The Border Collie is certainly the most widespread breed of its family. Developed alongside the border between England and Scotland for herding, this dog was usually used to safeguard and guide sheep. Many specialists state that this just might be the smartest breed out there, as these dogs are also great athletes and enthusiast and successful show dogs. They are recognized by virtually all Kennel Clubs in the world.
The males weigh somewhere around 38 pounds, while the females weigh around 35 pounds. As for height, both males and females are somewhere around 20 inches. Their life span is between 10 and 18 years, having an average life expectancy of 12 years.
Almost anyone knows the general appearance of the Border Collie, as this breed is becoming one of the main attractions for pet owners these days. They have double coats that vary in color and appearance. However, the black and white variation is one of the most common, alongside the black tri-color (black + tan + white) and the white tri-color (red + tan+ white). There are also dogs of this breed that have a mono-colored coat. Their eye color also varies and it is not very uncommon to see that one of them has eyes of different colors.
The Border Collie is a highly energetic dog, which implies that he will need a lot of action, both physical and mental. If you are able to offer a dog enough time and energy to play with daily, this breed might be what you are looking for. On the other hand, if the household in which this dog lives is not able to offer him proper care and stimulation, it might act out (to say the least). This is why they are famous for chewing furniture and digging holes just for the sake of it, and this is why, each year, a lot of Collies end up abandoned or in dog pounds. Also, because their herding instincts are powerful, they might not do well in households with other dogs, cats or small children.
The Border Collie is a quite high maintenance dog and there are a few reported common health problems. Collie eye anomaly (also known as CEA), epilepsy and hip dysplasia are the three most important genetic diseases that this breed shows at this time. Fortunately, CEA does not affect them to a serious extent and, furthermore, there are now genetic tests that enable breeders to phase it out in time. NCL Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis is a very serious disease that has been detected in this breed. Even if it is rare, it affects the animal greatly and there is no known cure, with many of the affected dogs dying before reaching the age of two. Also, TNS - Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome is a serious hereditary disease that affects the immune systems of puppies, which is also lethal.
Leaving aside these health issues, some of which are quite rare, the Border Collie is still one of the most popular dogs out there, as it is both extremely intelligent and a very good athlete.
