Pet Border Collie breed information

Border Collie personality

Intelligent and enthusiastic, Border Collies are hard-working and well-suited to outdoorsy and active families. Border Collies are known for their loyal, sensitive and determined personality. Though each dog's coat will vary, classic markings for this breed include a black body with a blaze of white across his face and chest, and white socks.

This highly intelligent dog is born with an instinct to work and responds extremely well to training, which is why it is often used as a farm dog.

Collies have the reputation of being workaholics. They are not interested in lying around the house all day with nothing to do. This dog is a suitable companion to those who regularly spend time indulging in outdoor activities like hiking or running, and lead a physically active lifestyle.

The most famous Border Collie was Shep, the long-term companion to John Noakes from BBC's Blue Peter in the 1970s. Border Collies have also appeared on the silver screen in Academy Award winning film, Babe.

If you own a Border Collie or you're welcoming one to your family, consider our Defaqto 5 star rated Premier pet insurance to give your dog the best possible cover.

Common health problems and illness

Joint problems

Arthritis is common in Border Collies due to their active nature. Hip dysplasia is also seen in a large number of these dogs. This condition is caused by genetic problems in the hip, leading to damage in the muscle and tissue around the joint. Look out for any changes in your dog's mobility, and if persistent, speak to your vet who will advise on the best treatment depending on your dog's circumstances.

Epilepsy

This hereditary condition may affect some Border Collies, usually in dogs between the ages of 1 and 4. Epilepsy is caused by over-activity in the brain, resulting in twitching, seizures and fits. The effects of epilepsy can vary between animals and the condition can be controlled through treatment and medication but it is often a lifelong condition.

Border Collie

Size: Medium

Life span: 12-15 years

Coat: coat requires minimal upkeep – he should be bathed once every four months.

Exercise: 2 or more hours a day for adult dogs

Choosing the right insurance for your pet...

Essential policy

Cover most suited for short-term illnesses and injuries.
This is a time-limited policy we’ll pay the cost of treatment for each condition for a maximum of 12 months from the first date of treatment up to £5,000
Our claim payments will stop at 12 months or once you have reached £5,000 whichever is reached first

This cover is perfect for when Tigger the Siamese cat has a cut paw. Once this has healed, she can continue to chase squirrels up trees.

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Premier policy

Cover for long-term illness and injuries
We'll pay the cost of all treatments covered up to £10,000 in total in a policy year
There isn't a time limit for claims, payments can continue for as long as you have a policy with us up to £10,000 each year

This cover is perfect for when Eddie the Beagle is diagnosed with diabetes and may need a lot of extra vet care for the rest of his life

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