Understanding the Size of Border Collies

Lisa Bennett

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May 3, 2023
2:12 pm

Understanding the Size of Border Collies: How Big Are They Really?

Border Collies are known for their intelligence, energy, and agility. They are also one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, thanks to their loyal and affectionate nature. But when it comes to their size, there’s a lot of confusion among people. Some people think Border Collies are small, while others believe they are larger. In this blog, we will discuss the size of Border Collies and clear up any confusion surrounding their size.

The Average Size of a Border Collie

Border Collies are medium-sized dogs that typically weigh between 30-55 pounds and stand between 18-22 inches tall. Male Border Collies are usually larger than females, with an average weight of 45-55 pounds and a height of 20-22 inches. Female Border Collies, on the other hand, weigh between 30-45 pounds and stand between 18-21 inches tall.

Border Collies are a very lean breed, and their weight can vary depending on their diet and level of exercise. They have a muscular build, with a deep chest and a slender waist. Their heads are proportionate to their bodies and have a slightly rounded skull with a long, pointed snout.

Understanding the Different Types of Border Collies

While the average size of a Border Collie is 30-55 pounds, it’s important to note that there are different types of Border Collies that can vary in size. These include:

Working Border Collies

Working Border Collies are bred for their herding abilities and are usually smaller than show Border Collies. They are leaner and more agile, which allows them to move quickly and efficiently when herding livestock. Working Border Collies can weigh between 30-45 pounds and stand between 18-21 inches tall.

Show Border Collies

Show Border Collies are bred for their appearance and are usually larger than working Border Collies. They have a thicker coat and a more substantial build, which gives them a more majestic appearance. Show Border Collies can weigh between 45-55 pounds and stand between 20-22 inches tall.

Miniature Border Collies

Miniature Border Collies are not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) but are bred by some breeders. They are much smaller than the average Border Collie, weighing between 20-30 pounds and standing between 12-16 inches tall. Miniature Border Collies are not recognized as a separate breed because breeding them often leads to health issues and is discouraged by most reputable breeders.

Factors That Affect the Size of a Border Collie

The size of a Border Collie can be affected by several factors, including:

Genetics

Like all dog breeds, genetics plays a significant role in determining the size of a Border Collie. A Border Collie’s parents’ size will influence their size, and breeders will carefully select breeding pairs to ensure that their offspring fall within the breed’s size range.

Nutrition

A Border Collie’s diet can also affect their size. Feeding them a healthy and balanced diet that is appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level can help them reach their full size potential. Providing them with too many treats or an unbalanced diet can cause them to gain weight, which can affect their size and overall health.

Exercise

Exercise is essential for a Border Collie’s health and well-being. Regular exercise can help them maintain a healthy weight and build muscle, which can affect their overall size and shape. Providing them with enough exercise can help them reach their full size potential and ensure that they maintain a healthy weight throughout their life.

4. Health

A dog’s overall health can also influence their size. Dogs that are healthy and free from disease are more likely to grow and develop properly than those that are sick or suffering from a chronic condition.

In conclusion, Border Collies are high maintenance dogs that require a lot of time, attention, and care. They are very active and need daily exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. Additionally, grooming and healthcare are important aspects of caring for a Border Collie. If you are willing to invest the time and effort required to care for a Border Collie, they can make wonderful pets and companions. However, if you are unable to provide them with the care they require, you may want to consider a different breed.

Understanding the Size of Border Collies