Do Border Collies shed?
Do Border Collies shed?
Why we love Border Collies
Known as the nation’s favourite sheepdog, Border Collies are highly intelligent and full of life. This breed would be well suited to a family with enough space for them to run around. This could be a big garden or just a local green space where they can expend some of their boundless energy.
Originally found between the border of Scotland and England in the 1800s (hence Border Collie)
Known to be a farmer’s favourite companion
If they’re left understimulated, don’t be surprised to find them rounding other animals in the house…or even small children!
Border Collie facts
| Lifespan | 12-15 years (some live up to 17) |
| Price | £700 - £1500 |
| Size | Medium (18 - 22 inches) |
| Weight | 25 - 30kg |
| Colours | Black and white, black white and tan, blue, brown, cream, red, seal or a combination |
| Coat and grooming | Double-coated fur that needs to be brushed several times a week and groomed every 1-2 months. |
| Personality | Full of energy and affection, friendly and curious, intelligent and eager |
| Exercise frequency | 2+ hours per day |
Common health problems for Border Collies
Border Collies are known to be quite sturdy dogs, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to occasional health issues, and there are a few that the breed is more prone to. The following conditions can affect Border Collies, however, your own Collie may not experience any or all of them. This list is not exhaustive, and any concerns you have for your pet's health should always be raised with a vet.
Epilepsy
Seizures can be tricky to spot in dogs, as sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference between what may just be a shiver or a muscle tremor. Some seizures can affect the body and brain, which would look as if your dog's body is shaking while they are unaware or seemingly unconscious. However, other seizures only affect parts of the body, so they may still be alert and responsive while their body shakes.
Signs to look for:
A shaking body Muscle twitching Collapsing Jerking Stiffening |
Loss of consciousness Drooling Chomping Tongue chewing Foaming at the mouth |
What to do:
If you are concerned your Collie may have epilepsy, it can be helpful to video your dog during one of these episodes so you can show your vet. Seizures can happen for a variety of reasons, including illness, infection or an underlying condition. Your vet will be able to determine whether a seizure is a one-off symptom or whether they are caused by a condition such as epilepsy.
What does John Lewis Pet Insurance include?
Pet insurance could give you peace of mind if your Border Collie were to become unwell. John Lewis Pet Insurance offers six different Vet Fee cover levels, ranging from £2,000 - £12,000 per year.
Our Pet Insurance includes:
Annual Online Health Checks
Provided by vetfone™, one of the UK’s most trusted pet advice services, who can help you to spot any potential health issues. This is a service to complement your normal annual physical check up with your vet.
Find out more
Lifetime Cover
If your pet develops a long-term, chronic illness, there’s no limit to the length of treatment as long as there’s no break in your cover.
Learn about our Lifetime Cover
24/7 vetfone™ helpline
Around the clock access to fully trained veterinary nurses to get the advice and reassurance you need, when you need it.
Learn about the vetfone™ helpline
*For dental care up to your chosen Vet Fee limit. If your pet has a dental check every 12 months: once it has had its first check and your vet has done any necessary work, should your pet suffer from tooth decay or gum disease before the next 12-month check, or if tooth decay or gum disease are seen at the time of the next check, we pay. If your pet doesn’t have a check every 12 months, or if the work required is not done, we will only pay;
1) For teeth or gums if they are damaged in an accident,
2) If an underlying illness causes tooth decay or gum disease, or
3) To remove teeth as treatment of an illness which is not gum disease or tooth decay.
Looking for insurance for your Border Collie?
Pet insurance could give you peace of mind if your furry companion were to become unwell. John Lewis Pet Insurance offers six different Vet Fee cover levels, ranging from £2,000 - £12,000 per year.
FAQs
Border Collies are enthusiastic and full of energy which can mean they enjoy running around after children. However, this energy can make them unintentionally boisterous, so ensuring your Collie is well-trained can be helpful with smaller children in the house.
Every Border Collie is different, but the majority will reach their full size by the time they are 15 months old. Some larger Collies may continue to grow until they reach 18 months.
This article is for promotion or information purposes only. You must not rely on it for advice.
Pet breed guides
Pet Insurance through John Lewis is subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply.
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