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Border Collies are highly intelligent, loyal, and energetic pets. As with any beloved pet, owners want their Border Collies to live long and healthy lives. So, how long do Border Collies live? An average Border Collie’s lifespan tends to be somewhere between 12 and 15 years. To ensure their longevity and well-being, it’s best to understand what impacts your dog’s lifespan. By taking proactive steps to support their health, you can maximize your chances of enjoying a long and fulfilling life with your Border Collie.
Today, we’ll explore the Border Collie’s lifespan and the factors impacting it.
What Is the Average Border Collie Lifespan?
On average, the lifespan of a Border Collie is typically between 12 and 15 years. Still, various factors can influence their lifespan, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, and healthcare.
Border Collies can lead healthy lives with proper care into their senior years. Owners must provide a complete and balanced diet and regular exercise and mental stimulation to ensure longevity and well-being. Routine check-ups with a vet will have a positive impact on the dog’s chances of living a longer and healthier life by detecting and addressing health conditions in a timely manner.
Why Do Some Border Collies Live Longer Than Others?
Most Border Collies live between 12 and 15 years, but some may live longer than others.
Healthcare
Healthcare is an essential component of a Border Collie’s longevity and well-being. Regular check-ups can help vets identify and manage health issues before they become serious. A vet can provide necessary vaccinations and parasite control to protect your dog against preventable diseases.
Vets can also spay or neuter your pet, which is generally associated with increased longevity, although there are variable results in the literature.
Nutrition
Nutrition is a critical factor in a Border Collie’s health and longevity. A balanced, high-quality diet with the necessary amount and nutrient composition can prevent various health issues and promote good health. Like all dogs, Border Collies need a complete and balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs in their different life stages.
High-quality dog food containing the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates will promote healthy growth. It will also maintain their optimal weight and prevent obesity, nutritional deficiencies, and digestive problems so it is important to get this right. A veterinarian can be a great source of advice in this matter.
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Environment and Living Conditions
Dogs in a healthy and safe environment may live longer than those in unhealthy or stressful conditions. For example, dogs living indoors face fewer toxins than dogs in an outdoor environment. Being involved in road traffic accidents is much more common in dogs that don’t live in a controlled environment and can negatively affect their lifespan.
Genes
Genetics can play a significant role in determining a Border Collie’s lifespan. Like any breed, some Border Collies may have a genetic predisposition for certain diseases and increased longevity. If a dog’s parents lived long and healthy lives, it’s likelier for the dog to have a longer lifespan.
So, it’s best to research a dog’s bloodline before adopting or purchasing a Border Collie. A responsible breeder will provide information about the dog’s genes and potential health issues.
Lifestyle
A Border Collie’s lifestyle can also influence their lifespan. Dogs with an active lifestyle and the right mental stimulation will likely live longer and healthier lives. The same cannot be said for overweight, understimulated, and bored Border Collies, who end up having major behavioral problems due to their high energy levels and training needs.
Border Collies need at least 2 hours of daily exercise, not only for running but also for having a job to do. They require active owners and thrive in activities such as agility and flyball, to name a few.
The 4 Life Stages of a Border Collie
Like any dog, Border Collies go through four stages of life. Owners must leverage different training methods and stimulation throughout each phase to transform them into happy, well-behaved adults.
1. Puppy Stage
The puppy stage is a crucial period in a Border Collie’s life, lasting from birth to around 6 to 12 months. During this stage, puppies are active, curious, and playful. They are constantly exploring their environment and learning about the world around them.
One of the most vital aspects of the puppy stage is socialization. Exposing puppies to people, animals, and environments during this stage is crucial. It can help them develop positive social skills and avoid anxiety later in life. Well-socialized puppies are more confident and become well-behaved adults.
2. Adolescent or Young Adult Stage
Young adult Border Collies will complete their physical and social maturation at around 3 to 4 years of age. The dog is still highly active, playful, and curious during this stage. However, they may start to become more independent and challenging to train.
At this stage, Border Collies may experience a second fear period. They may become more sensitive and fearful of new experiences and environments. This can be challenging for the dog and owner, but consistent training can help the dog develop into a well-behaved adult.
3. Mature Adult Stage
The adult stage in a Border Collie’s life lasts until they are around 9 years old. At this point, the dog is mature and at their physical peak. Adult Border Collies are active and need daily stimulation to maintain their well-being.
Border Collies may settle into their personalities and predictable behavior during this stage. They may have a better understanding of boundaries and expectations. As a result, they will be more obedient and responsive to commands.
Still, continue your regular training and socialization to maintain their good behavior.
4. Senior Stage
The senior stage in a Border Collie’s life begins around 9 years of age and lasts the rest of the dog’s life until they reach the end of life stage. During this stage, Border Collies may start to show signs of aging, which include decreased mobility, reduced energy levels, and changes in behavior.
They may also develop age-related health issues, requiring regular check-ups and specialized care. Regular exercise is still important but may need to be altered to account for any mobility issues. Shorter walks or gentle playtime may be better than more intense activities.
How to Tell Your Border Collie’s Age
If your Border Collie is a stray, it may be hard to tell how old they are. Luckily, examining their teeth and eyes can provide a general age range.
- Teeth: In puppies, baby teeth come in around 3 to 54 weeks. Then, they begin to lose them around 12 to 16 weeks. By 6 months, most dogs have all their adult teeth.
- Eyes: Puppies have bright, clear eyes that change to a more mature appearance as they age. Senior dogs may develop a cloudy appearance in their eyes. That can point to the development of cataracts or nuclear sclerosis.
- Coat: Puppies have a soft, fluffy coat that is significantly shorter. As they age, their fur becomes denser and coarser. Senior dogs may develop gray hair around their muzzle or have a thinning coat.
- Behavior: Puppies are very energetic and playful. Meanwhile, adult dogs are more settled and focused. Senior dogs may move more slowly and have difficulty with stairs or jumping.
Conclusion
Border Collies are energetic, extremely intelligent dogs that make great companions. Their lifespan can vary depending on genetics, environment, and nutrition, but it is typically 10 to 15 years. To ensure a long and healthy life for your Border Collie, you must provide them with proper care. You should also socialize with your dog to keep them happy throughout their lives.
By understanding the factors that impact a Border Collie’s lifespan, you can enjoy many healthy years with your pup.
Featured Image Credit: Koen Adriaenssen, Shutterstock
