Border Collies require at least two hours of off-leash exercise every day and lots of daily mental stimulation to keep their minds healthy and avoid behavioral problems. If you are going to have your collie sleep outside make sure to provide them with a sheltered area to escape the elements. Still, some people would insist that they have always left their collies that long without issues. Featured Image Credit: L.A.Kennedy, Shutterstock, What Smells Deter Cats from Peeing? 1. If you take your dog on an extra muddy adventure, you can up the frequency (you dont want mud tracks all over your house! Even for a first-time dog owner, Border Collies are incredibly easy to train for herding or just for obedience. But either way, a Border Collie has a double coat this is an amazing waterproof and weatherproof type of fur that requires only a little basic care every once in a while. They can be introverted, independent, and sometimes aggressive to strangers for example with their juvenile nipping behavior. Border Collie-Dachshund mix combines the best of their parent Similar to Greyhounds, Whippets are a popular racing and hunting breed. No, inexperienced owners might find it too much of a challenging breed. It may not surprise you, then, to learn that the Border Collies coat is also just as suitable as a sheeps fleece for making wool. As they are smart, they need activities that need some mental effort too. Training tips concerning attachment are provided. Collie Being a first-time dog owner can be both exciting and daunting, and what makes an ideal breed for a first-time owner depends on various factors. Is Border collie ok with us ? Q: Is Border Collie good for first-time owners? Are you ready to have a dog that can be trained, trained, and trained even more? His experiences have given him an intimate understanding of the unique bond between humans and animals, and he's looking forward to sharing his knowledge and insights with readers. 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? 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. For more information about Border Collie shedding and grooming, you can read the article below. Can a Border Collie be a So yes, a Border Collie belonging to a first-time owner should be perfectly safe and happy living outside most of the time, unless a sound like fireworks or other Border collies were bred for their intelligence and obedience. Office Friendly. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. They do really well in active households and with experienced owners. As we mentioned previously, Collies never clock off. This can include chasing flies, chasing shadows, or even incessant licking! Border Collies Good for First They are intelligent, friendly, and active, but they also require a lot of attention and training. You can train this out of them with proper socialization and obedience training. 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, if you have the time, temperament and resources then there is no reason you could not bring a Border Collie home from your local shelter. They are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and trainability. Border Collies are not usually recommended for first-time dog owners. Border Collie Border Collies If aggressive behavior is displayed, it is likely that something else is up like an undiagnosed health condition or issue. They are also very loyal and will listen well to you when you train them. Border Collie Hair Care (Complete Grooming Guide!). In family situations this can cause problems when the chosen leader is absent. Then there are border collies that need constant training and reassurance that strangers are not threats. They can also become sensitive about their food possibly becoming very picky eaters (link to an article I wrote about how picky Border Collies are). If your Border Collie doesnt get enough exercise they can turn to destructive behaviors as well as whine cry and bark a lot! Welcome to Howling & Growling, my blog about all things collies. Affiliate Disclosure: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. Border Collies can also have a genetic eye disease called Collie eye anomaly, whichcan lead to vision problems or blindness. Collies require a minimum of two hours off leash exercise every single day and lots of mental stimulation too. Yet they need lots of attention. That duration is too long for a single stretch. Read more about me on the about page, or check out the categories below. The dogs fur is typically dark on its body with lighter legs, head, underbelly and border region. For new dog owners it may be a shock to learn just how much of a commitment a dog requires as you are responsible for their health, happiness and general wellbeing. Its also wary of strangers, making it a good family watchdog. Border Collies usually prefer to bond to one person. A Border Collie may be challenging for a first-time dog owner, but with adequate training and care, it can become an extraordinary pet. They are also sometimes stubborn, so training may be a challenge for novice owners. As soon as your Border Collie puppy finishes eating take it to the toilet spot and use the words go potty. Lets exclude the possibility that they will spend days being couch potatoes. Do Border Collies Like Water? If you do not want to spend a minimum hour per day simply maintaining a dogs coat, then its best to stay clear of rough collies. Collies are emotionally sensitive dogs and are happiest when they are sleeping close to their pack. 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. They require constant work and care to live their best lives. A lot. