General Appearance
The Border Collie is a well-balanced, medium-sized dog of athletic build, combining grace, power, and stamina. Its overall appearance is that of a nimble, alert, and intelligent dog with a strong herding instinct.
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Size
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Height:
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Males: 19–22 inches (48–56 cm)
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Females: 18–21 inches (46–53 cm)
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Weight:
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Males: 30–45 lbs (14–20 kg)
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Females: 27–42 lbs (12–19 kg)
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Proportion and balance are more important than size.
Head
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Skull: Moderately broad, flat between the ears.
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Stop: Moderate but definite.
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Muzzle: Tapering to the nose, approximately equal in length to the skull.
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Nose: Black (except in brown or chocolate dogs, where it may be brown); nostrils well developed.
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Eyes: Oval, medium-sized, set well apart. Usually brown; blue eyes acceptable in merles.
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Expression: Intelligent, alert, and keen.
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Ears: Medium size, set well apart, carried erect or semi-erect.
Neck, Topline, and Body
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Neck: Strong and muscular, slightly arched, widening into the shoulders.
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Topline: Level and firm.
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Body: Athletic and well-muscled; ribs well-sprung; chest deep and moderately broad.
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Loin: Deep and muscular, not tucked up.
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Croup: Slight slope; not steep.
Tail
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Set moderately low, reaching at least to the hock. Carried low when at rest and raised in excitement, but never curled over the back. Covered in a plume of hair.
Forequarters
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Shoulders: Well laid back and muscular.
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Forelegs: Straight and parallel when viewed from the front. Strong bone with moderate angulation.
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Feet: Oval-shaped, with tight, well-arched toes and strong pads.
Hindquarters
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Hindlegs: Broad, muscular thighs with well-bent stifles and hocks well let down.
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Feet: Same as forefeet.
Coat
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Type: Two types – rough and smooth.
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Rough coat: Medium to long, dense, and weather-resistant, with a soft undercoat. Feathers on legs, chest, and tail.
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Smooth coat: Short, dense, and equally weather-resistant.
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Color: All colors and combinations are acceptable (black & white, tricolor, red, blue merle, etc.) as long as white does not predominate.
Gait / Movement
Free, smooth, and tireless. Capable of sudden bursts of speed and quick turns. Movement should be economical, purposeful, and agile.
Temperament
Highly intelligent, energetic, responsive, and eager to work. The Border Collie is a natural herder with intense focus and stamina. They thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity.
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Trainability: Extremely high.
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Energy Level: Very high.
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Socialization: Needs proper socialization from an early age.
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Disposition: Loyal, affectionate, but often reserved with strangers.
Faults
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Shyness or excessive aggression.
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Poor movement or structure.
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Lack of balance or proportion.
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Predominantly white coat.
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Weak herding instinct (in working lines).
Disqualifications
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Overly timid or aggressive behavior.
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Total lack of herding instinct (for working line evaluations).
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Excessive white with lack of pigmentation.
Ideal Owner
The Border Collie is best suited for active, experienced dog owners who can provide substantial exercise, training, and mental stimulation. It excels in agility, obedience, herding trials, and active households.