Border Collie
FCI 297
at the withers
- Mass
- 13.6–24.9 kg
The Border Collie is an agile dog with a relatively light build, an intense gaze and a long tail. Its short or moderately long coat has a dense undercoat. Black
Ground withersReference values · details in the profiles
FCI 297
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The Border Collie is an agile dog with a relatively light build, an intense gaze and a long tail. Its short or moderately long coat has a dense undercoat. Black and white is familiar, but many other colours occur. Fluid movement, quick turns and a low, crouching posture are characteristic.
It developed from sheepdogs of the border between England and Scotland. Selection focused primarily on working ability. A Border Collie directs sheep through its gaze, body position and changes in distance, responding to a handler even from far away. Sheepdog trials helped spread these skills and maintained a strong working emphasis in breeding.
Highly observant, it learns patterns quickly and may anticipate a handler’s next move. Moving objects can attract intense attention, including people, bicycles and other animals. Its focus does not always subside as soon as a game ends. Cooperation often depends on an attentive relationship and subtle signals.