| Height | 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 30-55 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Energetic / Affectionate / Smart [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | England/Scotland [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 26 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
This high-drive, athletic breed is extremely energetic and requires daily exercise beyond just a walk around the block or a quick romp in the yard. They thrive when they have a job to do and space to run. A Border Collie who doesn't work must be provided with vigorous exercise every day. [1]
Grooming
There are two types of coat in the breed. The rough coat is medium-length and feathered, while the smooth coat is shorter and coarser. Both are dense, weather-resistant double coats. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Border Collie is generally a very hardy and healthy breed, and a responsible breeder will screen breeding stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, progressive renal atrophy, deafness, epilepsy, collie eye anomaly, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, and trapped neutrophil syndrome. A BC's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed regularly. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Border Collie in 1995. [1]
- It ranked No. 26 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 38 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “BC.” [1]
- The AKC lists England/Scotland as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Border Collies live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Border Collie get?
AKC breed information lists height 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female) and weight 30-55 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Border Collie?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Border Collie, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.