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. That can also mean theyre strong-willed. 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. This means that there are so many options out there for you if you might be thinking a border collie is not for you. From understanding their behavior to keeping them safe and playing with them they offer advice and research-backed guidance on all aspects of owning a Border Collie. I agree that they have a good temperament, and 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. These dogs are bred to work, and if they arent given a lot of exercises, they can become destructive. Indulge your border collie in fun activities to make them feel relaxed and happy. Without adequate exercise your collie may develop behavioral problems. Shes a beautiful dog, very intelligent, great with his kids, and the perfect herding dog for his large property! As a first-time owner, its important to be able to make sure you have the right animal for your household. Here is a list of jobs that other owners have given their Border Collies. Read our Guide to Exercising With Your Collie for some fun ideas how you and your collie can exercise together! Its basically an urban version of herding if you dont have any sheep handy. But is a Border Collie the Are Border Collies Good For First-Time Dog Owners? | Flipboard Urinary tract infections, cystitis (bladder inflammation), bladder stones, kidney disease, or arthritis or age-related incontinence could all be causes of house soiling in dogs. But every online search for their personality says the same thing these dogs needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Being sensitive and intelligent means pet parents need to make some extra effort to respond according to their psychology and behavior. In general Border Collies do tend to bark more than other breeds. They function best in homes that can provide them with the daily energy release they need. Border Collies will undoubtedly form a close bond with their owner, and while this is special and so rewarding, a first-time owner needs to know that this may cause them to be intolerant of being away from you. *Thecolienois.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees at no cost to you by linking to Amazon.com. Border Collie puppies tend to have a lot of energy and can exercise for an hour or more a day. If you are willing to invest a lot of time learning about the breed, how to keep it properly stimulated, and take classes on how to train and care for your Border Collie then they can be a great dog for you. He is older now, but has always been that way. Border collies are very demanding, sensitive, and active dogs. Is A Collie A Good First Dog? (For A New Dog Owner) At some point in everyones life, the prospect of becoming a dog owner ignites and becomes all-consuming as you decide which dog you should bring into your life. Yes . This article will help you make a good decision about adopting a border collie, or maybe not. Their short coat also means minimal shedding and grooming. During the weekend I would do many activities with her, just the week is a bit tight. Theyre not hurtling around the yard or dropping balls at my feet demanding a game. You can generally leave a Border Collie alone and unsupervised, for example, to lie on your front lawn peacefully with very little training. So a 3-month puppy needs 15 minutes of exercise up to twice a day. While some Border Collies have great off-switches in the house, others will constantly be looking for a job to do. This will typically result in a dog with short legs and a sturdy body. This is when problems might arise when they dont get the stimulation they need. Are Border Collies good for first time owners? (answered!) However, anecdotal evidence does suggest that male Border Collies tend to be easier to handle and are more devoted to their owners. Hi! Collies are some of the most common breeds in animal shelters due in part to new owners not being prepared for the vast amount of time and effort required to look after a collie. You can split it into morning and evening routines. Collies are high maintenance dogs. Because Border Collies are so smart they can sometimes turn into little Houdinis, figuring out how to escape any type of containment you may try to enforce on them. Let me ask you this. The truth of the matter is, ANY dog can bite. Howlingandgrowling.com 2021. I like the way they look and their intelligence. Collies need lots of puzzle toys and one on one time spent learning tricks or developing their training with their owner. He's originally from Ontario, Canada and his breeder is from England. At Muddy Noses you'll find articles covering care, training, exercise, puppies, first time owners and breed information. Could you give me some advice, We are getting a Labrador puppy in 2 months and we want to get a border collie pup soon after (4-6 months) but we have never had a dog before. Typically, this breed only needs to be bathed every three months or so. They are often the first in line on many intelligent dog breed lists. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Categories Border Collie, Medium & Large Breeds. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'trainingbuster_com-box-4','ezslot_3',138,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-trainingbuster_com-box-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'trainingbuster_com-box-4','ezslot_4',138,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-trainingbuster_com-box-4-0_1');.box-4-multi-138{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}It is possible for a Border Collie to have both a smooth or a rough variety of coats. United Kingdom. This breed can be intense, and it needs a lot of work Yes, Border Collies can be great first-time dog owners. 