Border Collie

The Border Collie is a true canine rocket with an immense amount of energy, heart and a strong devotion to his family. He originated from the beautiful pastures on the border between England and Scotland, where he was an indispensable assistant in guarding the flock - and he still carries this instinct today. This is a puppy that needs a person with a lot of energy, time and love.

Basic features

• Size : Medium (25–30 cm tall, 13–22 kg)
• Colors : Most often black and white, other colors can also be used - as long as white is not dominant
• Coat : Medium length, waterproof, double coat (coarse topcoat and soft undercoat)
• Hair loss : Moderate, regular brushing recommended
• Lifespan : 12–15 years or more
• Suitable space : House with a garden, apartment with an active lifestyle, ideally – nature
• Litter: average 6 puppies

Character and character

The Border Collie is a gentle, loyal and extremely intelligent dog. He is infinitely devoted to his people, but often reserved with strangers. He has a strong herding instinct - this means that sometimes he will try to "put you (and the children!) in order". Never out of malice - always out of concern. Because he is extremely attentive and sensitive to his surroundings, he can be an excellent guard. However, he is not a fan of barking - he prefers to observe and react when necessary.

Activity

This is not a dog for lazy days on the couch (although he will like to do that sometimes - after long hours of activity). The Border Collie needs:

• Long walks
• A game that keeps his mind occupied (e.g. finding objects, learning tricks)
• Sports activities (agility, frisbee, dog sports)
  

Important : If he is bored – he will show it. Biting shoes, mattresses and furniture is not out of the question if he does not have another challenge.

Care and coat

• Brushing : Recommended daily, but at least 2-3 times a week
• Bathing : As needed
• Special care : Check ears (parasites may be hiding)

Health

Border Collies are generally healthy, but be aware of:

• Allergies (e.g. fleas)
• Epilepsy
• Deafness
• Hip dysplasia

Regular veterinary checkups and a healthy diet are the key to their vitality.

Education and learning

This is one of the most intelligent breeds in the world! It is happy to learn new tricks and commands, but it needs a structured routine. It is suitable for:

• Agility
• Obedience training
• Nose job
• Interactive games
  

It is suitable for experienced owners who know that training is not a one-time task, but a daily interaction.

Living area

The Border Collie is extremely adaptable, but always on the condition that he has enough physical and mental activity every day. Although he does well in an apartment or house, he will not be happy with a passive lifestyle - he needs a place where he can run freely, explore and do "dog chores". The ideal environment for him is a house with a fenced garden, or even better, a farm or an environment close to nature.

• Suitable for a house with a larger fenced garden
• It can also live in an apartment if it is active enough during the day.
• Not a dog for life on the couch or in a kennel without contact with people
• Enjoys free movement and the natural environment
• Living outside is possible, but only if there is enough company and stimulation

Is it suitable for your family?

• Best Matches With : Active owners, athletes, families with older children
• With children : Very protective and gentle, but due to herding instincts, supervision of interactions with younger children is recommended
• With other animals : There may be problems - due to instinct, he will try to "lead the herd", which is not always to the liking of other animals.