Developed on the Scottish-English border for herding sheep across rugged terrain, the Border Collie combines an extraordinary work ethic, unmatched trainability, and a deep desire to partner with their human.

In Australia, the Border Collie has been a cornerstone of farming life for generations. But they've long since moved beyond the paddock. Today, you'll find Border Collies excelling in agility, obedience, flyball, disc dog, search and rescue, and as beloved family companions in suburban homes across the country.

However — and this is important — the Border Collie is not a breed for everyone. Their intelligence and drive are magnificent, but they require an owner who understands and can meet their significant needs. If you're searching for Border Collie puppies for sale in Australia, this guide will help you determine whether this remarkable breed is the right fit for your life. When you're ready, find verified Border Collie breeders on Doggo.

Understanding the Border Collie temperament requires appreciating that this is, first and foremost, a working dog. Everything about their personality stems from centuries of selective breeding for herding ability.

Core personality traits:

• Extraordinarily intelligent — the Border Collie consistently tops canine intelligence rankings. They can learn new commands in under five repetitions and obey known commands 95% of the time. Some have demonstrated vocabularies of over 1,000 words.
• Intensely focused — when a Border Collie locks onto a task, their concentration is remarkable. This is the famous "eye" — the intense, fixed stare they use when herding.
• High energy and drive — these are dogs that were bred to work all day in demanding conditions. They have stamina and motivation that far exceeds most other breeds.
• Sensitive and responsive — Border Collies are attuned to the subtlest cues from their handler. A slight shift in body language or tone of voice is enough to redirect them.
• Loyal and devoted — they bond deeply with their primary handler and family, often choosing one person as "their" person.
• Alert and watchful — nothing escapes a Border Collie's notice. They're always observing, always processing.

The other side of brilliance:

The same qualities that make Border Collies exceptional can make them challenging:

• They need a job. Without purposeful activity, Border Collies become anxious, destructive, or develop obsessive behaviours (shadow chasing, light fixation, compulsive spinning).
• Herding instincts are strong. They may try to herd children, other pets, cars, bikes, joggers — anything that moves.
• They can be reactive. Under-socialised or under-stimulated Border Collies may develop fear-based reactivity to other dogs, strangers, or novel situations.
• Noise sensitivity is common. Many Border Collies are sensitive to loud noises, thunderstorms, and fireworks.
• They're not great at doing nothing. If you want a dog that's happy to lounge around the house, look elsewhere.

The ideal Border Collie owner is someone who genuinely enjoys training, values an active lifestyle, and wants a dog that's a true partner rather than a passive pet. When their needs are met, Border Collies are breathtakingly wonderful dogs — responsive, loyal, athletic, and endlessly fascinating.

The Border Collie is a medium-sized, athletic dog built for speed, agility, and endurance.

• Height: 46–53 cm (dogs); 43–51 cm (bitches)
• Weight: 14–22 kg
• Build: Athletic and balanced, with a slightly longer body than tall, built for swift, crouching movement

Coat varieties:

Border Collies come in two coat types:

• Rough coat — medium to long, with feathering on the legs, chest, and tail. The more common type.
• Smooth coat — shorter, closer-lying coat with minimal feathering. Less common but equally correct.

Both coat types have a dense undercoat for weather protection.

Colours and patterns:

Border Collies come in an incredible range of colours:

• Black and white — the classic, most recognisable colour
• Red (chocolate) and white
• Blue merle — grey marbled with black, often with striking blue eyes
• Red merle
• Tricolour — black, white, and tan
• Sable
• Blue — a dilute of black
• Lilac — a dilute of chocolate
• And many more combinations

While the black and white Border Collie is iconic, all colours are equally valid. Some colours (like merle) require careful breeding to avoid associated health issues.

Border Collies are generally healthy, hardy dogs with good longevity for their size.

Average lifespan: 12–15 years, with many reaching 14–15 years.

Key health conditions:

• Hip dysplasia — responsible breeders hip-score their dogs. Look for scores below the breed average.
• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) — a congenital eye condition; DNA testable. Responsible breeders test for this.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) — DNA testable
• Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS) — a fatal immune condition; DNA testable
• Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (CL) — a fatal neurological condition; DNA testable
• Epilepsy — occurs in the breed; no DNA test currently available, so breeding history matters
• Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) — a joint condition, more common in rapidly growing dogs
• Deafness — can be associated with merle colouring, particularly double merle
• Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC) — DNA testable

Essential health testing for breeding Border Collies:

• Hip scoring (and ideally elbow scoring)
• DNA testing for CEA, TNS, CL, PRA, and other breed-relevant conditions
• Eye examination through the Australian Canine Eye Scheme
• Hearing test (especially for merle dogs)

A note on merle breeding: Responsible breeders never breed two merle dogs together (double merle), as this can result in puppies with serious vision and hearing defects. Always confirm merle breeding is done responsibly.

Border Collie grooming is moderate and straightforward compared to many breeds.