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. They are a demanding breed to train as they need consistent reinforcement which requires a lot of time and patience. As much as you can give them. Border Collies are generally healthy dogs, but like all dogs, they are predisposed to a few health conditions. If you think about their history, Border Collies were bred to run around the fields and work hard each day. Collies are constantly on the go and need an owner who can keep up with them! Consider different activities, exercise options, and plenty of mental stimulation to keep your Border Collie happy. Border Collies are best for people with large yards, or lots of property where they can run freely and explore. Rough collies require at least two hours of off-leash exercise every single day and lots of daily training and mental stimulation to prevent compulsive or destructive behaviors. Hi, I would love to get a Border Collie. Questions to ask your Border Collie breeder before your visit. We are looking to get a Border Collie pup after Christmas. 2. Instead, you will need to indulge them in an interesting activity that will consume their body and mind. Ollie is a sweet 2.4 year old border collie. Oh, I also live abroad so itll be an extra challengecant see what lies ahead. If you neglect to give your Border Collie the proper space, exercise, and stimulation that they need, they will seek it in destructive ways. Sometimes collies are just too focused for their own good and run after their much loved ball with no regard for their own wellbeing. This is not necessarily a hard and fast rule and you need to use judgement with this. With proper training, exercise, and care, border collies can be the best dog you will ever own. Our girl is now a full sized 16 month, brilliant dog. Maybe they are not as high energy as Im being led to believe? Because of their high intelligence, playing with the Border Collie is important to prevent boredom that leads to destructive behaviors or wandering. A Border Collie is a large, strong dog with a short smooth coat that varies in color. The result is a pricey trip tot he vet. Therefore, over time, breeders have developed a warm, insulating coat to rival the fleeces of the sheep the breed is known for rounding up. Most herding dogs, like those mentioned above, will sometimes nip at a persons feet or heels. Dogs, in particular, are one of the most popular first animals to keep as they are great companions for people of all ages plus they have a variety of other benefits too. Think that will never happen? They are so smart they figure out how to unlock and open doors, dig under or jump over fences! My brother has a Border Collie named Nico. As a general rule you shouldnt walk a Border Collie for more than 5-minutes every month of age. Shes the most chilled creature I ever seen. But at certain times of the year, like the start of spring and summer, a Border Collie will start to shed heavily. My boyfriend and I lives in an apartment with 2 stubborn male cats in Den Haag. Sadly, this isnt the best choice for first-time owners. 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. Border Collies are intelligent dogs that will respond to training from a very young age. They have an inherited instinct to do so because they are designed to work with one person as a team. west valley > general for sale - by owner QR Code Link to This Post. WebOwning a border collie is not easy. If you are a first-time dog owner with zero knowledge about pets, you can have a tough time dealing with this smart breed. But if you are the type of person who gets frustrated easily or wants a low-maintenance dog, we would not recommend getting one! Training Buster also participates in affiliate programs with Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. WebAre Border Collies good for first time owners? However, you will still have success playing modified versions of this casual game with much smaller balls like footballs or tennis balls. However, Border Collies are so intelligent that training may be more difficult. Order on Audible US or UK. Border Collies are intelligent, energetic dogs with a strong work ethic, so they are not usually recommended for first-time dog owners. You can take tests like this one to help you make a better decision. It is also used to study and better understand you, in an attempt to anticipate your next move. Use the search! 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. Border collies are full of energy and need much more daily exercise than most other dog breeds. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Collies are not a great choice for people who have never had a dog before. 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. It depends on their personality but it sounds like you should be fine if you have a big yard and are willing to take her out daily. They will not be happy with a 10 minute walk in the park to then come home and be expected to rest. 