How Much Does a Border Collie Cost?

Last Updated on February 13, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

The Border Collie is consistently ranked as one of the most intelligent, energetic, trainable, and athletic breeds of dog. Their heritage stems from centuries of specialized breeding as dutiful herding dogs in the border country between Scotland and England.

The breed’s uncanny ability to control sheep with an intense gaze and flowing movement has made them icons of the livestock farming world.

Beyond their renown for sheepherding, modern Border Collies excel in various canine sports and work roles ranging from competitive obedience and agility to search and rescue and assistance for the disabled.

Their high drive, endless energy, human-focused nature, and desire to always be working make them wonderful companions for the right owners.

However, the Border Collie’s needs for constant activity and mental stimulation do necessitate significant investments of time, training, and finances.

How Much Does a Border Collie Cost?

For those set on getting a purebred Border Collie puppy, prices typically range between $800 on the low end up to $1,500 from preeminent breeders. Several factors influence the specific price point:

• Bloodline and Pedigree – Border Collies from champion bloodlines with parent dogs who have competed successfully in herding trials, conformation shows, or canine athletics often demand much higher prices. Multi-titled parents can increase value.
• Breeder Reputation and Experience – Established breeders with decades of experience in purebred Border Collies and a track record of health, temperament, and quality will rightfully charge more than backyard breeders or puppy mills churning out litters.
• Early Neurological Stimulation – Reputable breeders will use techniques like the “Super Dog” program to promote nerve development and resilience. These enriched pups often cost more.
• Early Socialization – Puppies raised in bustling households with proper handling, sounds, and exposure to environments and people usually demand a higher price. Avoid timid litter mates.
• Age – In general, 8 to 12-week-old Border Collie puppies will be the cheapest, ranging from $800 to $1,200+. Older puppies with some basic training under their belts often range from $1,200 to $1,500+.
• Location – As with any purebred dog, prices fluctuate based on breed popularity and breeder availability in your local region. More rural areas may have lower prices if working Collies are common.
• Gender – For some breeding programs, male Border Collies pups cost slightly more than females, by a few hundred dollars. But this varies by the litter.
• Training Investment – Occasionally breeders will retain promising puppies for several months of foundational training before offering them for sale at a higher premium price. These pups exhibit more focus and control.
• Suitability for Showing or Breeding – Puppies deemed to be of show quality or excellent breeding stock may command higher breeder prices than their same-litter companions. But be realistic about any dreams of dog shows.

When researching breeders, prospective buyers should request documentation for genetic and orthopedic health clearances. Reputable breeders will gladly provide proof of genetic testing and exams by veterinary ophthalmologists and cardiologists to screen for common issues like collie eye anomaly and hip/elbow dysplasia. Avoid breeders who won’t show documentation.

According to Hepper.com, the cost of a purebred Border Collie ranges between $600 and $1,200, with show-quality puppies potentially costing more. Adoption fees for Border Collies typically range from $100 to $400, depending on the organization and the dog’s age, with senior dogs often carrying lower fees.

SpotPetIns.com mentions that the average price to buy a Border Collie dog is about $700. However, if you go to sources like the AKC marketplace, the cost can be in the range of $700 to $2,000.

Various Reddit users reported paying different prices for Border Collie puppies, ranging from $200 to $1,800, depending on the breeder and the dog’s lineage.

As TryFi.com notes, generally, Border Collie puppies cost from reputable breeders ranges between $700 and $2,000, with some purebred, show-quality puppies fetching even higher prices. Adoption fees for Border Collies typically range from $100 to $400, depending on the organization and the dog’s age, with senior dogs often carrying lower fees.

The website BorderCollie.org features a discussion board on the prices of Border Collie puppies, with users sharing the prices they paid for their puppies, ranging from $200 to $1,800, depending on the breeder, location, and the dog’s lineage.

Adopting an Adult Border Collie

For those interested in providing an already trained, mature Border Collie a new forever home, adopting from a Border Collie rescue organization or shelter can be very rewarding. Costs are lower too.

