What is the average life expectancy of a border collie?

If you’re researching the Border Collie breed, or already own one of these amazing dogs, then you may be wondering what the average life expectancy of a Border Collie is. Well, you’re in luck. This article is all about out.the average lifespan of Border Collies and it gives further information on the average lifespan of similarly sized dogs.

Of course, when talking about the lifespan of a Border Collie you have to take into account nature vs nurture. A well looked after Border Collie from a reputable breeder is likely to live longer than a dog who hasn’t been well cared for.

If you’re interested in the Border Collie breed why not check out our fun Border Collie breed quiz?

The lifespan of a Border Collie

The average lifespan of a Border Collie ranges between 12 and 15 years. This figure hasn’t just been picked out of thin air, it is the average range given by the American Kennel Club.

In addition to this, this figure is really consistent with mine and Matt’s experience of owning Border Collies. My childhood Collie lived to the age of 16 and Matt’s lived to the age of 12. 

Border Collie maximum age

If you’re wondering what the oldest Border Collie on record is, well in the course of researching this article we found out the following.

The oldest Border Collie on record was a Collie named Bramble, who lived to the amazing age of 25! 

Really interestingly, Bramble lived on a diet that was 100% vegan according to an interview with her owner.

Something to consider maybe if you’re considering a raw food diet for your Border Collie…

Comparing Border Collie life expectancy with other breeds

Perhaps it’s because I’m a little bit geeky, but in the course of researching this article I thought it might be interesting to look at other medium-sized dogs and their lifespan.

In no particular or scientific order, here are some average life spans for some comparable breeds:

• Dalmatian – 11 to 13 years 
• Poodle – 10 to 18 years
• Golden Retriever – 10 to 12 years
• Labradors – 10 to 12 years
• Husky – 12 to 14 years
• Australian Shepherd – 12 to 15 years

The fact that Australian Shepherds have such a similar life expectancy is perhaps no surprise given the similarities between in the two breeds.

However, what maybe kind of reassuring for Border Collie owners is that the average life expectancy compared against Labradors and Golden Retrievers shows that Border Collies tend to be a little bit more healthy.

Source: the American Kennel Club

Average age of medium sized dogs

Based on the figures above, the average life expectancy for a medium-sized dog appears to be between 11 and 14 years

Of course this isn’t very scientific, given the small range of dog breeds listed, but what we can see from it is that Border Collies tend to live a little bit longer than most medium sized dogs. 

Are there ways to increase Border Collie life expectancy?

Well, if I knew the answer to that question but perhaps be able to retire to my own private island! 

However, if we apply the rules of common sense, as well as what we know about human health and life expectancy, there may be a few things owners can do to increase the life expectancy of their Border Collie.

First and foremost, at least at the top of my list, would be diet and exercise.

We all know the Border Collies require a great deal of exercise, so making sure they are are exercised properly is a sure fire way to ensure that you’ve got a healthy dog!

In addition, keeping a close eye on your Border Collies’ weight to ensure that their body condition score stays in the healthy weight range is key. If you’re struggling with your Border Collies’ weight, it may be worth reading up on the pros and cons of a raw food diet.

Last wait means less strain on their hearts, joints, and other essential body parts!

Another thing to consider is how mentally active your Border Collie is throughout their lifetime. 

Challenging your Border Collie through exciting mind games, and keeping them entertained on a regular basis, surely must do wonders for their overall health.

I mean, if we learn anything from human health over the last 50 years, it’s that staying mentally active even in old age is essential.

Of course all of the above depends on having a Border Collie that comes from a reputable breeder so that genetic conditions are minimised.

Summary

Hopefully this quick little article about Border Collie lifespan and life expectancies has proved useful for you!

If you’re new to the Border Collie breed, or even a lifelong owner, please feel free to check out more articles on this website for lots of hints and tips on how to look after and care for your Border Collie.