Breed Guides

Border Collie Grooming Guide: Costs, Cuts & Care Tips (2026)

Complete guide to Border Collie grooming including costs, popular cuts, grooming frequency, and professional care tips.

Updated January 202610 min read
Border Collie being brushed

Border Collies have beautiful double coats that require regular grooming to manage shedding

Quick Answer:

Border Collie grooming costs $55-$90 every 8-10 weeks. They come in rough (long) and smooth (short) coat varieties. Both shed moderately to heavily and benefit from regular brushing (2-3 times weekly).

Border Collie Grooming Costs

Here's what to expect for professional Border Collie grooming based on size and service type:

SizeWeightBasic GroomFull Groom
Border Collie30-55 lbs$55-$70$70-$90

Annual grooming costs: $330-$540 (based on grooming every 8-10 weeks).

For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.

Border Collie Coat Type & Care

Border Collies have a weather-resistant double coat. Rough coats are medium-length with feathering, while smooth coats are shorter all over. Both types have a dense undercoat that sheds seasonally.

Coat TypeDouble/Medium
SheddingModerate to heavy
Grooming FrequencyEvery 8-10 weeks
Brushing2-3 times weekly (daily during shedding)
Grooming DifficultyMedium

Popular Border Collie Haircuts

Here are the most popular grooming styles for Border Collies:

Bath and Brush

Best for: Most Border Collie owners

Standard grooming with de-shedding treatment. No cutting.

Maintenance: Regular brushing at home

Tidy Trim

Best for: Neater appearance

Light trimming of feathering on legs, ears, and rear.

Maintenance: Medium - occasional tidying

Working Dog Trim

Best for: Active, working dogs

Feathering shortened for practical purposes.

Maintenance: Low - easier to maintain

Border Collie Grooming Schedule

Follow this schedule to keep your Border Collie looking and feeling their best:

  • Professional grooming: Every 8-10 weeks
  • Brushing: 2-3 times weekly
  • Bathing: Every 6-8 weeks
  • Nail trimming: Every 3-4 weeks
  • Ear cleaning: Weekly

Puppy Grooming

Border Collie puppies have softer coats. Adult coat develops around 6-12 months. Start brushing routine early.

Senior Dog Grooming

Older Border Collies may have changes in coat texture. Watch for any skin issues.

Find a Border Collie-experienced groomer

Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Border Collies and similar breeds.

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Common Border Collie Grooming Problems

Heavy Shedding

Border Collies shed year-round with heavy seasonal shedding.

Prevention: Regular brushing with undercoat rake. De-shedding treatments help.

Matting in Feathers

Longer feathering can mat, especially if wet.

Prevention: Brush feathering regularly. Comb through after outdoor activities.

Ear Issues

Semi-erect ears can accumulate debris.

Prevention: Weekly ear checks and cleaning.

At-Home Border Collie Grooming

Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Border Collie's coat at home.

Essential Tools

  • Slicker brush
  • Undercoat rake
  • Metal comb
  • Pin brush for feathering
  • Nail clippers

Grooming Tips

  • Brush 2-3 times weekly minimum
  • Use undercoat rake during shedding season
  • Don't shave - their coat protects them
  • Pay attention to feathering areas

Finding a Border Collie-Experienced Groomer

Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Border Collie:

  • Look for experience with herding breeds
  • Ask about de-shedding techniques
  • Ensure they won't recommend shaving
  • Check their handling of active dogs

For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Border Collie grooming cost?

Border Collie grooming costs $55-$90 per session.

Do Border Collies shed a lot?

Yes, they shed moderately to heavily, especially during seasonal coat changes.

Should I shave my Border Collie?

No, never shave a Border Collie. Their double coat insulates them and protects from sun.

How often should a Border Collie be groomed?

Every 8-10 weeks professionally. Brush 2-3 times weekly at home.

What is the difference between rough and smooth Border Collies?

Rough coats are medium-length with feathering. Smooth coats are shorter all over. Both have double coats.

How do I reduce Border Collie shedding?

Regular brushing, de-shedding treatments, and a quality diet help manage shedding.

The Bottom Line

Border Collie grooming requires professional appointments every 8-10 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Border Collie looking and feeling their best.

Find a groomer experienced with Border Collies, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Border Collie will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.

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