Pedigree
Border Collie
Origin: United Kingdom
The Border Collie is the most intelligent dog there is, and paradoxically one of the most demanding: without daily mental and physical work, it invents obsessions. It carries a screenable drug sensitivity (MDR1). A magnificent dog for anyone with time to occupy it.
Extremely intelligent, a workaholic, it needs mental and physical tasks. The canine brain par excellence.
Heat (Morocco)
Watch the heat
First pet
Experienced owners
Availability
Market / breeders
Know this first
The smartest breed is also one of the hardest: under-stimulated, it develops neuroses. MDR1 drug sensitivity (screenable by DNA test) and epilepsy in some lines.
For you if
- A very active owner, dog sport or work
- Anyone who can stimulate it every day
Think twice if
- A first-time owner, a calm home
- A flat with no daily outlet
Care essentials
- Daily mental AND physical work
- MDR1 test before any medication
- Channelled activity (obedience, agility)
- Watch for line epilepsy
Is a Border Collie right for you?
Temperament is not everything: your space, your time, and the climate matter as much. Let us see if your life fits.
Common questions
Is it suited to a flat?
Only with an intense daily outlet (sport, work). Under-stimulated, it develops behaviour problems, whatever the home's size.
In the same family
MDR1 and line epilepsy: veterinary literature (digest).