The Border Collie is widely considered the most intelligent and versatile breed. They can herd sheep, cows, ducks, goats, lamas, geese and other animals. They serve the military, on search and rescue teams and do therapy and assistance work. They perform in competitive events such as obedience, tracking, agility, Frisbee, flyball, sled racing and skijoring. Border Collies often excel in whatever job they are given.

In an environment that does not provide a sufficient outlet for the dog's instinct, drive and need for physical and mental exercise, a Border Collie may engage in unwanted behaviour such as chewing a couch threadbare or their own legs hairless and raw. Very smart dogs are much more demanding of their owner's time and attention and may actually be harder to train than "average" dogs.

In general, Border Collies are highly biddable, rarely bark, and are sight orientated and sensitive to noise. Although typically these dogs are intense, demanding and tireless workers, their temperament varies like their appearance, ranging from couch potatoes to off-the-wall, relentlessness.