13 Things to Know Before Bringing Home a New Border Collie

Border Collies are a highly intelligent and active breed, known for their herding abilities and loyalty. They make great companions for active individuals or families with plenty of time to devote to their care. However, before bringing home a new Border Collie, there are several things to consider to ensure you are ready to provide the best possible home for your new furry friend. Below are 12 things to know before bringing home a new Border Collie, whether it be a puppy or a rescue.

1. Border Collies Require Plenty of Exercises

Border Collies are a high-energy breed that requires plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are natural herders and love to run, jump, and play. If you are not able to provide your Border Collie with plenty of daily exercise and playtime, this breed may not be the best fit for your lifestyle.

2. Border Collies are Highly Intelligent

Border Collies are known for their intelligence and ability to learn quickly. This means that they require plenty of mental stimulation and training to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. If you are not able to devote plenty of time to training and engaging with your Border Collie, this breed may not be the best fit for your lifestyle.

3. Socialization is Important

Border Collies require socialization from a young age to ensure they are well-adjusted and friendly with other people and animals. If you are not able to provide your Border Collie with plenty of opportunities for socialization, this breed may not be the best fit for your lifestyle.

4. Border Collies Can Be Reserved Around Strangers

Border Collies can be reserved around strangers, so it is important to socialize with them early and often to prevent fear or aggression toward new people or animals. It is also important to provide them with plenty of positive experiences with new people and animals to help them become comfortable and confident in new situations.

5. Border Collies Can Be Sensitive

Border Collies can be sensitive to changes in their environment or routine, and may become stressed or anxious if their needs are not met. It is important to provide your Border Collie with a stable and predictable routine to help them feel secure and happy in their home.

6. Border Collies Shed a Lot

Border Collies have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during the spring and fall. It is important to brush your Border Collie regularly to prevent matting and tangling, and to keep their coat healthy and shiny.

7. Border Collies Can be Prone to Certain Health Issues

Like all breeds, Border Collies can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems. It is important to research these potential health issues and to choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization that screens their dogs for these conditions.

8. Training is Essential

Border Collies require plenty of training and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. It is important to start training your Border Collie from a young age and to use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior.

Check out the Best 7 Online Dog Training Programs here.

9. Pet Insurance is Recommended

Border Collies can be prone to certain health issues, and accidents can happen at any time. Pet insurance can help you manage the cost of unexpected veterinary bills and provide peace of mind in case of emergencies. Before bringing home your Border Collie, research pet insurance providers, and policies to find the best fit for you and your furry friend.

Tip: This free tool lets you compare pet insurance prices across all the major carriers.

10. Border Collies Need a Job

Border Collies are a working breed and need a job to keep them happy and engaged. This can be anything from participating in dog sports such as agility or flyball to herding or even just playing fetch. It is important to provide your Border Collie with plenty of opportunities to engage in activities that satisfy their natural instincts.

11. Border Collies Thrive on Routine

Border Collies thrive on routine and consistency, and can become stressed or anxious if their routine is disrupted. It is important to establish a regular routine for your Border Collie, including feeding times, exercise times, and playtime, to help them feel secure and happy in their home.

12. Border Collies Are Affectionate and Loyal

Despite their reputation as high-energy and highly intelligent, Border Collies are also affectionate and loyal companions. They bond strongly with their owners and love to spend time with them, whether it be playing fetch or just snuggling on the couch.

13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!

Bringing home a new Border Collie can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new Border Collie here.

 

FAQ for First-Time Border Collie Owners

What kind of exercise does a Border Collie need?

Border Collies require plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. This can include activities such as running, hiking, playing fetch, participating in dog sports such as agility or flyball, or herding.

How often should I brush my Border Collie?

Border Collies have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during the spring and fall. It is important to brush your Border Collie at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling, and to keep their coat healthy and shiny.

What kind of training do Border Collies need?

Border Collies require plenty of training and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Positive reinforcement techniques are recommended, and training can include obedience training, agility training, or even herding training.

Do Border Collies get along with other pets?

Border Collies can get along with other pets if they are socialized properly from a young age. However, they may have a strong herding instinct and may try to herd other pets in the household, which can be problematic.

How can I provide mental stimulation for my Border Collie?

Border Collies require plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. This can include training, playing interactive games such as hide-and-seek or puzzle toys, or participating in dog sports such as agility or flyball.

Should I get pet insurance for my Border Collie?

Border Collies can be prone to certain health issues, and accidents can happen at any time. Pet insurance can help you manage the cost of unexpected veterinary bills and provide peace of mind in case of emergencies.

Do Border Collies make good family pets?

Border Collies can make great family pets for active families who have plenty of time to devote to their care. However, they may not be the best fit for families with young children or families who cannot provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Conclusion

Border Collies are a unique and intelligent breed that requires plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and training to thrive in a household. As a potential owner, it is important to understand the unique needs and characteristics of the Border Collie breed before bringing one into your home. By providing your Border Collie with plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and training, you can help them become a happy and well-adjusted member of your family.