If youre looking for a great companion and family dog, but you are unsure if you have the time to spend with your new puppy, this breed is probably not a good fit. They can also provide each other with much of their daily exercise as long as they are of a similar size. This article will help you make a good decision about adopting a border collie, or maybe not. Border Collie: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care - The Spruce Pets When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. The Border Collie Corgi mix can vary in size but usually theyll have the stout appearance of their Corgi parent. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'trainingbuster_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_2',142,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-trainingbuster_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');If you are an aspiring Border Collie owner, look into these games. There may be a potential danger, like adverse weather conditions. The Border Collie definitely isnt content to be stuck in a yard all day long. Where Do Border Collies Come From? Border Collies are known to herd other pets in the home and children. The dogs fur is typically dark on its body with lighter legs, head, underbelly and border region. My collie is one of the most affectionate, caring, and friendly dogs I have ever seen. This breed is characterized by its high drive and intense energy levels. Even if you dont have those many advantages, if youre willing to invest time and love and efforts, youll get a wonderful dog that will bond with you really strongly. Hi! Since they are herding dogs, border collies are full of energy. I have studied the traits and behavior of border collies to learn how they expect their owners to behave. So the border collie will be my first dog but my wife had a huge sheep dog when she was young. The average dog has the capability to learn around 165 words and signals. Are Border Collies Good For First-Time Owners? - Kids Love Pets It is also used to study and better understand you, in an attempt to anticipate your next move. It is usually present at birth and can be detected at 6 weeks. Even if they dont want to relax with you, theyll want to interact with you a lot of the time. Border Collies are best for people with large yards, or lots of property where they can run freely and explore. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. ie in the first 8 weeks? Are Border Collies Good Guard Dogs You have to be 110% committed to investing your time into training and exercising throughout their lifetime. Because of this, Border Collies are not suited for first-time owners who have allergies or are not used to or prepared for grooming and brushing the large dog. Therefore first time Border Collie owners with at least daily access to a good space shouldnt worry too much about amending their current living conditions. When looking after a dog, you must ensure you can provide your companion with the correct diet, grooming needs, and healthcare. Collies are not good for inexperienced dog owners, since they require a lot of training and exercise, and they can be prone to behavioral problems which have to be carefully managed. Some collies are fine with three 20 minute walks a day, while some need as much as a 6+ miles a day. Additionally, Thecollienois.com participates in various other affiliate programs (clickbank, CJ, shareasale, impact radius, partnerize, Chewy), and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. Like with everything, there are some pros and cons, which we will list for you. A Border Collie needs lots of activity, but not necessarily big yard. So a 3-month puppy needs 15 minutes of exercise up to twice a day. Good luck! Some dogs may feel intimidated by their herding behaviors or they just dont like another dog trying to control their movements. So, you must ensure you will be able to meet a collies demanding needs before deciding they are the right dog breed for you. If you have any questions, please let me know. They can develop separation anxiety or even be destructive. Yet they need lots of attention. A Border Collie will always seek to test boundaries. Copyright 2023 | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme, Border Collie spending their time outside. The positive in all this is that if a border collie gets the proper exercise/training, they can be beyond wonderful household dogs. Unlike cats where there are less than 75, there are almost 400 breeds of dogs. A Border Collie is an incredibly sensitive dog who will constantly listen to every word you say. PetKeen.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. As we mentioned previously, Collies never clock off. When competing in the official version of this young, emerging sport, Border Collies are tasked with herding light, constantly rolling balls similar to exercise balls that are much larger than themselves. Generally, these dogs are very obedient, and they need their owners command and acknowledgment most of the time. Border Collie I am not exercise person but i do cycling. This is because they often do not realize the amount of work needed in taking care of this breed. If you want to adopt a Border Collie, you have to ensure they get adequate mental and physical stimulation. Reproduction without authorization is prohibited.All trademarks are property of their respective owners.Privacy | It will take patience and obedience training to get them under control which first-time owners typically do not have enough experience of. Instead, you will need to indulge them in an interesting activity that will consume their body and mind. Many owners say that a Border Collie requires a house with an expansive yard, at the very least. The Border Collie has large ears that sit flat against the dogs head. As soon as your Border Collie puppy finishes eating take it to the toilet spot and use the words go potty. WebA bright, ingenious breed, the Border collie is the perfect dog to be a pet. Good luck! A good first dog should fit with your lifestyle. Are you ready for many walks a day (Or a good amount of time spent playing the backyard)? The most common issue is hip dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis. So I took that as an advantage. They have been a popular breed throughout history with Queen Victoria having a smooth collie