Border Collie

How are Border Collies, one of the smartest of breeds, also one of the most frequently abandoned to shelters? That’s easy. Border Collies, like all thinking dogs, need lots of work to do. In addition, Border Collies are active dogs, so they need work that is physically demanding in order to be fulfilled. Without stimulating, physical work, Borders become neurotic, barky, or snappy. No family wants a neurotic snappy dog, so the unexercised, unstimulated Border Collie is soon abandoned.

How could this scenario of Border Collie abandonment be different? Perhaps all Border Collies should come with a sign around their neck that says, “I take as much energy and time as a child.” This shouldn’t frighten potential pet owners, just help them be realistic before they bring a Border Collie home.

It’s not necessary to be a farmer and have sheep to make a Border Collie happy. Folks living in town can be equally successful if they develop serious exercise regimes. Some jog with their Border Collies to work. Others go home at lunch and run around the yard with the dog. On the weekends, many Border Collie families include agility training, fly ball, dog park running, or swimming to keep their pet active.

Just as providing activity is essential for Border Collies, it’s essential to feed them properly. Think of what happens to kids that go to the mall and eat lots of sugary things—they run around without control. Dog foods with simple carbohydrates (flour, corn meal, dextrose, propylene glycol) affect dogs in just the same way. Excitable, active Border Collies on these foods do not behave properly. Feed Border Collies, and any dog that is not behaving in an ideal fashion a natural diet. Natural diets are high in protein and contain whole grains and vegetables. Either make your own, or use a food from a well respected company, such as Azmira. Add Omega 3 fatty acids to further strengthen the brain.

Families that are successful with Border Collies will tell you it is all worth the effort; Border Collies are the most rewarding of all breeds to work with.