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Border Collie
Moderate Health Risk

Border Collie Pet Insurance Guide

Lifespan

12–15 years

Weight

30–55 lbs

Avg. Vet Cost/Year

$350–$1,300

Avg. Insurance

$28–$55/mo

Overview

Border Collies are widely considered the most intelligent dog breed, excelling at agility, herding, and obedience. Their high energy and athletic lifestyle contribute to orthopedic injury risk, while genetic conditions like epilepsy and Collie Eye Anomaly require ongoing management.

Common Health Conditions

Hip DysplasiaEpilepsyCollie Eye AnomalyOsteochondritis DissecansMDR1 Drug Sensitivity

Potential Expensive Conditions

Epilepsy Management (annual)$500–$3,000/year
Hip Dysplasia Surgery$3,500–$7,000
OCD Surgery$2,000–$4,000
Eye Surgery$2,000–$5,000

Why Border Collies Need Insurance

Border Collies' active lifestyle increases injury risk, and their genetic predisposition to epilepsy means potential lifelong medication costs. Epilepsy management alone can cost $500–$3,000 annually for 10+ years.

Breed-Specific Health Risks

Epilepsy is the most significant breed-specific concern, often appearing between ages 1–5. Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is a hereditary condition affecting the retina. MDR1 gene mutation causes dangerous sensitivity to common medications including ivermectin. Hip dysplasia and OCD are orthopedic concerns.

Insurance Tips for Border Collie Owners

For Border Collies, ensure coverage for chronic neurological conditions (epilepsy) and hereditary eye conditions. MDR1 testing is recommended — inform your vet about this sensitivity.

Our Recommendation

Why We Recommend Healthy Paws for Border Collies

Healthy Paws covers epilepsy and hereditary eye conditions with unlimited payouts. For a breed that may require lifelong seizure medication, unlimited annual coverage ensures consistent treatment.

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