among her many canine companions. They need to be taught to have good associations with other people and animals. You will need to spend a lot of time reading about border collies and observing them in order to know their psychological, behavioral, and physiological needs. Read more about Border Collie Barking Here. You must ensure you have a few hours spare each day to invest into training your collie so if you work long hours and like to hit the gym or grab a few drinks at a bar after work then a border collie will not be a good first dog for you. Affiliate Disclosure: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. Is this bad? Not good for first time dog owners. Dog breeds that can be left alone for long periods include Labrador and Golden Retriever, Beagle, Peekapoo, or Shiba Inu. A Border Collie may be challenging for a first-time dog owner, but with adequate training and care, it can become an extraordinary pet. But my nephew has one and when i visit him she just comes and sits next to me. Can Border Collies Swim? I wonder if its possible to see a quiet personality in a pup before they leave the breeder? I want to have a female border collie. Are border Collies good for a first time dog owner? : dogs - reddit Were also going to look at some of the training and exercise requirements for collies and think about what that means for a new dog owner. They were bred to herd sheep, and if not given enough exercise and meaningful tasks to do, they can be found herding any living thing around them including, cats, your children, or even you! As they are smart, they need activities that need some mental effort too. There is no point getting a lap dog if you plan to take it hiking. Border Theyre friendly with people and other animals, making them suitable family pets. Add to that how much they love running and theres no way were going to recommend them for first-time dog owners without hard backing boundaries! It says that you are willing to put in the time it takes to be a good dog owner. Staring is often used as a method to get something they want from you; such as some leftover food, to initiate play, or to get your attention. A Border Collie will not wander off as far as other breeds like a Terrier or Hound, but they can still easily jump out and even nip at passers-by, in an attempt to herd them. We get out at least once a day but usually more. Which dog is best for first time owners: Doberman Pinscher vs Border Collie? Unless you get a rescue dog that was already trained (housebroken for example), you might reconsider getting a Border Collie. If your dog keeps pooping in the house, they may have a health issue, or something might have changed in their routine, diet, or home environment thats causing the accidents. All Border Collie owners will tell you they are amazing dogs to have! Border collies are working canines and therefore need to be given a job every day; otherwise, they may turn to more destructive forms of entertainment. Border Collies although easy to train are very high-energy and need a lot of mental stimulation. They are extremely clever, can easily figure out how to open a door and when it comes to training, they are an absolute joy. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If your Border Collie pup tends to bark when left alone, try leaving the radio on for company. There isnt a set amount of exercise they need, but a good rule of thumb is that your puppy needs five minutes of exercise per every month of age twice a day. Your Border Collie will be a part of your family, and it will be a top priority to keep it safe and healthy. Always feed your Border Collie puppy at the same time each day so you know when it needs to go to the toilet. So, are Border Collies good first-time dogs? I believe another owner will be able to give Ollie a better life than I can. They do really well in active households and with experienced owners. This can include chasing flies, chasing shadows, or even incessant licking! These behaviors generally develop because a collies needs are not being met and can reduce the quality of your collies life. In a nutshell, no. I mainly want a running partner and someone to cheer me up on my bad days. Its also wary of strangers, making it a good family watchdog. Still, some people would insist that they have always left their collies that long without issues. Owning a Border Collie means that you are a responsible pet owner. (myth Busting!) Unless you are sure you have enough time to commit to exercising and training a collie then stay clear of this breed or be prepared for them to make your life a misery as they find the most outrageous (often highly destructive) ways to release their masses of excess energy. The average adult dog should be allowed to relieve itself at least 3-5 times per day. Collies are exceptionally demanding dogs to live with and have a lot more needs than other dog breeds. Border Collies for First-Time Dog Owners (Read This First!) In fact, the parent breeds arent a good Border collies are very passionate and energetic dogs. Are Border Collies Good Family Dogs? (For a House or Apartment) The best way is to just dive right in! Some people believe that border collies are good candidates for first-time owners because of their easy-going nature and trainability. Yes, border collies can be an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Collies love to spend time outdoors so if your hobbies already lend themselves to an outdoor lifestyle then a collie could be a perfect option to tag along with you on your adventures. But every online search for their personality says the same thing these dogs needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Border collies can be great for first-time owners who have a lot of time to devote to their dog! Border Collies Good For First Then there are dogs like border collies that need lots of exercise and stimulation. They require constant work and care to live their best lives. You can expect a bored Border Collie to chew things up, lick excessively, bark excessively, dig, get into and eat things they shouldnt (see this article I wrote about eating rocks, dirt, and poop), and basically cause destruction. We needed a smart dog that liked being taught commands and complex ideas, that liked running and exercise and which bonded strongly. While their past says they should be working