Border collies are medium-sized dogs. Males stand as tall as 22 inches and weigh up to about 45 pounds (20 kilograms). Females stand as tall as 21 inches and weigh up to about 42 pounds (19 kilograms).

A bright, clever breed, the border collie is best suited for country living. If confined without activity, this breed will quickly become unhappy and destructive. Border collies are extremely energetic dogs and must have the opportunity to get lots of exercise. They love to run.

This breed, which has a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, is prone to minor health problems such as seizures, progressive retinal atrophy, osteochondritis dissecans, lens luxation, hypothyroidism, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and Collie eye anomaly (CEA), and major ailments like canine hip dysplasia (CHD). The Border Collie may also occasionally suffer from compulsive behavior, cerebellar abiotrophy, and ceroid lipofuscinosis. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may run hip, DNA, CEA, and eye exams on this breed of dog.