Border Collie Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Mandatory tests include: Hip X-rays (OFA or PennHIP), Annual eye examination (CERF/OFA), CEA/CH genetic test - CRITICAL as 25% of Border Collies carry the gene. Highly recommended: MDR1 gene testing (drug sensitivity affects 5% of breed), TNS genetic test (immune disorder), NCL genetic test (neurological disease), Elbow X-rays (OFA). Working ability assessment essential for breed integrity. All breeding dogs should be at least 2 years old for accurate testing.

Yes - scientifically proven #1 in canine intelligence by Dr. Stanley Coren's research! Border Collies learn new commands in under 5 repetitions with 95% accuracy. They understand 250+ words, can learn names of objects, and demonstrate problem-solving abilities comparable to a 2.5-year-old child. This remarkable intelligence makes them perfect partners for active families who enjoy training, dog sports, and mental challenges. Their brilliance creates incredible bonds through shared learning adventures!

Significant differences exist. Working lines: stronger herding drive, less coat, more athletic build, higher energy (4+ hours daily), intense 'eye', may be unsuitable as pets without jobs. Show lines: reduced working ability but calmer temperament, fuller coat, more suitable for active families. Sport lines: balance between working drive and family compatibility. Choose breeding goals based on puppy placement - working farms need working lines, families often better with show/sport lines.

Border Collies require minimum 2-4 hours of physical and mental activity daily. Physical: running (can reach 30mph), hiking, swimming, agility. Mental: training sessions, puzzle toys, herding games, scent work. Without adequate stimulation, they develop obsessive behaviors like shadow chasing, excessive barking, or destructive habits. Perfect for marathon runners, hikers, and dog sport enthusiasts. Not suitable for apartment living unless owner extremely dedicated to daily activities.

CEA is a genetic eye condition affecting 25% of Border Collies. It causes abnormal development of the eye, potentially leading to vision problems or blindness. Simple DNA testing identifies: Normal/Normal (clear), Normal/Carrier (carrier, won't develop CEA), or Affected. Carriers can be bred to clear dogs safely. Two carriers should never be bred together (25% chance of affected puppies). Testing costs $50-75 and prevents producing blind puppies.

MDR1 mutation affects 5% of Border Collies, causing severe reactions to common medications including ivermectin (heartworm prevention), loperamide (Imodium), and certain anesthetics. Dogs with MDR1 mutation can have seizures or die from normal doses. Testing identifies: Normal/Normal (safe), Normal/Mutant (carrier, use caution), Mutant/Mutant (high risk). One-time $50-70 test provides lifetime medication safety information. All breeding Border Collies should be tested.

Border Collies are NOT recommended for apartment living unless owner can provide 4+ hours daily exercise and mental stimulation. They were bred to run 50+ miles daily herding sheep. In apartments without adequate activity, they develop: obsessive-compulsive behaviors, excessive barking, destructive chewing, neurotic habits like tail chasing. Better suited to homes with yards, farms, or extremely active urban owners committed to multiple daily activities.

Hip dysplasia affects 11% of Border Collies. Early signs: bunny hopping gait, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, decreased activity, sitting with legs to side. Advanced signs: lameness, muscle loss in rear legs, pain when touched. Prevention: breed only OFA Good/Excellent or PennHIP below 50th percentile. Maintain lean body weight, appropriate exercise during growth, joint supplements. Early detection through X-rays at 2 years allows informed breeding decisions.

Epilepsy affects 1-2% of Border Collies with strong genetic component. Idiopathic epilepsy typically appears between 6 months to 5 years. Signs: seizures, collapse, rigid limbs, loss of consciousness, drooling. Hereditary pattern suggests polygenic inheritance. Breeding recommendations: never breed affected dogs, avoid breeding siblings of affected dogs, research family history 3+ generations. Most epileptic dogs live normal lives with medication, but breeding them perpetuates the condition.

Border Collies' intense focus can become obsessive without proper outlets. Common OCD behaviors: shadow/light chasing, fly snapping, tail chasing, excessive ball fixation, car/bike chasing, repetitive barking. Causes: insufficient mental stimulation, genetics, early stress. Prevention: provide jobs (agility, herding, tricks), rotate toys, limit repetitive games, ensure varied activities. Treatment: behavior modification, increased enrichment, sometimes medication. Breeding consideration: avoid breeding dogs with obsessive tendencies as these can be inherited.