Short Haired Border Collie: Info, Temperament, History, Care 2024

What is a Short Haired Border Collie?

The Short Haired Border Collie is a type of the well-known Border Collie breed. Its short, smooth coat stands out. Border Collies earn their reputation for intelligence, agility, and diligence. They are often seen as the smartest dog breed. The short-haired type is popular among those who want a dog with lower grooming needs. They also want a dog with the energetic and hardworking traits of the breed.

Short Haired Border Collies are excellent herding dogs, originally bred to work livestock. They are easy to train. They excel in many dog sports. These include agility, obedience, and flyball. They are quick learners because they are smart. But, they need lots of mental and physical activity to stay happy and healthy. They thrive in places where they have a job. This could be herding sheep or doing dog sports.

These dogs are also known for their strong bond with their owners. They are loyal, affectionate, and highly attentive to their human companions. While they can be great family pets, they require an active lifestyle and a lot of engagement. Owners need to be ready to invest time in training. They also need to provide activities that challenge minds and bodies.

Quick facts

Country of Origin: Great Britain
Height: 18–22 inches
Weight: 27–45 pounds
Coat: Two varieties—moderately long double coat is close, dense, weather resistant, with coarse, straight or wavy, moderately long outer coat and soft, short, dense undercoat; smooth double coat, short and coarser than rough variety
Colors: All colors, combinations, markings
Registries (with Group): AKC (Herding); UKC (Herding)

History of Short Haired Border Collie

The Short Haired Border Collie has a history. The Australian Shepherd breed’s history intertwines with the broader Border Collie breed. Border Collies originated from the border between England and Scotland. Mainly for herding sheep, breeders raised them. The breed developed its smarts and agility from generations of selective breeding. Breeders aimed to improve their herding abilities. The short-haired variant is a natural result of this breeding process. Shorter coats can be better in some working conditions.

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The name “Border Collie” was first used in the late 19th century. But, the breed has been around for much longer. People valued early Border Collies for their work abilities, not their appearance. This led to a mix of coat types, including short and long hair. The short-haired Border Collie became valued for its low maintenance. It’s also practical in various weather.

The breed gained international recognition and popularity in the 20th century. This was especially as people learned of their exceptional smarts and trainability. Today, we celebrate Short Haired Border Collies. They are working dogs, but also compete in sports and are loving family pets. They are popular. But, they still have strong working instincts. They need an environment where they can use their energy and skills.

Appearance of Short Haired Border Collie

The Short Haired Border Collie is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive athletic build. They have a lean, muscular body that reflects their agility and endurance. Their coat is short and smooth, which makes grooming easier compared to their long-haired counterparts. The short coat can be many colors. These include black and white, red and white, tricolor, and merle.

Their head is wide with a robust, well-outlined muzzle. The eyes of a Short Haired Border Collie are often called expressive and intelligent. They are usually brown, but can also be blue, especially in merle-coated dogs. Their ears are medium-sized. They can be erect or semi-erect. This adds to their alert and keen appearance. The overall look of a Short Haired Border Collie is one of alertness and readiness to spring into action.

The dog carries its long and bushy tail low when resting but raises it when excited or working. Despite their short coat, these dogs are well-protected against the elements. But, they may need extra protection in very cold weather. They look good. But, they are also functional. They designed themselves to support their high-energy lifestyle and working capabilities.

Average Age, Weight & Size

Short Haired Border Collies are medium-sized dogs. They typically weigh 30 to 55 pounds. Males are generally larger than females. They stand about 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. This size makes them agile and fast, perfect for their roles in herding and dog sports. They are relatively small. But, they have a powerful and athletic build. This enables them to complete tasks with speed and precision.

Short Haired Border Collies live 12 to 15 years on average. This is long for a dog their size. With proper care, regular vet check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, some may live even longer. They are long-lived due to their robust health and vitality. But, they can be prone to certain genetic health issues. Potential owners should be aware of this.

Their size and weight make them versatile for various activities and environments. They are not too large for a home. But, they are strong and tough enough for hard physical activity. Their size also makes them easy to transport. This is true for travel or for various dog sports and activities.

Cost and Price

The cost of a Short Haired Border Collie can vary a lot. It depends on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s lineage, and if the dog is for show, work, or as a pet. On average, you can expect to pay between $800 to $2,500 for a Short Haired Border Collie puppy. Dogs from champion bloodlines or with exceptional working ability can cost even more.

It’s important to buy from a good breeder. They should prioritize health, temperament, and proper breeding. A good breeder will do health screenings for common genetic issues. They will also make sure their puppies are well-socialized. This investment can save future costs. Certain issues stem from health problems or behavioral flaws in breeding.

Also to the price, buyers should consider the ongoing costs of owning a Short Haired Border Collie. The costs include food and vet care. They also include grooming supplies, training, and dog sports or activities. The initial cost can be high. But, these smart and loyal dogs provide lifelong companionship and joy. So, they are a valuable addition to any household.

Temperament of Short Haired Border Collie

Border Collies with short hair possess renowned intelligence and boundless vitality. They are incredibly trainable and excel in obedience and agility tasks. These dogs are smart. They are also very motivated to work. This makes them great herding dogs and competitive athletes in dog sports. Their eagerness to learn and please their owners is one of their most endearing traits.