Grooming routine:

• Brushing: 2–3 times per week for rough coats, once weekly for smooth coats. Daily during shedding season.
• Bathing: Every 4–8 weeks, or as needed. Border Collies who work or play outdoors may need more frequent baths.
• Ear care: Weekly checks, particularly for rough-coated dogs with more ear hair.
• Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks, though active dogs on hard surfaces may wear their nails down naturally.
• Dental care: Regular brushing and dental maintenance.

Shedding: Border Collies are moderate to heavy shedders. They shed year-round and blow their undercoat seasonally. The rough coat variety sheds more visibly than the smooth coat. Regular brushing is the best defence against tumbleweeds of fur.

Professional grooming is optional — Border Collies don't require clipping or trimming. Occasional professional grooming can help manage the undercoat during heavy shedding periods. Budget $50–$80 per session if desired.

This is the most important section of this entire guide. Exercise is not optional for a Border Collie — it's essential for their wellbeing.

Recommended daily exercise:

• 90–120 minutes minimum of active exercise per day
• This must include both high-intensity physical activity AND mental stimulation
• Off-lead running in secure areas is highly beneficial

Activities Border Collies excel at:

• Agility — the sport was practically invented for Border Collies, and they dominate competition at every level
• Obedience — they consistently top obedience trial results
• Flyball — speed + ball drive = Border Collie paradise
• Herding — if you have access to herding activities, your Border Collie will thank you
• Disc dog (frisbee) — their athleticism and drive make them spectacular disc dogs
• Tracking and scent work — excellent for engaging their minds
• Canicross and bikejoring — running sports suit their endurance
• Hiking and trail running — they're excellent adventure companions

Mental stimulation is critical:

Physical exercise alone is not enough. Border Collies need their minds worked:

• Training sessions (learn new tricks, refine skills)
• Puzzle toys and food-dispensing toys
• Sniff walks (letting them explore and process scents)
• Hide and seek games
• Novel experiences and environments
• Structured problem-solving activities

What happens without adequate exercise:

An under-exercised Border Collie is not just a nuisance — it's genuinely unfair to the dog. They may develop:

• Obsessive behaviours (shadow chasing, light fixation, tail chasing)
• Destructive behaviours (chewing through walls, furniture destruction)
• Excessive barking
• Anxiety and neurotic behaviours
• Reactivity to other dogs or people
• Escapism — they will find a way out if desperate enough

Honest assessment: If you can't commit to at least 90 minutes of active engagement with your dog daily — plus mental stimulation — please consider a different breed. This isn't a criticism; it's a recognition that Border Collies deserve owners who can meet their extraordinary needs.

How much does a Border Collie cost in Australia? The answer depends on what you're looking for.

• Pet-quality puppy from a registered breeder: $2,500–$4,500
• Show-quality puppy: $4,000–$6,000+
• Working-line puppies (from proven herding parents): $1,500–$3,500
• Sport/performance lines: $3,000–$5,000

Border Collies are more affordable than many purebreds and designer breeds, partly because litter sizes tend to be larger (4–8 puppies) and the breed has a strong, established breeding community in Australia.

Factors affecting price:

• Breeder reputation and achievements (show, sport, or working titles)
• Health testing depth
• Breeding line (show, working, sport, or companion)
• Colour (merle and tricolour may be slightly higher)
• Registration type

Ongoing costs:

• Food: $60–$100/month (they're active and need quality nutrition)
• Grooming: Minimal professional grooming; $50–$80 occasionally
• Vet check-ups: $200–$400/year
• Pet insurance: $35–$60/month
• Vaccinations, parasite prevention: $300–$500/year
• Training and activities: $500–$1,500/year — this is a meaningful ongoing cost for Border Collies, as most thrive with structured activities like agility or obedience classes

How to Find a Responsible Border Collie Breeder

Finding a responsible Border Collie breeder is crucial for ensuring you bring home a healthy, well-socialised puppy. Unfortunately, the popularity of this intelligent breed has attracted unethical operators alongside genuine breeders. Knowing what to look for—and what to avoid—will help you make an informed decision.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be wary of breeders who exhibit warning signs of puppy farming or poor practices. These include refusing to let you visit their facilities, being unable to show you the puppy's parents (especially the mother), having multiple litters available year-round, or pressuring you to buy immediately. Other concerning signs include lack of health testing documentation, unwillingness to provide references, and advertising puppies as "rare" colours at inflated prices. For more guidance on identifying these warning signs, read our comprehensive guide on how to avoid scams when buying a puppy in Australia.

What Responsible Breeders Should Provide

Ethical Border Collie breeders will welcome your visit and proudly show you their dogs' living conditions. They should provide health clearances for both parents, including hip and elbow scoring, eye clearances, and genetic testing for breed-specific conditions like Collie Eye Anomaly and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Responsible breeders offer written contracts, health guarantees, and ongoing support throughout your dog's life. They also ensure proper socialisation from birth, exposing puppies to various sounds, surfaces, and experiences during the critical early weeks.

