Some people believe that border collies are good candidates for first-time owners because of their easy-going nature and trainability. This means that there are so many options out there for you if you might be thinking a border collie is not for you. This means you need to exercise them a lot, either with other dogs or with humans. It is always better to start with some easy dogs to learn and adopt basic things. But he wasnt that way when I first got him. However, while the Border collie may be a good family dog, its not good for every family. WebYes, Border Collies can be great first-time dog owners. 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. If you answered no to most of these questions, then you might want to keep reading if you are still curious. Are Border Collies Good for First-time Dog Owners? They come from the region around the border between Scotland and England. They are also a very intelligent breed. Epilepsy is another common health issue that usually starts between 25 years of age and sometimes requires medication. I wonder if the high energy/ nature of the breed is waning because breeders are choosing more chilled, easy going parents for their pups? To understand what makes collies tick and whether they may fit into your life, we need to go back in time a few hundred years! Do they usually like cats because we have a senior cat who isnt afraid to smack the dog in their face. Even for a first-time dog owner, Border Collies are incredibly easy to train for herding or just for obedience. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. ), see this article I wrote about eating rocks, dirt, and poop, article I wrote about how picky Border Collies are, Border Collie Hair Care (Complete Grooming Guide! The Truth about Attachment and Loyalty in Border Collies! Currently, there is no solid scientific evidence on the difference between male and female Border Collie temperament. They also have strong jaws that help them catch their targets safely; this makes them great for hunting small animals like Rabbits or game birds such as Quail. Office Friendly. Collies require a specific positive training approach and they can suffer from traits that are difficult to train out of them without in depth knowledge of the breed, such as chasing cars and nipping. Featured Image Credit: L.A.Kennedy, Shutterstock, What Smells Deter Cats from Peeing? These dogs have thick necks that give them extra stability when chasing or retrieving objects. A Border Collie is suitable for a first-time owner who provides adequate exercise, attention, and the love that the animal requires. They can also get mental stimulation from toys made specifically for this. Let's explore if Border Collies are one-person dogs and are they loyal? The latter is the fluffy, Lassie-like collie, whereas the former has a sleek, short coat. Start teaching your pup basic training commands at three to four months old. On the internet I read that this breed needs a lot of time outside. So the border collie will be my first dog but my wife had a huge sheep dog when she was young. PetKeen.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Collies are prone to suffering separation anxiety and can become distressed if left alone for long periods. We are looking to get a Border Collie pup after Christmas. I dug in a little further and here is what I found out. Border Collies are intelligent dogs that will respond to training from a very young age. United Kingdom. Shes the most chilled creature I ever seen. With proper training by an experienced owner, they can make a good family pet. They have an inherited instinct to do so because they are designed to work with one person as a team. 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. It is essential to be aware of any health issues that your dog may be predisposed to so that you can be educated and prepared. These include: Destructive behavior such as chewing or digging, especially when left alone. Equally, there is nothing worse than owning a working breed if you are just looking for a companion for casual park walks. Yes, Border Collies can be great first-time dog owners. Read more here. 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. In addition, you should add some outdoor activities, like playing frisbee, fetch and other sports to help them live happily. A Border Collie may be suitable for you if: A Border Collie may not be suitable for you if: Border Collies make amazing pets. But many owners also say that their Border Collie still has a great quality of life in a flat with a nearby park. Border collies Consider different activities, exercise options, and plenty of mental stimulation to keep your Border Collie happy. sometimes they can be too smart for their own good! You will often see them in dog competitions, agility courses, and sheepdog trials. 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. They can get this from learning new commands, tricks, or other working tasks. The Border Collie is very intelligent. There are so many breeds of dogs out there it is crazy to think of. He's originally from Ontario, Canada and his breeder is from England. First-time owners can own a Border Collie if Is a Border Collie easy to train for first-time dog owners? My border collie mix (BC and red heeler) is very chill. Border Collies are working dogs, they need a job to do! They have a good deal of herding instinct, which means they need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise each day in combination with training. One of the main reasons I wanted a dog was for the soft, warm, furry cuddles. How much exercise does a Border Collie need? 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. 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. However, if you know the basics about keeping a dog as a pet and love to know more, things will be quite easy for you to manage. 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. I still walk him every morning and play ball in the afternoons, but I have never had a problem with him being destructive. No . But whether you have experience with dogs or not, you can get this breed only if you put in the effort. The truth of the matter is, ANY dog can bite. If you arent confident in your dog training abilities and able to be an assertive yet loving pack leader in your collies life the smart Border Collie will pick up on that quickly and take advantage of you in a heartbeat. My collie is one of the most affectionate, caring, and friendly dogs I have ever seen. Characteristics of the Border Collie. Great jobs for your Border Collie include water games, puzzle toys, and licking mats. Border In addition, pets with diarrhea or other intestinal illnesses may not be able to make it outside fast enough. Are you ready to have a dog that needs to be constantly challenged? Crate training them, playing music while you are gone, and getting another dog are three great ways to help alleviate their stress while you are not at home. *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. As mentioned before, this could be a park, your yard, or even a field. So, if you are a first-time owner, then this is probably not the breed for you. Border collies make a wonderful companionship in which they love to be with you shoulder to shoulder. Are Border Collies Outside Dogs? Unlike cats where there are less than 75, there are almost 400 breeds of dogs. Which dog is best for first time owners: Doberman Pinscher vs Border Collie? 