These dogs are also known for their loyalty and strong bond with their families. They thrive on interacting with humans and enjoy participating in family activities. While they can be very affectionate, they are also highly alert and can make excellent watchdogs. Their herding instinct means they may try to herd other animals or kids. Training and socialization can help manage this.

Despite their many positive traits, Short Haired Border Collies are not the best choice for every household. They require a lot of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Owners need to commit to providing exercise, training, and activities. These must challenge their minds often. Without adequate stimulation, these intelligent dogs can become anxious or develop behavioral issues. However, for active people or families who can meet their needs, Short Haired Border Collies are wonderful and loyal companions.

Health and Care

The health and care of a Short Haired Border Collie require attentive management. This is due to their active lifestyle and possible genetic health issues. This breed has common health concerns. They include hip dysplasia. This is when the hip joint doesn’t fit well into the hip socket. It causes pain and mobility problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this condition. It’s important for owners to monitor their dog’s activity levels and consult a vet if any signs of discomfort or limping occur.

Eye problems are common in Border Collies. They include conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and collie eye anomaly (CEA). These conditions can lead to vision loss if not properly managed. Veterinarians can spot these issues early with regular eye exams. They can then give the right treatment or management. Genetic testing before breeding can also help reduce the incidence of these conditions in future generations.

Maintaining the health of a Short Haired Border Collie also involves a balanced diet and regular exercise. These dogs have lots of energy. They need enough exercise to stay healthy and happy. They will tailor a nutritious diet to their needs. Regular grooming and dental care will help keep them in top condition. Owners should also watch for preventive care. This care includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health screenings. They ensure a dog’s well-being.

Living Needs

• Indoor Living: Prefers to live indoors with their family, as they thrive on companionship and interaction.
• Exercise Requirements: High exercise needs; requires daily vigorous exercise such as running, fetching, and mental stimulation like obedience training or puzzle games.
• Climate Sensitivity: Generally adaptable to various climates but may need protection from extreme heat or cold due to their moderate coat.
• Grooming: Minimal grooming requirements; occasional brushing to remove loose hair and dirt is sufficient.
• Nutrition: Dogs need a balanced diet for active dogs. Watch food intake to prevent obesity.
• Socialization: Social animals enjoy regular interaction with people and other pets. This prevents boredom and behavioral issues.
• Training: Possesses a strong capacity for learning; thrives under reward-based instruction.
• Health Care: You should have regular vet check-ups. They are to check health and address breed-specific issues. These include hip dysplasia and eye conditions.
• Safety: Use secure fencing and supervision during outdoor activities. This prevents wandering due to their herding instincts.

Habits of short-haired Border Collie:

• Here are some common habits of a short-haired Border Collie:
• High Energy: They have a reputation for their boundless energy and enthusiasm. They need lots of physical and mental stimulation.
• Herding Instincts: They often show herding behaviors. They may circle or nip, especially with children or other animals.
• Intelligent: Highly intelligent and quick learners, often excelling in obedience training and interactive games.
• Playful: Enjoy playtime with toys and interactive activities, which help channel their energy.
• Focused: Have a strong focus and concentration, making them adept at tasks that require mental engagement.
• Routine-oriented: Thrive on routines and may exhibit predictable habits throughout the day.
• Affectionate: Form strong bonds with their family members and enjoy affectionate interactions.
• Vocal: Can be vocal, using barks or whines to communicate needs or excitement.
• Problem Solvers: Known for their problem-solving abilities, often finding creative solutions to challenges.
• Alert: Naturally alert and observant, making them good watchdogs.

Food and Feeding

Feeding a short-haired Border Collie requires attention. They are energetic and have specific nutritional needs. These dogs thrive on a balanced diet. It supports their high activity and health. Manufacturers make quality dog food for active breeds. It can be commercial or homemade under veterinary guidance. It should have enough protein, fat, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. You must check portion sizes. You should adjust them based on age, weight, activity level, and metabolism. This prevents overfeeding, which can cause obesity.

Short-haired Border Collies typically do well with two meals a day. Spacing them out helps maintain energy levels and assist with digestion. It’s essential to provide access to fresh water at all times. Some owners choose to use treats in training. But, they must use them in moderation to prevent weight gain. Regular vet check-ups can assess their food needs. They also ensure they keep a healthy weight. Consult a vet about specific diets and any breed-specific issues, such as sensitivities or allergies. This will help tailor a diet that supports their active life and health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the short-haired Border Collie is a remarkable breed. It’s known for its smarts, agility, and endless energy. These dogs thrive in places with lots of physical and mental activity. They make great companions for active people or families. They also learn quickly. This makes them versatile in many tasks. They can do tasks from obedience competitions to outdoor activities like agility courses or hiking.

They should expect to give these dogs consistent training. Short Haired Border Collie also need regular exercise and mental challenges. These things keep the dogs happy and fulfilled. With care and attention to their needs, they can live fulfilling lives. Their lives span about 12 to 15 years on average. Many households love them as members. This is because of their loyalty, affection, and impressive abilities. They are always ready for adventure and companionship.