The red Border Collie is a breed of herding dog that is well-known for its intelligence, energy, and versatility. These dogs have a distinctive red or copper-colored coat and are highly trainable, making them excellent working dogs. Whether herding livestock, competing in agility trials, or simply being a loving companion, the red Border Collie is a dog that thrives on mental and physical stimulation.
Basic Characteristics
A Red Border Collie is a smart and diligent dog that requires a lot of mental and physical stimulation. Owners who do not have the energy, resources, or time to keep it occupied may find it too demanding. Once the work is done, they are affectionate and, love cuddling. These herding dogs are athletic and agile.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Weight | Male: up to 30 to 45 lbs. Female: up to 30 to 42 lbs. |
| Height | Male: at least 22 in. Female: at least 20 in. |
| Coat Type | Double coat, straight |
| Exercise | At least 40 minutes daily |
History
The American Kennel Club (AKC) first recorded the red Border Collie in the early 1990s. This color is the result of a recessive gene, making it challenging to breed them in significant numbers. Such dog must inherit two copies of the gene to have a red coat, and they cannot produce any other coat colors.
As a result, red Border Collies are a relatively rare breed, but their popularity has increased over time. They are sometimes referred to as the “Foxy Collie.”
Appearance of Red Border Collie
Red Border Collies can come in varying shades of red, from dark to light almost cream-colored. In fact, red is one of the most recognized colors by Kennel Clubs. In addition to black and white, there are other rare Border Collie colors. Aside from coming with different colors, Border Collies can also come in different sizes depending on their gender, male Collies being larger the female Collies.
Size, Height, Weight
Border Collies are a breed of dog with a weight range of 30 to 55 pounds, with males generally weighing more than females. According to the AKC breed standards, male Border Collies can stand between 19 to 22 inches tall and females around 18 to 21 inches tall.
Personality and Temperament
Border Collies are witty and energetic dogs with a strong herding instinct. They are best suited for a farm or ranch setting where they have ample space to run and work. They can also make great family pets for active owners who are willing to devote time and energy to their exercise and training.
Border Collies are known for their loyalty, affection, and friendly nature, making them great family pets. They have a gentle demeanor, a natural love for children, and are always eager to meet new people. The red Border Collie, specifically, is protective of its owners and will defend them fiercely.
Intelligence of Red Border Collie
Border Collies are highly receptive to training and are among the most intelligent breeds. They have an exceptional ability to learn and are eager to please their human, making new tasks and training easy for them. This makes them an ideal choice for those who want to participate in obedience, agility, or herding trials.
Energy
If you are looking for a dog that will motivate you to be active and bring joy and excitement to your life, this dog is the perfect breed for you. However, you must be prepared to keep them engaged and entertained with a variety of games and activities. They literally have boundless energy, endurance, and a strong work drive, which makes them exceptional herding dogs. Family and Kids
The red Border Collie is a highly loyal breed and forms strong bonds with its family. They are affectionate and respond well to the love and care provided by their guardians.
This breed is well-suited for families with children. They can keep up with the high energy levels of children as they are obedient and energetic. This makes them a great playmate for active kids.
Other Animals
This dog is a social and friendly breed that enjoys interacting with other animals. They have a gentle and affectionate nature, making them compatible with other dogs and cats.
However, if you have small pets such as hamsters or gerbils, the red Border Collie may see them as prey due to their innate herding instincts. To prevent any mishaps, it is recommended to introduce your pup to smaller animals while they are on a leash, especially during their growth stages.
Strangers
Border Collies are friendly towards people they don’t know, provided they receive proper training. Despite being lively and easily overstimulated, they tend to be well-behaved. It’s recommended to avoid direct contact with these dogs unless their owner gives permission.
Does Red Border Collie Bark a Lot?
Whether it is a red Border Collie or the traditional colored one, this breed is known to bark frequently, as they enjoy in making their presence known. They will bark for various reasons, including hunger, excitement, boredom, playfulness, loneliness, and the desire for their owner’s attention.
Is Red Border Collie Good For Newbie Dog Owners?
Border Collies are known for their exceptional intelligence, making them fast learners. Due to their willingness to please, training a Border Collie can be relatively straightforward. However, their high level of energy and intelligence makes them a more challenging breed for inexperienced dog owners.
Training & Exercise of Red Border Collie
Red Border Collies are known for their intelligence and ability to learn quickly. When considering whether a red Border Collie, is a suitable pet for a newbie owner, it is important to think about their exercise requirements.
A healthy adult Border Collie requires at least 90 minutes of exercise per day, which can vary depending on factors like
- Age
- Health
- Physical fitness
Red Border Collies that are used for work or participate in canine sports typically receive more exercise than those kept as pets, and puppies and senior dogs require less physical activity. Therefore, a red Border Collie may be a good pet for a newbie owner who is able to provide the necessary exercise and attention, while it may not be a good choice for someone who is unable to meet their needs.
