Border Collie As A Pet: Behavior and Health

As long as they receive considerable activity and attention on a daily to keep them occupied and ample exercise, border collies can live and deal happily with other dogs, and children. However border collies are can get aggressive with other dogs of the same sex, unfortunately should not be trusted with small non-canine pets, cats being the possible attention. I know both of our collies will tear after any cat that dares to trespass in the yard! Now, one of them is primarily interested in chasing and barking, but I have no doubt our younger one would destroy any cat it managed to corral. These dogs must be properly socialized as puppies or else disastrous socialization and character flaws may manifest themselves. Ever wonder why you see so many in the rescue leagues? These are INTENSE dogs. A good owner gives their dogs a daily diet of frequent and ongoing attention, extensive daily exercise, and a job to do. I can't stress the job part enough. A non working border collie, or one that does not get any physical excerise can quicklu develop bizarre and destructive behaviors, sometimes a new mania every week it seems! Farmers and canine sports enthusiasts are way into border collies. It is not surprising that at competitive levels in various sports such as: agility skills, obedience, and sheepdog trials, the Border Collie is represented among the leaders in the sport. A permanent will to please is ingrained in these dogs. As this breed lives to serve, they are awful pets for people who have cannot spend a lot of time with them. Would-be owners looking for a family dog as a pet should really look elsewhere for calmer breeds. Border collies can become neurotic if they are left alone for long periods. This breed is known as an escape artist. Border Collies can get snappish with kids or strangers due to their strong herding instincts. The dominance level of these dogs can vary considerably. As far as health problems or issues go, border collies are fairly robust, sturdy canines but are in fact prone to hip dysplasia, PRA, epilepsy, deafness, and a strange eye problem called Collie Eye anomaly. Forget about a border collie if you live in an apartment. These beasts require acreage both indoors and out. It goes without saying that keeping one chained in the backyard all day serves zero positive purpose and is a terrible waste. When we talk about excercise, we mean that these dogs need more than simply physical exertion. They enjoy tasks. Fetch, frisbee, stick, chasing geese, herding sheep etc, are what these dogs like to do AT ALL TIMES. They have no off button, and live at least 12 to 15 years without really mellowing out, so consider yourself warned! With regard to grooming and bathing, their coats need regular combing or brushing. Long haired border collies require more attention due to their soft and dense undercoat. They dislike shampooing or bathing. Do it infrequently, or only when necessary. Unlike the reputation of the long haired classic collie, border collies are only average shedders. As these dogs spend a lot of time outdoors, check them often for ticks around the ears and all over their coat.