Hard
Border Collie
The Border Collie is widely regarded as the most intelligent dog breed in the world, bred for intense herding work and tireless energy. They come in two coat varieties — rough (medium-length with feathering) and smooth (shorter and denser) — both double-coated and both requiring regular brushing and seasonal de-shedding. The rough-coated variety's feathering on the legs, chest, and belly needs the most attention.
Coat Type
Medium Double Coat (Rough Variety) or Short Dense Double Coat (Smooth Variety)
Groom Every
Every 4-6 weeks
Styles Available
4 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Natural Working Dog
The full natural coat is maintained with no body trimming; only feet, hocks, and sanitary areas are tidied. The working dog and breed-standard presentation for both rough and smooth varieties.
2
Neatened Pet Trim
The rough coat's feathering on legs, chest, and breeches is lightly shortened with thinning shears, and stray hairs are tidied throughout for a maintained but natural appearance.
3
Show Preparation
Precise scissoring of the feet, ear edges, hocks, and tail combined with thorough de-shedding to present the Border Collie's natural athleticism and coat quality in the show ring.
4
Summer Tidy
For the rough variety, feathering is shortened and undercoat is thoroughly de-shed to help the dog stay cooler during hot weather while preserving the double coat's protective function.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- Rough-coated Border Collies should be brushed at least 3 times a week, focusing on feathering behind the ears, in the armpits, and on the breeches where the medium-length hair mats first.
- Smooth-coated Border Collies are often mistaken for low-maintenance dogs, but their dense, short double coat sheds just as heavily as the rough variety — weekly brushing with a rubber curry and de-shedding during coat blows is essential.
- Never shave a Border Collie's double coat; both rough and smooth varieties rely on the undercoat for thermal regulation, and shaving can cause permanent coat texture changes and increased sun sensitivity.
- Border Collies are known for their intense focus and responsiveness — use this intelligence to your advantage by teaching them grooming cooperative behaviors (chin rest, paw targeting) so the dog participates willingly in the groom.
- Check and clean the rough collie's ear feathering weekly; the long hair on and around the ears traps debris and moisture, and the slightly dropped ear set reduces airflow making Border Collies somewhat prone to ear wax buildup.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
BrushThe gold standard for poodles and doodles. Features long pins that penetrate deep into dense coats to remove tangles and fluff the hair.
$60 - $75
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
BrushAn excellent entry-level brush that's easy to clean. Great for removing loose fur and detangling shorter coats.
$15 - $25
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Deep Dives
Border Collie Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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