--- title: "Border Collie pet insurance" id: "4845" type: "page" slug: "border-collie" published_at: "2026-07-03T09:03:34+00:00" modified_at: "2026-07-03T12:49:05+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/dog-insurance/border-collie/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/dog-insurance/border-collie.md" excerpt: "Border Collie pet insurance at a glance Border Collies are intelligent, energetic dogs that can be prone to hereditary conditions like epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and eye disease. Explore their health risks, care needs, and how RSPCA Pet Insurance may help..." --- The following information is general advice only. Every Border Collie is unique, so it’s important to tailor activities and interactions to suit your Collie’s individual personality, preferences, and needs. # Border Collie pet insurance Intelligent, energetic, and devoted to their people, Border Collies love being by your side. With customisable cover for accidents and illnesses from RSPCA Pet Insurance, you can be there for them too when they need you most. [Get a quote](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) ## Border Collie pet insurance at a glance Border Collies are **intelligent, energetic** dogs that can be **prone to hereditary conditions like epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and eye disease.** Explore their health risks, care needs, and how **RSPCA Pet Insurance may help cover eligible accidents, illnesses, and ongoing treatment.** ## Quick facts Lifespan 12 – 15 years Adult weight 14 – 20kg Intelligence Exceptional Energy level Very high ## About Border Collies Border Collies are highly intelligent medium-sized dogs with a **distinctive athletic build and expressive, alert nature.** Bred for herding livestock across rugged terrain, they’re generally energetic and thrive when given both physical activity and mental stimulation. Known for their remarkable trainability and problem-solving ability, Border Collies are often regarded as the **world’s smartest dog breed.** By providing them with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation and opportunities to learn, you can help your Border Collie thrive and enjoy a happy, fulfilling life. ### Temperament #### Temperament **Highly intelligent, loyal, and intensely people-focused.** Border Collies form deep bonds with their families and thrive when given purpose, structure, and daily stimulation. **Best suited to active households** that can match their energy and mental drive. ### Exercise needs #### Exercise needs **Exceptionally high.** Border Collies need **at least two hours of physical activity and mental enrichment every day,** including running, training, games, or agility work. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, they may be unable to express natural behaviours, which can **lead to stress, anxiety and poorer welfare outcomes.** These conditions can lead to behavioural challenges, including destructive or compulsive behaviours. ### Training #### Training Outstanding. **Widely regarded as the world’s most intelligent dog breed,** Border Collies learn quickly and excel in obedience, agility, and advanced training. Like most dogs, **they respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement and enjoy having tasks to master.** ### Grooming #### Grooming **Moderate maintenance.** Their thick double coat sheds year-round and benefits from **regular brushing to reduce loose hair and prevent matting.** During seasonal shedding periods, more frequent grooming may be needed. ## Common Border Collie health conditions Border Collies are generally a hardy breed with a longer-than-average lifespan, but they do carry some health risks that pet parents should be aware of. Select a condition below to learn more. ### Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) A hereditary eye condition present from birth that affects the development of the choroid, retina, and sclera, ranging from mild to severe. ### Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) Gradual degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss. Genetic testing can identify carriers before breeding. ### Hip dysplasia Less common than in larger breeds, but still present in the Border Collie population, particularly in lines bred for appearance rather than working ability. ### Epilepsy Idiopathic epilepsy occurs in Border Collies more than many other breeds and typically requires lifelong medication. ### MDR1 gene mutation Some Border Collies carry a gene mutation that causes severe reactions to common medications including certain antiparasitics. Always inform your vet. ### Merle coats and associated health conditions Border Collies with a merle coat pattern may be at increased risk of certain hearing and eye conditions, including microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes). ## A quick tip **Genetic testing for CEA, PRA, MDR1, and TNS** is widely available and recommended for all Border Collies. There is also testing available for the merle gene (M locus). Responsible breeders will have test results available, so be sure to ask. ## Insuring your Border Collie with RSPCA Pet Insurance Border Collies are wonderful dogs and (with the right care and attention) can be a great addition to your family. However, hereditary conditions like epilepsy and eye disease can mean ongoing specialist care throughout their lives. With RSPCA Pet Insurance, you can manage your Border Collie’s care, without the financial stress. ## Why pet parents choose RSPCA Pet Insurance Your premium helps support animals in need Customise your cover to suit your Border Collie and budget Annual cover options up to $35,000 Zero excess option No tricky sub-limits Optional cover for supportive therapies See more [Get a quote](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) ## Protection with purpose Did you know: **every RSPCA Pet Insurance policy contributes to vital RSPCA animal welfare initiatives.** Protect your Border Collie and support animals in need across Australia. [Learn more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) ## Frequently asked questions ### Do Border Collies need pet insurance? Border Collies are generally healthy, but for those who suffer from conditions like epilepsy, management alone (which requires lifelong anticonvulsant medication and regular vet monitoring) can cost hundreds of dollars a year. Eye conditions, hip issues, and injuries from their active lifestyles also make insurance well worth considering. ### Does RSPCA Pet Insurance cover epilepsy in Border Collies? Yes, our policies cover illnesses including neurological conditions like epilepsy, subject to PDS terms. Epilepsy that develops after your policy begins (and isn’t pre-existing) can be claimed. We recommend reading our [Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) or calling [1300 777 220](tel:1300777220) for more details. ### Can Border Collies develop behavioural problems? Yes, Border Collies are incredibly intelligent and energetic dogs, which means boredom and lack of stimulation can sometimes lead to unwanted behaviours. While consistent training, enrichment, and regular exercise can make a big difference, some behavioural conditions may still require professional treatment. With RSPCA Pet Insurance, optional cover for behavioural conditions is available, subject to applicable terms and conditions. For a quick, commitment-free quote, [click here](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### Is there a discount if I insure more than one pet? Yes! If you insure more than one pet with RSPCA Pet Insurance, you’ll enjoy a **10% discount on all subsequent pets**, helping you keep all your pets protected without stretching your budget. [See more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/faqs/) ## Get an RSPCA Pet Insurance policy Protect your pet. Help animals thrive. [Get a quote](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) Call me