5 Common Border Collie Health Concerns

If you’re looking for a lifelong adventure buddy, there’s no better companion than the lively, loyal Border Collie. These dogs are known for their remarkable intelligence, boundless energy, and loving personalities. 

These athletic collies originally served as champion sheep herders, helping humans all over the world wrangle in cattle. While your Border Collie may be more likely to wrangle in the neighborhood squirrels nowadays, these pups still remain quick-witted, caring canines that make great additions to any family. 

Just like any other breed, Border Collies come with their own set of health concerns that any prospective owner should be aware of. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Border Collie Health concerns so that you can be a prepared puppy parent. 

Collie Eye Anomaly 

This inherited disease, often referred to as CEA, affects all breeds in the “Collie” family and is caused by a mutation one of the genes responsible for the development of the eye. Unfortunately, this condition can lead to blindness, though not all cases are this severe. 

There is no treatment for Collie Eye Anomaly though there is a genetic test available to prescreen puppy parents to reduce your dog’s risk of developing the disease. 

Osteochondritis Dissecans 

Osteochondritis Dissecans or OCD refers to when a dog’s diseased cartilage separates from its underlying bone. This developmental disease usually presents itself in periods of rapid growth, usually somewhere within the 6 to 9 month age range. 

Dogs affected with this disease usually experience some form of lameness or immobility in the affected leg. This can be incredibly painful for your pooch and you may see excessive inflammation, swelling, or your dog may have difficulty putting weight on the affected area altogether. 

Sometimes this condition will heal on its own, whereas in other cases your dog will require surgical intervention. Regardless, you’ll want to set up an appointment with your veterinarian at the first sign of this condition. 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA refers to the set of degenerative diseases that can lead Border Collies to lose vision over time. Unfortunately, this condition is largely unavoidable since it’s inherited from one generation to the next. This also speaks to the importance of finding a reputable Border Collie breeder to lower your puppy’s risk of developing PRA. 

You may notice your dog losing some of their vision at night initially. Over time, this may lead to full on blindness in the affected eye. This degeneration can occur very rapidly, with some affected dogs losing full vision within a year. Unfortunately, there is no cure for progressive retinal atrophy. 

Hypothyroidism 

Hypothyroidism refers to the underproduction of the thyroid gland in the body. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating your dog’s metabolism, so it’s underproduction will affect a wide range of experiences throughout your dog’s everyday life. 

You may notice a change in your dog’s appetite, hair loss, lethargy, or weakness. This condition is diagnosed with a blood screening and usually requires lifelong treatment. Dogs with hypothyroidism will most likely take a daily hormone replacement medication. 

Epilepsy

Border Collies are unfortunately prone to canine epilepsy which is a neurological condition in dogs resulting in sporadic, sometimes life threatening seizures. Depending on the epilepsy class, dogs may start exhibiting seizures at as early as 6 months of age. If you notice any convulsions or epileptic episodes from your dog, it’s important that you find medical care for your dog as soon as possible. Your veterinarian may be able to prescribe anti-epileptic medications to help your dog manage his condition. 

There’s nothing quite like life with a Border Collie. These sweet dogs are so worth our love and attention with their strong work ethic and eternal loyalty to their families. Enjoy welcoming one of these brainiac buddies into your life.

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