You’ve decided that it’s the right time to get a new dog, so now it’s the time to consider which is the correct breed for the family. How much time do you have to walk them daily? How much time for training a new puppy? Any time for puppy classes and socialisation? Do you want a puppy from a breeder or a rescue dog? This is an important question to consider as it depends on your lifestyle as to what would be the best fit. It is important to remember that puppies which are kennel club registered will have been health tested against registered schemes. Remember too, that rescues may have a limited history.
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Border Collies
They were originally bred to work sheep and cattle and often still perform this task on working farms daily. Originally used to working on hills and mountainous terrain, they are agile and speedy when running. They are a medium sized breed that can live in towns or in the countryside but need access to a large garden during the day. They come in a variety of colours, but all have the same driven temperament and are eager to learn. Also, they need regular grooming, as they do shed fur and it can easily get matted and dirty. And they are a sensitive breed so gentle calm handling, especially when training, is important.
It is also worth noting the average lifespan is over 12 years. Don’t forget the cost implications of owning a medium breed dog are higher than a small dog. The food, flea and worming products need to be factored into monthly costs and annual costs include vaccinations and other checks.
Intelligence and exercise
Border collies are a highly intelligent breed and are therefore well suited to a working environment. However, they can live as pets, but need to use their brains daily. It’s a good idea to start them with regular sessions of agility, flyball, or even training lessons to allow them to get mental stimulation which is as important as physical stimulation. Exercise needs to be more than 2 hours per day in order to keep them physically fit. If they do not get enough exercise, they can gain excessive amounts of weight but also it can lead to some behavioural problems. Playtime at home should be on top of this as well, to keep them stimulated, and this can include puzzle toys, fetch and other games.
Potential Problems:
Of course, there are always potential issues with any breed. In Border collies, particular points to be aware of include:
Behavioural issues
It is important to understand the problems the breed encounters as well. Anxiety or other forms of behavioural problems are common in the breed; which mostly stems from a lack of stimulation or socialisation. This leads to frustration and then it can develop into major problems if left untreated. It is vital to consult your vet for advice and recommendation of clinical animal behaviourists at the earliest sign of any problems.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy can be seen in border collies, and this leads to seizures (fitting) which can start in dogs as young as six months of age. If these occur, then it is important to visit your vet for a full examination and any relevant tests. Depending on many factors, medication may be required lifelong to ensure a normal life.
Weight gain
As training of a dog usually involves using treats as a reward, if this is alongside your dog not getting enough exercise then they will become overweight. Although this is moderately uncommon in collies, it definitely isn’t impossible so be aware! It is important to measure food out according to the correct life stage and age.
When considering your next dog to get, please speak to your vets for advice on suitable breeds, they will potentially know local breeders and can give lots of helpful tips. If thinking of a rescue border collie then definitely ask the rescue of the dog’s past history, whether they are good with children or with other dogs, and what training they have had. Always remember that a dog is a big commitment and lifestyle change for their lifespan. But the impact they can have on your life is worth it.
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