Adoption fees for adult Border Collies typically run between $150 on the lower end up to $400 for highly trained dogs. The specific fee depends on several factors:

• Age – Puppies and younger adolescent Border Collies usually have higher adoption prices than seniors over age 7. Their adoption is riskier for the group, so fees help offset medical care invested.
• Medical Needs – Dogs with significant health issues from their past life or injuries may have higher adoption fees to offset their care while in rescue.
• Training – Border Collies who have been through professional training programs with demonstrated skills in obedience, agility, therapy work, or other areas will usually cost $350 to $400+. Their training increases chances of adoption success.
• Demand – In some regions, adoption interest is so high for Border Collies that even untrained young adults will have an adoption fee near $400. But prices are lower in rural areas with more herding Collies needing homes.
• Shelter vs. Rescue – Shelters focused on volume and population control tend to have lower adoption fees, averaging $150 to $275. Specialty Border Collie rescues invest more resources into dogs so adoption costs are higher, averaging $275 to $400.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a Yorkie Poo, a Bloodhound, or a Tibetan Mastiff.

What’s included in the adoption fee?

Most shelters and rescues will ensure the dog is spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and dewormed, and provided basic vetting prior to adoption. Initial supplies like a collar, ID tag, and sample food may be included as well.

Ask the adoption coordinator extensive questions about the temperament, energy, and behavioral needs of any dog you consider adopting. Try to observe the dog interacting with people and other pets.

A good rescue will honestly match you with an appropriate dog for your lifestyle and experience level. Meet the whole family before adoption to ensure it’s a good fit.

Necessary Initial Supplies

Once you have selected your new Border Collie family member, you’ll need to immediately budget for the initial round of essential supplies. Necessities like food, containment, grooming tools, veterinary fees, and training will add up quickly.

Here are some average price ranges for required gear and services when first bringing home a Border Collie puppy or adult dog:

• Wire Dog Crate – $80 to $200+ depending on size. Needed for house training, establishing a safe space, and preventing destruction. Get one large enough for adult size.
• High-Quality Dog Bed – $80 to $150+ for orthopedic or thickly padded cot beds suitable for the breed’s joints and tendency to nip at bedding. Elevated cot styles work well.
• Dog Collar & Leash Set – $40 to $60 for everyday walking and tags. Go with durable leather or nylon choices that won’t fray from leash pressure. Include your contact info on ID tags.
• Stainless Steel Bowls – $15 to $40+ for no-tip, non-porous bowls. Budget for a few sets to have in multiple rooms or packed for travel.
• Puppy Food – $15 to $60+ per month depending on formula. Feed top rated large breed puppy foods for nutritional balance.
• Adult Dog Food – $40 to $80+ per month for high quality dry, raw, fresh, or canned foods to maintain an active herding dog.
• Interactive Food Puzzles – $15 to $40 each for mental stimulation at mealtime. Rotate puzzle toys to prevent boredom.
• Grooming Supplies – $50 to $150+ for deshedding tool, slicker and bristle brushes, comb, nail clippers. Stock up on weekly grooming necessities.
• Variety of Dog Toys – $5 to $20 each for balls, plush toys, ropes, treat dispensing toys. Have a selection on hand and rotate frequently to prevent destructive boredom.
• Enroll in Obedience Training – $150 to $250+ for introductory group class with a skilled trainer. Socialization and manners are essential.
• Initial Vet Visit – $125 to $275+ for first puppy or adult visit, exam, vaccines, heartworm test/meds, fecal exam. Establish a medical record and get advice.
• Spay or Neuter Surgery – $100 to $500 depending on gender, age at time of surgery, geographic location. Females cost more.
• Microchip ID – $25 to $50 for permanent ID chip implantation and registration. Essential for a roaming herding breed.
• Puppy Kindergarten – $150 to $250 additional for vital early socialization if you get a young puppy.

Factor these costs into your budget BEFORE acquiring a Border Collie, as they can easily total $1,000+ in initial supplies, healthcare, and training when first starting out. It’s imperative for the dog’s welfare to properly equip yourself before adoption or purchase.

Monthly Ongoing Expenses

Once you have all the initial supplies and get through the first intense months of training and bonding with your new Border Collie family member, you’ll quickly notice the regular monthly expenses add up as well.

