Border Collie Q&A: Is the Smartest Dog in the World Right for You?
The Border Collie is recognized as the most intelligent dog breed in the world. However, this intelligence comes with high training and exercise demands, making it unsuitable for every owner. 🐾
A Border Collie is not just a dog that follows commands well—it’s a breed that can think independently and solve problems. But if this intelligence is not guided with proper training and mental stimulation, it can lead to undesirable behaviors.
First-time dog owners often ask questions like:
“Is a Border Collie easy to train?”
“Can I keep one in an apartment?”
“Do they require constant attention?”
This post will answer 10 of the most frequently asked questions (Q&A) about Border Collies, helping you decide if this brilliant yet demanding breed is the right fit for you! 🐕💙

1️⃣ Is the Border Collie Really the Smartest Dog in the World?
✔ Yes! The Border Collie ranks #1 in canine intelligence according to the 1994 research by Dr. Stanley Coren.
✔ They have an IQ equivalent to a 3- to 4-year-old child and can learn new commands with fewer than five repetitions.
✔ Some Border Collies can even understand over 1,000 words, with one dog earning a Guinness World Record for vocabulary.
💡 But high intelligence doesn’t mean they are easy to raise! Without proper training, they can develop stubborn or destructive behaviors.
2️⃣ Can a Border Collie Live Indoors?
✔ Yes, but only if you provide sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.
✔ A Border Collie needs at least 2 hours of exercise and play per day.
✔ If kept indoors, they require activities like frisbee, agility training, and nose work to stay mentally and physically engaged.
✔ Without enough stimulation, they may develop excessive barking, chewing, or herding behavior indoors.
💡 “Keeping a Border Collie indoors without enough exercise is NOT recommended.”
3️⃣ Is a Border Collie Suitable for First-Time Dog Owners?
✔ No, Border Collies are not ideal for beginners.
✔ They are high-energy, highly intelligent, and require constant mental engagement.
✔ If they become bored, they may develop obsessive behaviors, such as compulsive spinning or herding small children or pets.
✔ Unlike other breeds, they dislike repetitive training and need variety to stay engaged.
💡 “If you can’t commit to daily training and enrichment, a Border Collie may not be the right choice for you.”
4️⃣ What is the Personality of a Border Collie?
✔ Border Collies are energetic, alert, and highly trainable.
✔ They are loyal to their owners but also independent thinkers.
✔ Due to their herding instincts, they may chase moving objects like bicycles, cars, or children.
✔ Socialization is essential, as some may be wary of strangers.
💡 “Without proper socialization, a Border Collie may become overly reactive or anxious.”
5️⃣ Do Border Collies Shed a Lot?
✔ Yes, Border Collies have a thick double coat and shed year-round.
✔ Shedding becomes even heavier during seasonal coat changes (spring and fall).
✔ Regular brushing 3–4 times per week helps reduce shedding and prevent matting.
✔ If kept indoors, expect to clean up a lot of fur.
💡 “If you have pet allergies, a Border Collie may not be the best choice.”
6️⃣ Do Border Collies Bark a Lot?
✔ Border Collies are naturally alert and responsive, meaning they may bark frequently.
✔ Excessive barking can be caused by boredom, lack of exercise, or stress.
✔ Proper training and mental stimulation can help control excessive barking.
💡 “Without proper training, their alertness can turn into nuisance barking.”
7️⃣ What Health Issues Are Common in Border Collies?
✔ Border Collies are generally healthy but are prone to certain genetic conditions:
1️⃣ Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) → Can lead to vision impairment or blindness.
2️⃣ Hip Dysplasia → A common joint disorder in active dogs.
3️⃣ Epilepsy → Some Border Collies may suffer from seizures.
💡 “When adopting a Border Collie, check the health history of the parents to avoid genetic diseases.”
8️⃣ How Much Exercise Does a Border Collie Need Daily?
✔ At least 2 hours per day!
✔ They need more than just walks—they thrive with frisbee, agility training, and problem-solving activities.
✔ Lack of exercise can lead to anxiety, hyperactivity, and destructive behaviors.
💡 “If you can’t commit to daily physical and mental stimulation, this breed may not be suitable for you.”
9️⃣ How Much Does a Border Collie Cost?
✔ $500–$1,500 USD on average, depending on pedigree, coat color, and health.
✔ Well-bred Border Collies from reputable breeders tend to be more expensive.
✔ Beware of cheap, poorly bred puppies, as they may have health or temperament issues.
💡 “Avoid impulsive purchases—research the breeder’s background and the puppy’s health before buying.”
🔟 Who is a Border Collie Best Suited For?
✔ Active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
✔ Owners committed to daily training and mental engagement.
✔ People who enjoy interactive play, agility sports, and challenges.
💡 “A Border Collie isn’t just a pet—it’s a companion that requires lifelong dedication and engagement!” 🐶💙
📚 References
1️⃣ American Kennel Club (AKC) – akc.org
2️⃣ The Spruce Pets – thesprucepets.com
3️⃣ PetMD – petmd.com