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. I wonder if its possible to see a quiet personality in a pup before they leave the breeder? Border Collies originate from the border of Scotland and England and have been used for herding livestock. Training tips concerning attachment are provided. WebBecause they are so intelligent, they need challenges and puzzles. Collies have an ability to focus (almost neurotically) on the one thing. They are often highlighted in movies like Animal Farm and Snow Dog. Its no wonder that a lot of people would think about getting a Border Collie when they decide to get a dog. Its a big commitment. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. In a nutshell, no. As they are smart, they need activities that need some mental effort too. Your Border Collie will be a part of your family, and it will be a top priority to keep it safe and healthy. (myth Busting!) Where Do Border Collies Come From? Since they are herding dogs, border collies are full of energy. Border Collies are intelligent, energetic dogs with a strong work ethic, so they are not usually recommended for first-time dog owners. Border collies are often cited as the most intelligent breed of domestic dogs. My partner did have Yorkies but nothing bigger and Ive never had a dog, and I must say were happy and loving our decision. Border Collies must begin training as soon as possible because they may become destructiveif not given enoughmental stimulation. Can Border Collies Swim? Lets explore a few reasons below why collies generally dont make good first dogs. In an active family context, this means they need a good amount of mental stimulation, plenty of attention and enough physical activity and daily exercise outdoors. 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. They are widely popular as a working dog and are frequently used by farmers, shepherds and ranchers. Dealing with a highly intelligent breed means theyre relatively easy to train. Its crucial, especially for a first-time owner, to research positive training techniques and consider investing in training classes. The average adult dog should be allowed to relieve itself at least 3-5 times per day. 1. Because theres two of us this means we devote 1:30hs each per day (when we are time restricted) and up to 5 during non busy days (weekends, holidays). But since the breed is so intelligent, dont be surprised if your Border Collie teaches themselves to unlock the gate or climb over the fence. But every online search for their personality says the same thing these dogs needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation. This type of outdoor lifestyle gives Border Collies a lot of exercise per day but they may require extra socialization time. Are Border Collies good for first-time owners? A dog can get plenty of exercise through regular walks, proper socialization and positive training. However, if you lead an active lifestyle and regularly go hiking, running or cycling and can spare some additional time for grooming then a rough collie could just be your perfect first dog. Do you have the patience to wash and dry your rough collie after every muddy walk? Border Collie Hair Care (Complete Grooming Guide!). They are extremely clever, can easily figure out how to open a door and when it comes to training, they are an absolute joy. Wherever I go, my beloved collie Luna is never far behind!Learn More about me and Luna's story on the about page! When Border Collie puppy starts to go potty, praise it for doing its business. Unfortunately, because theyre so focused on their people, Border Collies are another dog breed that might be at a higher risk of developing separation anxiety, says Burch. These dogs are intelligent, trainable and have many good attributes as a family pet. This breed is characterized by its high drive and intense energy levels. Check out our Mental Stimulation Ideas For Collies article for some top tips. 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. Whether you have concerns about your dog, cat, or other pet, trained vets have the answers! 10 Training Tips! Sometimes collies are just too focused for their own good and run after their much loved ball with no regard for their own wellbeing. Im willing to put in the exercise, both mental and physical for the dog and training etc. As soon as your Border Collie puppy finishes eating take it to the toilet spot and use the words go potty. trainingbuster.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.com. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. I mainly want a running partner and someone to cheer me up on my bad days. This is because they often do not realize the Border collies can be great for first-time owners who have a lot of time to devote to their dog! They are perfect for herding dogs. My boyfriend and I lives in an apartment with 2 stubborn male cats in Den Haag. Collies are difficult dogs to live with an need a lot of training and exercise. Good luck! WebA bright, ingenious breed, the Border collie is the perfect dog to be a pet. They also need mental stimulation. This dog is high maintenance it needs training, stimulation and plenty of exercise. This is because it is in their nature as a herding breed to bark commands to the livestock and bark to get attention from their owners. Like other working dog breeds, border collies have some unwanted characteristics that can be trained out over time. Can Border Collies Live In Apartments? We want to train the BC to do some tricks and simple commands but we dont know if the BC would like the smaller house we live in? Border Collies are intelligent and trainable. So I took that as an advantage. Yes, Border Collies can be great first-time dog owners. Hi! They require constant work and care to live their best lives. Whether you own a toy poodle, standard poodle, or the larger version, this breed is both hypoallergenic and scores low in the odor department. 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. Knowing about their temperament, behavior, grooming and training requirements, and overall care requirements can help you decide if this breed fits into your lifestyle and if you can provide the best care for it. Essentially, theyre trying to herd you, and theyre mimicking the livestock herding behavior they were originally bred for. (The Dog Tired Truth Revealed! Are you considering getting a border collie? Still, some people would insist that they have always left their collies that long without issues. Naturally, by long-term periods, its implied that the period is up to 8 hours a day and not more. If you are thinking about getting a Border Collie as your first dog, you should learn everything you can about them. The Border Collie has large ears that sit flat against the dogs head. