Border Collie Dogs for Adoption

540 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 391–420 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 14 of 18

Photo of Fisher, adoptable Border Collie in Genesee, Wisconsin

Fisher

Border Collie MaleMediumBaby

Please go to our website, http://www.hoovershausealldogrescue.com/ to complete the adoption application. MUST BE 24 YEARS TO ADOPT!! Once your applica…

Hoovers Hause All Dog Rescue • Genesee, WI

Photo of Buddy, adoptable Border Collie in Martinsburg, West Virginia

Buddy

Border Collie MaleMediumYoung

This adorable guy is Buddy. He is a 12 week old Border Collie mix. Buddy is a total sweetheart. Hes a typical playful, fun pup. He does like to play r…

Berkeley County Humane Society • Martinsburg, WV

Photo of Mimosa, adoptable Border Collie in Sedalia, Colorado

Mimosa

Border Collie FemaleLargeBaby

This pup will be available to meet starting on 8/29They were rescued from a shelter in New Mexico. Meet and greets are by appointment only. An approve…

4 Paws 4 Life Rescue • Sedalia, CO

Photo of Whiskey, adoptable Border Collie in Sedalia, Colorado

Whiskey

Border Collie MaleLargeBaby

This pup will be available to meet starting on 8/29They were rescued from a shelter in New Mexico. Meet and greets are by appointment only. An approve…

4 Paws 4 Life Rescue • Sedalia, CO

Photo of Margarita, adoptable Border Collie in Sedalia, Colorado

Margarita

Border Collie FemaleLargeBaby

This pup will be available to meet starting on 8/29They were rescued from a shelter in New Mexico. Meet and greets are by appointment only. An approve…

4 Paws 4 Life Rescue • Sedalia, CO

Photo of Gretta, adoptable Border Collie in Sacramento, California

Gretta

Border Collie FemaleMedium1 year

Gretta's adoption fee has been paid for with a donation from Tim Pantle

City of Sacramento Animal Care Services • Sacramento, CA

Photo of Champ, adoptable Border Collie in Battle Ground, Washington

Champ

Border Collie MaleMediumYoung

Champ is a beautiful "red" Border Collie that will make a great pet. He is house, kennel and leash trained. Totally fine with cats, horses and all dog…

Second Chance Companions • Battle Ground, WA

Photo of Fern, adoptable Border Collie in Franklin, Tennessee

Fern

Border Collie FemaleMediumYoung

Meet Fern! Some dogs are simply waiting for a family. Fern is waiting for her people—the ones she'll happily follow through every adventure life has t…

Critter Cavalry Rescue • Franklin, TN

Photo of Courage, adoptable Border Collie in Bolivar, Missouri

Courage

Border Collie MaleMediumBaby

Thanks to a grant from the Petfinder Foundation, my adoption fee is 75% off. So I'm only $81.25 to adopt. Someone did a breed test on one of the dogs …

Polk County Humane Society • Bolivar, MO

Photo of Dampimook (Soi Dog), adoptable Border Collie in San Diego, California

Dampimook (Soi Dog)

Border Collie MaleMediumYoung

Meet Dampimook! DOB: January 2025Weight: 40 lbsDisposition: Fun-loving, Outgoing, PlayfulHistory: Best Home: Amazing Qualities: If you're interested i…

The Barking Lot • San Diego, CA

Photo of Fiona, adoptable Border Collie in Oroville, California

Fiona

Border Collie FemaleSmall0 years

Meet Fiona! This beautifu, spayed 4-month-old black-and-white Border Collie mix is a smart, energetic girl with plenty of puppy personality! Fiona can…

Northwest SPCA • Oroville, CA

At Risk
Photo of Cassie, adoptable Border Collie in Newark, Delaware

Cassie

Border Collie FemaleMedium0 years

This dog is located in Newark, DE. Visit us on the web at https://fur-everpaws.com/fur-ever-paws-adoption-application/ to submit an application. Pleas…

Fur-Ever Paws Dog Rescue • Newark, DE

Photo of Elsa, adoptable Border Collie in Incline Village, Nevada

Elsa

Border Collie FemaleMediumYoung

Meet Elsa! Elsa is a small Border Collie mix with the most beautiful crystal-blue eyes and a heart full of love. She is a very sweet girl who enjoys b…

Wylie Animal Rescue Foundation • Incline Village, NV

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.