Border Collies cost between $600 to $1,200. They are beautiful and intelligent dogs that are popular among first time dog owners. Border Collies mainly need good quality dog food provide for their energetic behavior, and have a low maintenance cost of less than $100 a month.
Why Are Border Collies So Expensive?
Border Collies cost between $600 to $1,200 per puppy when purchased from standard breeders.
These beauties could sell for as much as $4,500 if they come from champion bloodlines. Compared to most other breeds of dogs, this is a high price tag. So what makes border collies so expensive? Let’s find out.
High Intelligence
Border Collies are considered the most intelligent dog breed. Being an intelligent dog is a huge deal because it means they are easy to train and good companions. They are obedient, which makes them excellent pets to have.
Beautiful Aesthetic
Border Collies are a good breed of dog to consider if you want something simple but unique. Most Border Collies have a standard, medium-to-large build and long, beautiful coats. They come in various colors, but black and white coats are the most common. If you’re looking for an exciting breed that doesn’t stand out too much, Border Collies are ideal.
Great Family Pets
Border Collies are great for families. They are intelligent and easy to train. They also get along with kids and other pets. Border Collies make awesome pets for first-time dog owners too.
Generally Low Maintenance
Border Collies are low-maintenance dogs that are ideal for busy households. They don’t require a lot of grooming or health costs. However, they need a lot of exercises and mental stimulation to keep them happy.
What Health Problems Do Border Collies Have?
Border collies typically have a lifespan of 10 to 17 years.
This longevity is long for such a big dog, which shows how healthy they can be. They can live this long mainly due to their active lifestyles and generally unproblematic genetics. However, this does not mean that there are no health reasons why you shouldn’t get a Border Collie. Here are a few to consider.
Collie Eye Anomaly
Collie Eye Anomaly is a disease that affects the development of both eyes in a Border Collie. It causes poor eyesight and may eventually lead to complete blindness in the dog. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease.
However, early detection could help you better prepare the dog for its future.
Epilepsy
Border Collies are more likely to have seizures than other breeds of dogs. Seizures usually start when a dog is about six months old and can last throughout the dog’s life. However, your border collies can reduce seizures in both intensity and frequency with medication.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a condition where the elbow joint in the Collie does not form properly. This disease can affect the dog significantly because they need full limb functionality to do things like walk and play.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a rare condition that affects a lot of Border Collies. Hypothyroidism causes a low level of thyroid hormones, which affects things like energy production, metabolism, and temperature control.
How To Take Care Of Border Collies?
Border Collies are low-maintenance dogs. They need to play and explore to stay healthy and happy. But there is more to their care than just that. Here is a list of things you need to do if you want your Border Collie to be as happy as possible.
Curate A Healthy Diet For Them
Border Collies need a lot of energy, so it’s essential to give them good food that will help them stay strong, especially those high in calories and protein.
You can try Pet Plate to get a perfect meal plan for your collie’s needs. You can also feed them human food, like mangos and cooked meat that is not seasoned.
Include Supplements Into The Diet Regimen
In addition to a healthy diet, you should also take multivitamins. These extra nutrients will help with issues like shoulder dysplasia and arthritis.
Make Time For Plenty Of Exercise
Border Collies love to play more than anything else. They need at least 2 hours of exercise every day to stay happy and healthy. Some exercise suggestions are walks, puzzle games, or agility sports. If they don’t get any form of exercise, you will notice some negative changes in their personality and mood.
Get The Collie A Nice Rest Spot
Border Collies are usually very alert and do not sleep deeply. However, they need a lot of rest to recover from their busy lives. A great way to help them is to set up a comfortable spot to rest, like a covered dog crate or a cozy dog bed.
Do Border Collies Like To Cuddle? Temperament Of Border Collies
Border Collies are some pretty amazing dogs. They have excellent health and are very athletic. But that’s not all! They also have some great personality traits that you will love.
Outdoorsy
Border collies are loyal and comfortable around humans. They prefer to be outdoors, but you can give them the best of both worlds by taking them for a walk 1-2 hours daily. Doing so will also meet their exercise needs.
Alert
Border Collies were originally bred as herding and guarding dogs. They have very sharp senses, so that they can be easily scared by any unusual activity near the home. However, they are easy to calm down if you show them that you are not worried.
Vocal
Border collies bark a lot, especially when they feel like their family is in danger. The best way to stop them from barking is to train them to obey.
Friendly
Border Collies are typically confident and protective but not aggressive. They can be pretty affectionate with both the owner and strangers.
Independent
Border collies are independent and can be left alone. They can also go for walks by themselves. They are bright and know what to do in different situations. But it’s good to show them some love too.
Obedient
Border collies are very smart and easy to train. You can usually get a professional trainer for $200 to $600 per week, or do it yourself with a program like Brain Training for Dogs. This DIY dog behavioral training program is effective and easy to follow.
How Often Should You Brush Your Border Collie? Grooming Tips For A Border Collie
Border Collies need a lot of grooming. They are considered moderate to high shedders, and they shed all year round with specific seasons where they shed a lot more.
However, you don’t need to worry about it too much. Here are some essential grooming tips for a Border Collie.
Brush regularly
Border Collie shedding can be a huge problem. However, brushing their long coats to remove the hair and tangles makes all the difference. You need to do it 2-4 times every week, depending on how much hair you see on the floor.
Invest In Good Grooming Products
In addition to brushing your dog regularly, you also need the right tools. A firm grooming brush with bristles that can reach the dog’s skin is necessary for their thick coats. Having a self-cleaning grooming brush will help eliminate all the fur that collects in the brush.
Wash Occasionally
Although they have thick coats, Border Collies do not usually stink. However, they need a bath every so often. You can’t go wrong bathing them once or every other month.
Maintain Dental Hygiene
Border Collies can have dental problems, like tartar buildup and gingivitis. You need to take care of their teeth by using chew toys or dental water additives.
Related Questions
Should I Get A Male Or Female Border Collie? Both male and female Border Collies can be great pets. The choice between the two should be based on your personal preferences. Male Border Collies tend to be more emotionally needy and energetic, making them high maintenance. They are loyal to their owners almost to a fault. Female Border Collies are a bit calmer but also very affectionate.
How Much Is A Red Border Collie? Red Border Collies cost about $800 to $1,200, which is more than the regular black and white Border Collies because they are rarer. However, they are not in high demand, so you don’t need to worry about price markups.
How Much Does A Blue Merle Border Collie Cost? Blue Merle Border Collies are the most expensive type of Border Collie. They can cost up to $4,500, mainly because they are stunning and have a unique look. However, it is possible to get them for much less from adoption shelters or some breeders for as low as $600.
