Connect with responsible Border Collie breeders and find the ideal breeding partner for the world's smartest dog breed
Understanding your Border Collie's exceptional intelligence and working drive is essential for responsible breeding
Male: 30-45 lbs
Female: 27-42 lbs
Male: 19-22 inches
Female: 18-21 inches
12-15 years
With proper care
Intelligent, Energetic
World's smartest breed
Ranked #1 in canine intelligence. Can learn new commands in under 5 repetitions. Breeding should maintain problem-solving ability and trainability.
Strong eye and natural herding ability. May attempt to herd children, other pets. Select breeding stock with appropriate drive levels for intended homes.
Need 2+ hours of physical and mental exercise daily. Under-exercised Border Collies develop behavioral problems. Screen homes carefully.
Significant differences exist. Working lines have stronger drive and less coat. Show lines may lack working ability. Consider your breeding goals.
Comprehensive health testing is mandatory to maintain this remarkable breed's health and abilities
Genetic testing mandatory. Up to 25% of Border Collies are affected. Test all breeding dogs to avoid producing blind puppies.
OFA or PennHIP testing required. Both parents should have good or excellent ratings for this athletic breed.
No genetic test available. Common in the breed. Never breed dogs with seizure history or affected relatives.
Annual CERF eye examinations required. Genetic testing available for some forms.
Genetic testing recommended. Affects drug sensitivity including ivermectin. Common in herding breeds.
More common in fast-growing puppies. Proper nutrition and controlled exercise essential.
Genetic testing available. Fatal immune disorder. Both parents must be tested.
Genetic testing available. Progressive neurological disease. Test all breeding stock.
CEA is extremely common in Border Collies, affecting up to 25% of the breed. This can range from minor vision impairment to complete blindness. All breeding dogs MUST be genetically tested for CEA/CH. Never breed two affected dogs together. Carrier to clear breedings are acceptable but require careful puppy screening. Early eye exams (6-8 weeks) can also detect CEA before changes become masked.
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible Border Collie breeding
Male Border Collies
2 to 8 years
Female Border Collies
2 to 7 years
Mental maturity is as important as physical maturity in Border Collies. Wait until at least 2 years to assess working ability and temperament.
Border Collies require extensive genetic testing due to several breed-specific conditions. Working ability should also be evaluated.
Females: No more than once per year, maximum 4 litters lifetime
Skip at least one heat cycle between litters
Focus on quality over quantity. The breed's intelligence and working ability must be preserved
Join thousands of responsible pet owners who've found quality breeding partners on Petmeetly.
Get Started NowReal stories from dog owners who found perfect breeding matches on Petmeetly
Expert advice and tips for Border Collie breeding
Get a step-by-step guide to ethical dog breeding. Learn about choosing breeding pairs, caring for puppies, and ensuring responsible practices for a successful outcome.
Welcome to Petmeetly, your trusted platform for connecting with responsible pet breeders.