Essential Questions to Ask Breeders

Before committing to a breeder, ask to see health testing results for both parents, inquire about the puppy's socialisation experiences, and request references from previous buyers. Ask about their breeding goals, how often they breed their dogs, and what support they provide after purchase. A responsible breeder will also ask you questions about your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and plans for training and exercise—they want to ensure their puppies go to suitable homes.

Dogs Australia (ANKC) and state bodies like Dogs NSW and Dogs Victoria maintain breeder directories and can verify registration details. However, remember that registration alone doesn't guarantee ethical practices—you still need to assess each breeder individually. Our article on 5 things to consider when assessing a breeder provides additional insights into this evaluation process.

Why Choose Doggo for Your Border Collie Search

At Doggo, we've done the detective work for you. Every breeder on our platform undergoes thorough verification, including checks of their breeding practices, health testing protocols, and facilities. This means you can browse Border Collie breeders with confidence, knowing they meet our strict standards for ethical breeding practices. Our verification process saves you time and provides peace of mind that you're dealing with reputable breeders who prioritise their dogs' welfare.

Browse verified Border Collie breeders on Doggo today.

Border Collies have specific living requirements that reflect their working heritage.

Apartments: Not recommended. While it's technically possible to keep a Border Collie in an apartment if you're an extremely active owner who provides hours of daily exercise and stimulation, it's generally not a good fit. They need space, outdoor access, and the freedom to move.

Houses with yards: A house with a large, securely fenced yard is ideal. Border Collies love having space to run, play, and patrol. But even with a great yard, they still need structured exercise and activities beyond the back fence.

Rural properties: This is where Border Collies truly thrive — with space, stimulation, and ideally a job to do. If you're on acreage, a Border Collie is a natural fit.

Key considerations:

• Secure fencing is essential — tall (at least 1.8m), secure, and without gaps. Border Collies are athletic, intelligent escape artists.
• They're not outdoor-only dogs — despite their working heritage, Border Collies are deeply bonded to their people and need to be part of the household.
• Shade and water in summer — their thick coat makes heat management important.
• A "job" or purpose — even in a suburban setting, structured activities give Border Collies the sense of purpose they crave.

Who are Border Collies best suited to?

• Active individuals or couples who run, hike, cycle, or participate in dog sports
• Experienced dog owners who understand high-drive breeds
• Families with older children who can participate in the dog's activities
• Rural or semi-rural properties with space
• People involved in dog sports (agility, obedience, flyball, herding)
• Anyone willing to make their dog a central part of their daily life

Who should NOT get a Border Collie?

• Sedentary households or people who work long hours
• First-time dog owners (with rare exceptions)
• Families with very young children who can't manage herding behaviours
• Anyone looking for a low-maintenance pet
• People who want a dog that's happy being left alone

How much does a Border Collie cost in Australia?

Border Collie puppies from registered breeders in Australia typically cost between $2,500 and $4,500 for pet quality, with show and sport-quality dogs ranging higher. Working-line puppies may be available from $1,500. Prices reflect health testing, breeder reputation, and breeding purpose.

Are Border Collies good family dogs?

Border Collies can be wonderful family dogs in the right household — one that's active, experienced, and committed to meeting their significant exercise and mental stimulation needs. They're best with older children and families who include the dog in their daily activities. They're not a good match for sedentary families.

Do Border Collies shed?

Yes, Border Collies are moderate to heavy shedders. They shed year-round and blow their undercoat twice a year. Regular brushing (2–3 times weekly, daily during shedding season) helps manage loose hair. If shedding is a concern, consider a Poodle cross like a Bordoodle instead.

How much exercise does a Border Collie need?

Border Collies need a minimum of 90–120 minutes of active exercise daily, plus mental stimulation. This isn't a gentle stroll — they need running, playing, training, and brain-engaging activities. Insufficient exercise leads to behavioural problems.

Are Border Collies easy to train?

Border Collies are the easiest breed to train in terms of learning ability — they pick up new commands faster than any other breed. However, their intelligence means they also learn bad habits quickly and need consistent, skilled handling. They respond best to positive, reward-based training from a confident handler.

Can Border Collies be left alone?

Border Collies do not do well left alone for extended periods. They're social, active dogs that need engagement and companionship. Being left alone for more than 4–5 hours regularly can lead to anxiety, destructive behaviour, and distress. Dog walkers, daycare, or a canine companion can help.

What's the difference between working and show Border Collies?

Working-line Border Collies are bred for herding ability, with higher drive and intensity. Show-line Border Collies are bred for conformation and typically have calmer, more moderate temperaments. For a family companion, show or companion-bred lines are generally more suitable.

Do Border Collies get along with other dogs?

Most well-socialised Border Collies get along fine with other dogs, though some can be selective or may try to herd other dogs during play. Early and ongoing socialisation is important. They often do best with a canine companion of similar energy levels.

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