Taking Care & Maintenance of Red Border Collie
Border Collies require monthly baths but may need more frequent washing if they engage in outdoor activities that get them dirty. Good dental care is a must for the breed, and cleaning their teeth with a toothbrush and vet-recommended toothpaste at least once a week is highly suggested.
Cleaning their ears should be done after baths or swims, without using cotton swabs, to avoid injury. Regular nail trimming, around once a month, is also necessary for the breed.
Health of Red Border Collie
The Border Collie breed is generally healthy. However, there are a few minor health issues that Collies may encounter, such as eye problems or ear infections. They have short fur that can make them more prone to skin irritations, so it’s vital to observe for symptoms like itching, redness, or rashes.
Diet & Nutrition of Red Border Collie
The diet of a red Border Collie plays a crucial role in its health and lifespan. A balanced and nutritious diet can prevent various chronic diseases, illnesses and more. As active dogs, red Border Collies require a diet that provides them with energy throughout the day. A high-quality dry dog food for working dogs is a suitable option.
To boost their protein and nutrient intake, wet food or cooked meat can also be added to their diet. Avoid feeding them table scraps or human food, as it can cause obesity and other health issues. Stick to their regular dog food and limit healthy treats occasionally.
Life Span
Border Collies have a relatively long lifespan, an average of 12 to 15 years. While they are typically a healthy dog, some health issues may impact their lifespan. To ensure the health of your Collie, it’s important to obtain it from a reputable breeder and be aware of any foreseeable genetic concerns. However, even with proper care, dogs can still become ill unexpectedly, so it’s always important to be ready.
Health Issues
According to the American Border Collie Association, the Border Collie breed has several genetic health issues and it is recommended that potential owners thoroughly research the breed before making a final decision.
Some of these health problems include
;
- Collie Eye Anomaly is an inherited disorder that affects the choroid and occurs in puppies up to two years old.
- Hip and Elbow dysplasia are genetic conditions that can impact Border Collies of any age and cause pain, stiffness, and several other symptoms.
- Osteochondritis Dissecans is a joint disease where the cartilage in the Border Collie’s joints begins to deteriorate and cause instability and pain.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a degenerative eye condition that slowly reduces vision and leads to blindness.
- Epilepsy is a common inherited condition in this breed that causes seizures.
Grooming of Red Border Collie
The grooming requirements for Collies are not very demanding. They tend to shed, particularly in spring and fall, but not as much as some other breeds. Regular brushing, a couple of times a week, should help control the shedding and maintain their coat’s appearance.
Some Collies are known to be mischievous and may need to be bathed occasionally. Make sure to use a dog-friendly shampoo recommended by your veterinarian.
Does Red Border Collie Shed A Lot?
The Border Collie breed has a two-layered coat, with a longer, smoother and feathery outer layer and a shorter, coarser inner layer.
They have a moderate level of shedding, with increased shedding twice a year during spring and fall. During these times, they lose a lot of hair, so it is necessary to brush them daily.
During the rest of the year, brushing them two to three times a week should be sufficient to control shedding.
Male Vs Female
There isn’t a significant size difference between male and female Border Collies, with males slightly larger but it’s not much of a difference. If you prefer a smaller dog, it might be best to adopt a female, although there is no guarantee as some females can grow to be large.
Behavior-wise, males are more likely to exhibit behaviors related to its marking territory, while these behaviors are typically not seen in females.
Cost of Red Border Collie
Acquiring a Border Collie from a reputable breeder can be more costly initially, but it may actually save you money in the long term. By obtaining the Border Collie from a recognized breeder, there is a lower chance of the dog developing genetic health problems. Thus, reducing the amount you will have to spend on veterinary care.
Puppies
The cost of a Border Collie puppy from a reputable breeder is anywhere from $700 to $1,500. This amount can go as high as $3,500 for a top-quality puppy. The price varies based on factors such as the dog’s gender, pedigree, age, and the location of the breeder.
Of course, there are other expenses to be considered similar to food and treats, bowls, dog bed, dog crate, collars, leashes, dog toys, grooming supplies, vaccines, vet visit, and so forth. The total initial cost is estimated to be between $600 to $2,300.
Breeders and Shelters
A shelter can provide you with a healthy, vaccinated, microchipped, neutered, and up-to-date dog. Although their history and pedigree may be unknown, they are a better choice compared to a puppy mill.
Note that most shelters likely have adult dogs instead of puppies. If you’re seeking a puppy, a breeder is a more suitable option. However, if age and pedigree don’t matter to you, adopting from a shelter is a great choice. These dogs are just as intelligent, trainable, and perfect for high-energy families. They will enjoy an active lifestyle and be your loyal companion during outdoor adventures.
Conclusion: Is Red Border Collie Right For You?
A red Border Collie is an energetic and highly intelligent breed, making them a great fit for families with an active lifestyle. However, owning a Border Collie requires a significant time commitment, as they require regular exercise, training, and attention.
Before getting a Border Collie, it is important to consider your prior experience with dogs and whether you have the time and resources to provide them with the care they need. With proper training and care, a red Border Collie can be a loyal and affectionate companion for many years to come.