Herding breed like the Border Collie requires dedicated investments of time and money. Here are some estimated monthly costs that potential Border Collie owners should budget for:

• Quality Dog Food – $50 to $100+ per month depending on diet. Active working dogs need nutritious, high-protein diets to maintain muscle tone and energy. Feed the best quality food you can afford.
• Treats for Training – $10 to $30 per month for nutritious single-ingredient training treats to motivate and reward during daily training sessions.
• Chew Toys – $5 to $20 per month to replace heavily chewed toys. Strong chewers need safer chew outlets.
• Grooming Tools – $10 to $30 per month to replace worn brushes, combs, clippers as needed. Professional grooming is extra.
• Pet Insurance – $50 to $150+ per month depending on breed, age, policy details like reimbursement rate and deductible.
• Routine Veterinary Care – $300 to $600 annually for recommended exams, vaccines, heartworm testing, fecal checks and preventatives.
• Flea & Tick Prevention – $10 to $30 monthly for veterinarian-prescribed topical or oral treatments.
• Training Classes or Private Training – $150+ per month for continued education. Lifelong training is essential for working breeds.
• Dog Walking or Dog Daycare – $300 to $600+ per month if you work away from home. Border Collies shouldn’t be left alone for long periods.
• Dog Sports & Activities – $50 to $200+ annually for sports like agility, dock diving, herding trials, etc.
• Toys & Miscellaneous Supplies – $20 to $50 per month minimum. Always have fresh, new toys on hand.

Maintaining an enriched lifestyle for a brilliant working breed like the Border Collie has costs, but paying for preventative medical care, nutritious food, supervision, training, and activities will lead to a healthy, well-adjusted dog.

Ongoing monthly expenses for properly caring for an active, intelligent Border Collie average $150 to $250. Potential owners must be prepared to invest time and money into providing adequate exercise, supervision, training, veterinary care, quality nutrition, and plenty of toys and activities.

While a significant commitment, dedicating yourself to meeting the needs of a Border Collie will lead to a wonderfully rewarding relationship with these amazing dogs. If planned for appropriately, the costs are absolutely worth it! Do your research before getting a Border Collie to ensure you can meet this breed’s needs for life.

Choosing the Right Border Collie

Whether adopting or buying from a breeder, take time selecting the right Border Collie for your home. Meet the parents, when possible, to evaluate temperament and drive. Border Collies excel at canine sports, but backyard bred dogs may lack focus. Well-bred pups from health-tested, proven parents are most predictable.

Rescues can be rewarding but may require patience and training. Ensure the dog has been properly vetted and temperament tested. Some may not do well in households with small pets or young children. Ask questions to match their energy and needs.

Responsible breeding and rescue practices ensure the best outcomes for these brilliant dogs and owners. A Border Collie who fits your lifestyle will be a beloved companion for years to come.

In summary, the cost of a Border Collie ranges from $800 to $1,500 for a puppy or $150 to $400 for adoption. Monthly expenses average $100 to $200 including food, supplies, training, healthcare, insurance, and activities. While costly, responsible Border Collie ownership greatly rewards dedicated owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time does a Border Collie need?

Border Collies typically need 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous exercise and play per day, along with mental stimulation through training, interactive toys, and “jobs” around the home.

Without adequate activity, they may become destructive or neurotic. Daily walks, play sessions, hiking on weekends, and participation in dog sports will help meet their needs.

How much does it cost to walk a Border Collie?

The average cost for a 30-minute private dog walk is $15 to $25. Daily dog walking for a high-energy Border Collie can cost $300 to $600 per month. Alternatively, consider doggy daycare a few days a week at $20 to $40 per day to meet their activity requirements.

Do Border Collies bark a lot?

When properly stimulated, exercised, and trained, Border Collies are not excessively vocal dogs. However, they are prone to nuisance barking and herding people/pets if bored or under-exercised. Providing adequate outlets for their intelligence and energy will prevent problem barking.

Can Border Collies be left alone all day?

Border Collies are highly people-focused dogs who can suffer separation anxiety. Leaving them alone for 8-10 hours daily is not recommended. If your schedule requires long work hours, consider providing a mid-day dog walker, doggy daycare, or coming home over lunch to break up the Border Collie’s alone time.