Border Collie Dogs for Adoption

540 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1–30 of 540 below.

About adopting a Border Collie

Widely considered the most intelligent of working dogs, the Border Collie is also one of the most demanding, and rescue Border Collies are often young dogs whose minds outran their owners' plans. They stare, they stalk, they herd whatever moves, and they need a job more than they need a couch.

Puppies and adolescents thrive on training, agility, disc, herding games, and puzzle work, and they can pick up new cues in a single session. Without that outlet, many develop obsessive habits like chasing shadows or nipping at running children. They tend to be sensitive to tone and do best with calm, positive handling.

A Border Collie in a quiet home with an active owner can be a superb companion. In a busy household with toddlers and no time for training, it is often a poor fit. Many are wary of strangers and sensitive to noise. Ask the shelter or rescue about the individual dog's background, its response to children and other animals, and how training has gone so far.

540 Border Collie dogs available — page 1 of 18

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Photo of Alexa, adoptable Border Collie in Phoenix, Arizona

Alexa

Border Collie FemaleSmall0 years

Why I'd make a great companion: ~Woof! My name is Alexa and I weigh 8 LBS. ~I’m curious, clever, adventurous, and just the right amount of mischief! ~…

Arizona Humane Society - Sunnyslope • Phoenix, AZ

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Photo of Jessica, adoptable Border Collie in Phoenix, Arizona

Jessica

Border Collie FemaleSmall0 years

Why I'd make a great companion: ~Woof! My name is Jessica and I weigh 8 LBS. ~I may currently weigh approximately as much as a bag of potatoes, but I …

Arizona Humane Society - Sunnyslope • Phoenix, AZ

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Photo of Joanna, adoptable Border Collie in Phoenix, Arizona

Joanna

Border Collie FemaleSmall0 years

Why I'd make a great companion: ~Woof! My name is Joanna and I weigh 7 LBS. ~I'm looking for someone who will patiently help me learn that the world i…

Arizona Humane Society - Sunnyslope • Phoenix, AZ

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Photo of Spring, adoptable Border Collie in Chestertown, Maryland

Spring

Border Collie FemaleMedium1 year

Spring has sprung... and she's ready to bloom in her forever home! Meet Spring, a beautiful 1-year-old Border Collie mix with a gentle heart and an ea…

Humane Society of Kent County Maryland Inc. • Chestertown, MD

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Photo of Dolly, adoptable Border Collie in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Dolly

Border Collie FemaleMedium2 years

Meet Dolly, a delightful 2-year-old female Border Collie who is ready to find her forever home! Dolly is a smart and affectionate companion with excel…

City of Tulsa Animal Welfare • Tulsa, OK

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Photo of Miss Chompers, adoptable Border Collie in Burnsville, North Carolina

Miss Chompers

Border Collie FemaleMediumest. 1–7 yrs

Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than st…

Yancey County Humane Society • Burnsville, NC

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Photo of Hugo, adoptable Border Collie in Center Township, Pennsylvania

Hugo

Border Collie MaleMediumYoung

Hello! I am new to the shelter! Please keep checking my profile for updates as the staff gets to know me better! If this dog has been successful in ou…

Beaver County Humane Society • Center Township, PA

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Photo of Jasper, adoptable Border Collie in Tarboro, North Carolina

Jasper

Border Collie MaleMediumYoung

Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options…

Edgecombe County Animal Shelter • Tarboro, NC

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Photo of Happy, adoptable Border Collie in Riverside, California

Happy

Border Collie FemaleMedium2 years

Riverside County Animal Control - Riverside Shelter • Riverside, CA

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Photo of Skye, adoptable Border Collie in PIPE CREEK, Texas

Skye

Border Collie FemaleMedium1 year

This dog is in a foster home in San Antonio, TX. Prospective adopters must be able to travel to San Antonio to complete the adoption process. Please a…

San Antonio Great Dane Rescue • PIPE CREEK, TX

Adopting a Border Collie — FAQ

Are Border Collies good family dogs?

Border Collies can be good family dogs in active households with older children and time for daily training. Their herding instinct may lead them to nip at running kids. Families expecting a low-maintenance pet usually struggle. An adult with a known family history is a safer choice.

How much exercise does a Border Collie need?

A Border Collie needs a lot of exercise and even more mental work. A long walk alone rarely satisfies a young one, so add fetch, agility, or training games. Many owners find that a well-trained Border Collie with a job settles better than one that simply runs.

Can a Border Collie live in an apartment?

A Border Collie can live in an apartment if the owner commits to substantial daily activity and training outside the home. Space matters less than engagement. Without it, boredom leads to barking and destruction. An adult with a calmer temperament, as described by the rescue, is more realistic.

How do I adopt a Border Collie?

Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance simply gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find.

Are Border Collie dogs a good fit for first-time adopters?

Many Border Collie dogs — especially adult dogs who are already house-trained — can be a great match for first-time owners. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them can tell you about that dog's individual energy level, training, and personality before you apply.

How much does it cost to adopt a Border Collie?

Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue, but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health check. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.

Are Border Collie dogs good with children or other pets?

It depends on the individual dog more than the breed alone. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you about their history with kids, cats, and other dogs. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone before you commit.

Can I foster a Border Collie instead of adopting?

Many shelters and rescues offer a foster program, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering a Border Collie gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home, which is a great way to see if the match feels right before committing. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is an option.

What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a Border Collie?

Most dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. A consistent routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you. The shelter or rescue can tell you what to expect from the specific dog you're adopting.