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Collies really are not an ideal dog breed for first time dog owners, unless your lifestyle is already suited to a collies requirements. 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. Blu is a relatively small Borgi even by Border Collie Corgi mix standards. So, are Border Collies good for first-time owners? This will typically result in a dog with short legs and a sturdy body. Are you ready for many walks a day (Or a good amount of time spent playing the backyard)? They can develop separation anxiety or even be destructive. In this article, were going to look at exactly what it takes to look after a collie, and what type of person a collie is suitable for. Basic training is easy, but to train your border collie-specific commands and tricks, you require insight into their psychology and behavioral response. Instead, you will need to indulge them in an interesting activity that will consume their body and mind. Read more about the origins of Border Collies in our feature article here. Border Collies are not usually recommended for first-time dog owners. Then there are dogs like border collies that need lots of exercise and stimulation. One of the smartest Border Collies ever, named Chaser has learned over 1000 words including distinguishing nouns and verbs. However, if this is your first time owning a dog, you may be wondering if a Border Collie is still the best choice. They are a large, boisterous, and playful dog with the energy to keep going all day long. But if you are the type of person who gets frustrated easily or wants a low-maintenance dog, we would not recommend getting one! 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? 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. No, inexperienced owners might find it too much of a challenging breed. Border Collies need a minimum of 2 hours a day of exercise. As much as you can give them. Border Collies were originally bred to herd sheep. Thats because they are incredibly smart, easy to train, and among the most beautiful of dog breeds out there. There is no point getting a lap dog if you plan to take it hiking. 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. Which one fits better in the office? While there is no cut-and-dried rule for the maximum amount of time you can leave your collie alone at home, you must not leave your dog for 10 or 12 hours. Dogs in general are a lot of work, but certain breeds require more time and attention than others. Border Collies are best for people with large yards, or lots of property where they can run freely and explore. 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. Most Border Collies love their crates as they see it as their very own den. Learn more. Here, you will find the answer to the question, are border collies good for first-time owners?. How to prevent separation anxiety, How To Care For Your Collie: Nine Important Tips For New Collie Owners, How to Teach your Collie to Give You A Kiss (Easy Trick! They are full of energy and do wonders as athletic and acrobatic dogs. Without adequate exercise your collie may develop behavioral problems. Whether its because of the lurid, neon colors they are available in or because it appeals to their centuries of experience in tracking that one stray sheep, many a Border Collie owner will tell you about what a Frisbee fanatic their Border Collie is. This is happening as a result of more and more people moving to urban areas. I honestly hate to leave them because thats exactly what I want. But theyd be just as happy outside if this is possible. 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. While some Border Collies have great off-switches in the house, others will constantly be looking for a job to do. Establish a firm leadership in your home from the moment your dog steps inside your house. Border Collies have a lot of appeal to potential dog owners. Is this bad? Border collies possess a near-magical ability to demolish houses, destroy yards and chew through furniture, all before breakfast. CL. But many forget that they also love cuddling and bonding with their owners, making them the best of both worlds! You can train this out of them with proper socialization and obedience training. At Muddy Noses you'll find articles covering care, training, exercise, puppies, first time owners and breed information. Your pet should go for regular checkups with your veterinarian, and pet insurance is worth considering. 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. WebOr, check out our article myth busting whether Border Collies are good for first time owners. Pet Keen is reader-supported. As mentioned in the linked video, they could decide to train you, too. Comment below with any questions you have! Their coat is a little different from a sheeps, though. As a Chewy Associate The Collienois earns from qualifying purchases. Highly intelligent and highly trainable, the affectionate and energetic Border Collie almost always comes out on top when it comes to doggy smarts. Well, the biggest reason. Are you ready to have a dog that is always ready to work? The border collie is a dog breed that got its start in the United Kingdom. Here are some essential tips for keeping your new canine safe: Nicole is the proud mom of 3 rescue fur babies, Baby, a Burmese cat; Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway; and Mac, a Lab/Mastiff. They come from a cross between a Roman breed and a Viking breed. ), Samoyed Dog Breed Guide (Quick Links and Information), Require at least 2 hours a day of exercise, fetch things (newspaper, slippers, people), You are a highly active person who loves to exercise with your dog, You have a lot time to invest in learning how to train and care for your dog, You can be creative in coming up with jobs for your dog, You have a desire to teach your dog a lot of cool thing. If you lead a very active lifestyle that you can incorporate your Border Collie into then this may not be a problem for you. Sorry for the late response. 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. They require constant work and care to live their best lives. But even without that instinct to herd, Border Collies may also nip just because theyre bored, playing, afraid, trying to dominate, or just for your attention. Contact, How To Prevent Separation Anxiety in Collies, Can collies be left alone? WebAre Border Collies Good for First-Time Owners? Continue reading to find out if getting a Border Collie as your first dog is right for you!