The Border Collie is an extremely intelligent and lively dog breed, but predisposed to some diseases. Let's find out which ones
He is about to end up run over, his mother saves himBorn as a sheepdog, the Border Collie it has now become in effect a companion dog for many families. This breed is extremely lively and agile and is considered the smartest ever, as also confirmed by a study conducted a few years ago by a canine psychologist from the University of British Columbia. If you are considering adopting one, keep in mind that it is a very energetic dog who needs to be outdoors and move around a lot. The Border Collie is, in fact, the enemy of a sedentary lifestyle and loves to run around.
Usually this dog is in good health, but there are diseases that most affect this breed and therefore it is good to know in order to treat and prevent them when possible. Let's find out which ones, but first let's delve into the physical characteristics and personality of this wonderful breed.
Read also: The Boston Terrier is a brachycephalic dog - the most common genetic problems and why you shouldn't buy one
Index
Physical characteristics and personality
The Border Collie is a medium sized dog with an elegant appearance and quite proportioned. Usually the coat is black and white and the hair is dense and also has an undercoat that protects it from the cold. It is, in fact, a breed with Scottish origins, it can tolerate harsh temperatures well.
As for the adult males, the average height is about 53 centimeters, while for the females it is slightly lower. Their weight can fluctuate between 14 and 20 kilos.
This breed has a very alert and brilliant character, capable of learning very quickly (so be careful not to make mistakes when teaching him something). Border Collies are always alert and can socialize easily, even with children.
The most common health problems of this breed
As we have anticipated, this dog breed has a rather resistant and long-lived organism, but it is good to subject it to veterinary checks to avoid the hereditary diseases to which it is subject. Let's see what it is.
Dysplasia of the hip and elbow
Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that actually affects several breeds of dog, generally of medium or large size. It is a growth pathology due to a joint malformation which over time leads to severe osteoarthritis with severe movement limitations and chronic pain. This health problem does not manifest itself from birth, but when it occurs it can lead the dog to limp and pain in the limbs. Not all dogs always have symptoms. To be sure, an x-ray is recommended after the first year of age, especially for dogs that do a lot of physical activity.
Osteocondrite dissecante
Another rather recurrent pathology among Border Collie specimens is osteochondritis dissecans, better known by the acronym OCDl, which affects the articular cartilages and is quite common in dogs. All joints may be affected, but the most affected are the shoulder, knee and elbow. It is a disease that causes a lot of inconvenience, limiting the dog's walking a lot.
Also in this case the diagnostic tool par excellence is represented by the radiography of the affected joints which allows to observe and evaluate the alterations. In the most serious cases, surgical interventions can be used.
Progressive retinal atrophy
Also not to be underestimated in Border Collies is the progressive retinal atrophy in dogs, a genetic disease that affects the eyes and which can also arise in younger specimens. Atrophy can have a slow course: the sight of dogs affected by this disease is destined to decrease in a progressive way.
This problem does not cause painful symptoms but only a more confused view in the presence of light and dilation of the pupils, so it is not always easy for the dog owner to notice. To confirm if your dog is suffering from progressive retinal atrophy, it is necessary to go to the veterinarian, who will check for any damage to the retina.
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
Finally, another vision problem is Collie's eye anomaly (CEA). It is an inherited congenital disease, which can sometimes lead to blindness. CEA is present from birth and does not progress. Puppies affected by this condition appear apparently healthy. Diagnosis can only be made by an ophthalmologist veterinarian or by genetic testing.
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