Since then, the breed has split into show and working lines. According to the Michigan State University Thyroid Database, up to 17% of Border Collies have hypothyroidism (low thyroid levels). Border collies require considerably more daily physical exercise and mental stimulation than many other breeds. Hip dysplasia is the most common orthopedic disease in Border Collies. Compared to many canine breeds, relatively few hereditary ailments afflict them. Gait/movement You might still have years with him in your home. Early diagnosis is the key to a long and happy life, so be sure to schedule routine checkups. Border Collies have two different types of coats. Chewing is typical in most puppies, and Border Collies chew too. Common health problems in Border Collies. Border Collies seem especially prone to Canine Hip Dysplasia which causes mild to severe lameness. One exception is hip dysplasia. Border collies are intelligent, hardworking dogs that are always eager to learn new tricks. Their herding method (an intimidating but calm stare known as "giving eye") is effective and unique. White Border Collie If two merle dogs breed, they can pass on the double-merle gene, which results in a white coat, but also in vision and hearing problems. Your Border Collie’s Health This can be a very annoying problem with a dog that hasn’t learned to leave the house only when it has permission to do so. There are a number of such diseases that occur in border collies but we are fortunate enough to have a variety of DNA tests available and health testing schemes in place that can help breeders, thus making the Border Collie one of the soundest breeds around. However, there are still a number of conditions and issues to watch out for to ensure that your new friend remains as … The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern and the carrier rate appears to be high—10% of the population of show and working Border Collies. Have you ever opened your door just for a second just to have your Border Collie dash out of the house without a leash on? Genetic Diseases To be considered a genetic disease, a health problem needs to have been demonstrated to be heritable, that is, … Border Collies are one of the healthiest breeds of dogs and do not have nearly as many health concerns as other breeds. A healthy Border Collie can live as long as 15 years. This is not a progressive disease, it will not imply the worsening of the dog’s level of vision as time goes by. One of the most problematic border collie breed’s health problems is knows as Canine Hip Dysplasia. Unfortunately, like so many other purebred dogs, they are at risk of certain problems and conditions relating to their breed. Border Collie: The legendary Border Collie originated in Great Britain in the 1800's. The border collie ranks 1st in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs, being part of the top 10 brightest dogs. Any Border Collie with an undesirable colour would be refused registration. Another very common Border Collie health problems is known as Collie eye anomaly, this defect is inherited and could lead to blindness. Border Collies are generally a healthy breed with an average life span of 12-15 years. Health issues are riskier with merles (Double Merles) Every now and then, two merles (both carrying the merle gene) mate, and when two merles mate, they have a 25% chance of producing a double merle puppy. The Border has a good tolerance for cold and rain, but not for heat and inactivity. Have your border collie keep you company as you lockup for the night before going to bed. The information below is intended to educate both breeders and buyers on the main health and genetic issues facing the Border Collie at this time. Do things with your border collie such as have it bring you its toys or do its repertoire of tricks for treats. Hip dysplasia in Border Collies. The Border has a good tolerance for cold and rain, but not for heat and inactivity. Canine Hip Dysplasia is very common affliction for medium and large sized dogs of most breeds. Border Collie: Health Issues & Personality. But for the workaholic, constantly active border collie, it means he can't do his job. 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 , and Collie eye anomaly , and major ailments like canine hip dysplasia . Problems with Chewing. Border Collie Health Hereditary diseases occur in most if not all dog breeds. Health and Genetics. That's high for a medium size dog. Border Collie Health Hereditary diseases occur in most if not all dog breeds. Just because your beloved border collie is getting old does not mean he’s going to die tomorrow.