If you’re looking for an energetic, fun and loyal medium-sized dog that’s great for families, then a Border Collie could be a perfect fit for you. Dog owners around the world adore this stunning herding breed, which was originally designed to herd sheep in the border counties between Scotland and England in the 1700s.
Border Collies make great pets, but they’re not for the faint-hearted. Renowned as the smartest breed of dogs, these happy herders require regular exercise and lots of stimulation to stay happy and stop them from becoming destructive and loud.
If you’re a new or potential Border Collie owner, then here are some fun facts you should know.
Border Collies Are High Energy
As a herding breed that was designed to undertake grueling work rounding up sheep and other livestock, Border Collies are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. If you don’t live on a farm with sheep, you can still own a Border Collie, but you need to make sure you give them plenty to do to keep them occupied. That might include participating in dog sports, such as agility training with them, or taking them out for lots of long walks through different areas. As well as exercise, Border Collies also need a nutritious diet to keep them healthy. Feeding them raw dog food from top brands like Southend Dog Training can ensure that
They Come In Almost Every Colour
Everyone’s seen the classic black and white Border Collie, but you might not know that there are actually many different colors available. In fact, Border Collies come in practically every color mixed with white. There are no solid color Border Collies, but they come in a range of different colors and coat patterns, including red and white, tricolor, merle, and even blue (which is actually more of a grey in real life). These stunning dogs come in so many colors, but they all shed a lot. There are two coat types: long or short. The short-haired Border Collies need less grooming than their long-haired counterparts, so if you’re concerned about grooming, consider looking for a shorter-haired variety when choosing a puppy or rescue dog.
These Dogs Love Their Families
Being a herding breed that spends most of the day taking instructions from its humans, Border Collies form very strong bonds with their families. They may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time, and this can lead them to become destructive or start barking frequently. As such, they work best for people who work from home or have their own business and can take the dog with them to work. Crate training a Border Collie as a puppy can be a massive help, as it can reduce stress if the dog has to be left for a short period.
Borders Are Just One Of Several Types Of Collie
When people talk about Collies, many people think immediately of Border Collies because of their distinctive looks and popularity, particularly in the UK. However, there are actually several other Collie varieties, including Rough Collies, Smooth Collies, Bearded Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs, among others. Each type is a separate breed and has its own unique characteristics, so if a Border Collie isn’t for you, you might be able to find another Collie that will fit perfectly into your home.