dogs on farms, border collies have slowly made the shift into homes. This is because they are extremely intelligent dogs, who will quickly learn what is expected of them. When it comes to exercise, a Border Collie needs daily access to as large a space as possible. Contact, How To Prevent Separation Anxiety in Collies, Can collies be left alone? They are also sometimes stubborn, so training may be a challenge for novice owners. If you want to adopt a border collie, and you are confused if the two of you will make a good match or not, you are in the right place. Border Collies are working dogs, they need a job to do! These include: Destructive behavior such as chewing or digging, especially when left alone. You should consider all these conditions beforehand. United Kingdom. This is the reason poodles are one of the most popular dogs in the United States and the world over. If you dont have the time needed to keep your Border Collie happy you will start to see your Border Collie turn to destructive behaviors to keep themselves occupied. At Muddy Noses you'll find articles covering care, training, exercise, puppies, first time owners and breed information. Border Collie dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality. This is when problems might arise when they dont get the stimulation they need. One of the most distinctive features of the Border Collie is their long nose, which can be up to Are Border Collies One-person Dogs? if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'trainingbuster_com-leader-2','ezslot_10',166,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-trainingbuster_com-leader-2-0');But at any point, their centuries spent herding can take over and they could start to herd a person jogging past, for example, or a crowd of young children playing loudly. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship) and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' know, https://www.collieperfect.com/border-collies-good-for-first-time-owners/, https://www.thecollienois.com/dog-breeds/border-collie/are-border-collies-good-for-first-time-owners/, https://www.thepuppymag.com/are-border-collies-good-for-first-time-owners/, https://www.hepper.com/are-border-collies-good-for-first-time-owners/, https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/border-collie, https://www.thesprucepets.com/best-dogs-for-first-time-owners-4153979, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/border-collie/. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. WebBecause they are so intelligent, they need challenges and puzzles. Your Border Collie will be happiest when their day is full. They were first developed to be a working dog made for herding sheep and other livestock on farms. We also have the advantage of living in a dog friendly area, so teaching her indoor manners when going for dinner, etc., has become our favourite sport, and its adequately challenging for her as well! These dogs have few behavioral problems when well-trained and learn easily. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. They come from a cross between a Roman breed and a Viking breed. If not, then you may want to consider another, easier breed at first. But when you put in the effort, they can be the best dogs you will ever own. You will need to be prepared to spend a lot of time playing with teaching and coming up with activities for your Border Collie to do. Collie On the internet I read that this breed needs a lot of time outside. Yes, Border Collies can be great first-time dog owners. IF you can do all these things for them, with a little additional research, a collie could be a good fit in your life and home.Here is some more general advice for first-time dog owners. However, the adaptable, easy-to-train Border Collie is now increasingly being adopted by active families as an energetic pet who suits their lifestyle. They are also very intelligent and need much more mental stimulation as well. Several border collie owners have shared their best and worst experiences with me, which Ive jotted down to explain how you should behave with your adorable collies. He's originally from Ontario, Canada and his breeder is from England. Establish a firm leadership in your home from the moment your dog steps inside your house. But is a Border Collie the Whether you have concerns about your dog, cat, or other pet, trained vets have the answers! Border collies are full of energy and need much more daily exercise than most other dog breeds. HOWEVER, if you are active and know you can step up to this and give them the attention, fresh air, and life they deserve then there is no reason this should not be great for you and a Collie in need of a home and love.Just remember, Border Collies are some of the most active dogs out there, so really does depend on how much youre willing to put in. My partner did have Yorkies but nothing bigger and Ive never had a dog, and I must say were happy and loving our decision. But their incredible intelligence is also what makes playing with the Borden Collie so enjoyable. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'trainingbuster_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_15',162,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-trainingbuster_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'trainingbuster_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_16',162,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-trainingbuster_com-large-leaderboard-2-0_1');.large-leaderboard-2-multi-162{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}But many of the same hazards associated with your Border Collie spending their time outside can be observed indoors, too. But a Border Collie definitely needs a certain amount of space. If so maybe I shouldnt be put off getting one on the generalisation of the breeds original purpose? A: Border Collies are suitable for experienced owners. This makes collies a challenging breed to own for people who work long or irregular shifts. Ideally, someone who is very familiar with dog reactivity. Border Collies can double and triple that number. Wherever I go, my beloved collie Luna is never far behind!Learn More about me and Luna's story on the about page! Whether you are looking for a canine companion, a playmate for the kids, or an adventure buddy, there is a lot to consider before committing to a puppy. (myth Busting!) But it has to be a good fit for all concerned and should this new companion be a Border Collie? This will be shown as excessive barking, chewing on things, trying to show dominance, and having a lot of neurotic undesirable behaviors that will be hard to correct. The result is a pricey trip tot he vet. Some people love being challenged as it leads to in-depth learning. The eyes are usually a clear brown with a soft inner layer around the pupil; this layer gives them an almost milky appearance. Are Border Collies Good With Cats? They require constant work and care to live their best lives. