AKC calls the Border Collie a remarkably bright workaholic, maybe a bit too amazing for owners without the time, energy or means to keep it occupied. A boarding week has to occupy a mind as well as legs.
How much room
Males are 19 to 22 inches, females 18 to 21, and the weight range is 30 to 55 pounds. A dog under 40 pounds does well in Economy, and a bigger or more restless dog does better in Business Class, 5x6 ft.
Two coat types
Rough and smooth varieties both have a double coat. AKC rates shedding at 3 of 5. The bath chart cell is Medium ($45) or Double Coated ($55) at 26 to 50 pounds, and $50 or $65 at 51 to 75. Ask to confirm.
A dog that needs a job
Energy is 5 of 5. Border Collies stare, circle and herd. Walks are in the rate, and the grass field and large fenced areas give room to run. Extras like a Happy Lick Mat at $4.99 or a Happy Pupsicle at $7.99 are a way to give a clever dog something to do.
Sound, motion and nerves
Some collies fixate on moving things. Dogs see neighbors through the fence, so if yours gets wound up, say so at drop-off and staff can help.
Mind games
Most Border Collies enjoy something to work on. A Happy Lick Mat is $4.99 and a Happy Pupsicle is $7.99, both on the extras menu; ask at check-in.
Eye and motion
A collie may stare at a moving dog or a passing car. If yours fixates, let the staff know at drop-off so the walks can be planned.
What a stay costs
A 7-night stay in Business Class is 7 x $59 on the 2026 rates. A second dog from the same home is $50, and 14 nights or more is $53 a night; active military families pay that same reduced rate (the rate sheet does not list the two as combining; call 707-678-6600 to confirm).
Heat and records
A working dog will push on in 95 degrees; staff steer play to cooler hours (about 100 days a year hit 90 at Vacaville, per NOAA). Rabies, distemper/parvo, Bordetella and canine influenza records must be good through the last day, and your dog should be 16 weeks or older before the first day.