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. Most Border Collies love their crates as they see it as their very own den. Just coincidentally came across your site and Im glad I did! You need to consider how much time, attention, and patience you have while considering the overall needs of a Border Collie. Not all Border Collies bark a lot and you can train them not to bark, but it does take some time and effort. In spite of this, collies are a very rewarding breed to live with, and could be a great first dog for an owner who knows what they are getting in to and who has the time to properly train their new collie. There are dogs that need hardly any exercise and are happy laying around all day. Border collies possess a near-magical ability to demolish houses, destroy yards and chew through furniture, all before breakfast. There are so many breeds of dogs out there it is crazy to think of. If you use these links to buy something we earn a small commission. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Many owners say that a Border Collie requires a house with an expansive yard, at the very least. Are Border Collie-Dachshund mixes good for first-time owners? However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. Border Collie dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality. A fitness-loving, active first time Border Collie owner who has plenty of stamina will have lots of fun with a Border Collie. When training them they may respond to every little movement you make trying to out-think you and respond ahead of your next move. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Border Collie Border collies are intelligent and active, meaning they require a lot of attention and patience on behalf of their owners. 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. What do you think? They will not let you spend the whole day on a couch. Collies are prone to suffering separation anxiety and can become distressed if left alone for long periods. They can be stubborn and need people with some time and patience, and space in their lives. This is happening as a result of more and more people moving to urban areas. Border Collie Along with being sensitive and intelligent, they are loyal, energetic, alert, and obedient. Because some say no to me. WebAre Border Collies Good For First-Time Dog Owners? These dogs have few behavioral problems when well-trained and learn easily. There is no escaping, Border Collies can be considered high-maintenance dogs (lets be honest, most of us are high maintenance too!). This is because they often do not realize the amount of work needed in taking care of this breed. Is this bad? Do you have the patience to wash and dry your rough collie after every muddy walk? So yes, a Border Collie belonging to a first-time owner should be perfectly safe and happy living outside most of the time, unless a sound like fireworks or other animals frequently disturbs them and you. You dont necessarily need to live on a sheep farm, but you will need to be prepared with a list of jobs you can train your dog to do. Border Collies are working dogs, they need a job to do! Collies are difficult dogs to live with an need a lot of training and exercise. Before connecting with a Border Collie, you must assess your routine and schedule and ensure your dog wont be left alone for hours at a time. Some would say that Border Collies are not suitable for a first-time owner, while others say it is an excellent breed for a first-time owner. Are Border Collies Good Family Dogs? (For a House or Apartment) 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. 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? If you dont take the time to properly socialize your Border Collie while they are young he can become very shy, standoffish, and possibly reactive. Pros and Cons of Border Collies What is this? I have studied the traits and behavior of border collies to learn how they expect their owners to behave. 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. There are dogs that are friendly and trusting of any person, like golden retrievers. Owning a Border Collie means that you are a responsible pet owner. They are also very sociable and will work well with other animals such as sheep or cattle. Most owners of working Border Collies are happy with the dogs friendly natures and herding abilities. The eyes are usually a clear brown with a soft inner layer around the pupil; this layer gives them an almost milky appearance. Its more work than you think, even for older collies! WebAre Border Collies good for first-time dog owners? Like with everything, there are some pros and cons, which we will list for you. Yes, Border Collies can be great first-time dog owners. But they do not make a good apartment dog because they need a vast space to exercise and release their pent-up energy. Great jobs for your Border Collie include water games, puzzle toys, and licking mats. With some dedication and thought on your part you can have a well-adjusted, well-behaved, super loyal four-legged best friend. However, this is not always the case. Dog breeds that can be left alone for long periods include Labrador and Golden Retriever, Beagle, Peekapoo, or Shiba Inu. My collie is one of the most affectionate, caring, and friendly dogs I have ever seen. This can be very frustrating for new dog owners who are just learning how to train a dog. In a nutshell, no. After being bred exclusively to herd for centuries, they are also hard workers who never clock off which can be a problem. This breed has not earned the name of perhaps the most intelligent dog for no reason! They are perfect for herding dogs. Border collies are often cited as the most intelligent breed of domestic dogs. All Border Collie owners will tell you they are amazing dogs to have! Growing up exploring the English countryside with his canine companion, he now has a family of his own and enjoys watching his children interact with animals - including Border Collies. Manage Settings 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.