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. You need to be creative with them when training! Yes, Border Collies make brilliant family pets, but will need a home with a large garden where they can stretch their legs regularly. If you combine this fact with positive and friendly training approaches, then youll soon see just how easy it is to house train your Border Collie. Obviously, having some If youre willing to put in some time and effort, though, you can have a truly devoted, loving, and fun-to-be-around companion for many years to come. Border collies require a lot of training but with this training they really can be perfect companions. They are very friendly and love their owners company. While they might not be the best dogs for first time owners, owners with experience can find them easy to train and eager to please!Which is better male or female Border Collie? This means you need to exercise them a lot, either with other dogs or with humans. Do Ferrets Need Vaccination Shots? It is always better to start with some easy dogs to learn and adopt basic things. While 1.5 to 2 cups of high-quality dog Although there are always exceptions to this rule, Border Collies, in general, do not like to cuddle. If first-time owners do decide on a Border Collie, it is important to understand the breed first before you bring your new family member home. No, inexperienced owners might find it too much of a challenging breed. Most herding dogs, like those mentioned above, will sometimes nip at a persons feet or heels. With proper training, exercise, and care, border collies can be the best dog you will ever own. WE have a good-sized backyard and are doing all the research possible to be prepared. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you and for your best friend. Hopefully, the article about are border collies good for first time owners above meets your needs, everyone has a better idea, please leave a comment below, all your suggestions help us create better and better articles for everyone. Border Collies are known to be highly active canines. And that isnt including mixes. That can also mean theyre strong-willed. link to Are Border Collies One-person Dogs? How much exercise do Border Collies need (puppies and adults) ColliePerfect.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. I still walk him every morning and play ball in the afternoons, but I have never had a problem with him being destructive. This is one of the reasons why they are not recommended for first time owners. But many owners also say that their Border Collie still has a great quality of life in a flat with a nearby park. WebYes, Border Collies can be great first-time dog owners. They will be loyal loving companions always at your side, but when it comes to sleeping and resting they generally prefer their own space. They will always want to round up anything and anyone who moves, and they may wander or roam, too, if they become very bored. Are you ready to have a dog that is always ready to work? Cheers. Just wondering if our house is the right fit for a BC! Think 30 minutes walking in the pouring rain is bad? The shepherds who use these dogs will find them to be excellent helpers in their work. I found a breeder and Im thinking of getting a border collie. They come from the region around the border between Scotland and England. Border Collies are workaholics and if not given work to do they will invent it, and believe me the jobs they invent for themselves will not please you. If you are out exercising and leading an active lifestyle more than you are sitting at home, and you can come up with sufficient activities to keep them occupied then a Border Collie could be great for you. This isnt as much of a problem as it may seem, as long as you are putting in the effort to give them the best life possible. Is Having a Puppy a lot of work? DO I REALLY WANT A BORDER COLLIE? If youre looking to get into agility training or just want a reliable and intelligent dog that will Shes a beautiful dog, very intelligent, great with his kids, and the perfect herding dog for his large property! WebWhat many people fail to realize, even long-standing Border Collie owners, is that the herding instinct is simply a modified version of the killing instinct of wolves. Border Collies are intelligent, energetic dogs with a strong work ethic, so they are not usually recommended for first-time dog owners. I fell in love with them. This will typically result in a dog with short legs and a sturdy body. It is a place they feel safe once they understand what the crate is for. Are Border Collies Good for First-time Dog Owners? The Truth! These dogs need plenty of exercise and mental enrichment to stay healthy and happy. A Border Collie is a large, strong dog with a short smooth coat that varies in color. Border Collie Hair Care (Complete Grooming Guide!). I also have a medium big backyard but behind my house there are terribly huge fields. Collies are built to run miles a day on a farm, so if they dont fulfill this urge, they can become distressed and frustrated. He is older now, but has always been that way. They can be introverted, independent, and sometimes aggressive to strangers for example with their juvenile nipping behavior. Because some say no to me. It also means you are a very active You will often see them in dog competitions, agility courses, and sheepdog trials. So, if you are a first-time owner, then this is probably not the breed for you. They are perfect for herding dogs. It is recommended by the American Border Collie Association that if you do decide to take on the care of a border collie, you have to commit to daily exercise and mental stimulation. The Truth about Attachment and Loyalty in Border Collies!