50 Questions Border Collie Owners Ask

1. How often should I groom my Border Collie?
   Border Collies have either smooth or rough double coats that need brushing 2-3 times per week. During shedding seasons (spring and autumn), more frequent brushing helps manage loose fur and prevent matting. A high-quality raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic can improve coat condition and reduce excess shedding.

2. Do Border Collies shed a lot?
   Yes, they shed consistently year-round, with heavier moults in spring and autumn. Regular grooming and a nutrient-rich raw diet support coat health and reduce shedding.

3. How much exercise does a Border Collie need each day?
   At least 1.5 to 2 hours daily. Border Collies are highly energetic and need physical and mental stimulation. Without enough activity, they can become bored and destructive.

4. Are Border Collies prone to health problems?
   They can be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Epilepsy

• Collie eye anomaly (CEA)

• Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) 

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Border Collie?
   12 to 15 years, depending on health, genetics, and lifestyle. A natural, minimally processed diet contributes to long-term wellbeing.

6. How often should I bathe my Border Collie?
   Every 6-8 weeks, unless they roll in something particularly messy. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, so stick to a gentle, pH-balanced dog shampoo.

7. How do I clean my Border Collie’s ears?
   Check ears weekly for dirt or signs of infection. Clean gently with a vet-recommended ear cleaner and cotton pad, not cotton buds.

8. How do I know if my Border Collie is overweight?
   You should be able to feel their ribs and see a visible waist. Poppy’s Picnic offers portion guides to help maintain a healthy weight.  Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What are the best toys for Border Collies?
   They love toys that challenge them mentally:

• Puzzle feeders

• Tug ropes

• Fetch balls

• Interactive toys. Stuff toys with Poppy’s Picnic treats for added enrichment.

10. How can I keep my Border Collie’s coat healthy?
    Brush regularly, feed a nutrient-rich raw diet, keep them hydrated, and bathe only when necessary. 

Border Collie Behaviour & Temperament: 40 More Common Questions

11. Are Border Collies good with children?
    Yes, when properly socialised. They’re intelligent and gentle but can be intense. Teach children to respect their space.

12. Do Border Collies get along with other dogs?
    Yes, if well-socialised. They can be selective, especially if under-stimulated or anxious.

13. Are Border Collies easy to train?
    Extremely. They’re among the most trainable breeds. Positive reinforcement works best so use tasty rewards like Poppy’s Picnic treats.

14. Do Border Collies bark a lot?
    They can be vocal, particularly if bored. Training and exercise help manage excessive barking.

15. Can Border Collies live in flats?
    Yes, if given plenty of outdoor time and stimulation. They're better suited to active homes.

16. Do Border Collies like to cuddle?
    Some do, but most prefer to show affection through activity and play.

17. Can Border Collies be left alone?
    Not for long. They may develop separation anxiety. Gradual training and enrichment toys can help.

18. Are Border Collies hypoallergenic?
    No. They shed and produce dander, so may not be suitable for allergy sufferers.

19. How do I socialise my Border Collie?
    Expose them to various people, dogs, and situations from a young age. Reward calm behaviour with treats and praise.

20. Do Border Collies chase things?
    Yes. Their herding instincts make them chase cars, bikes, or animals. Training and controlled environments are essential.

21. Why is my Border Collie herding children or animals?
    It’s instinctual. Redirect with structured games and discourage it gently with positive reinforcement.

22. Are Border Collies good first dogs?
    Only for active, committed owners. They need time, training, and stimulation.

23. Do Border Collies get bored easily?
    Yes, they thrive on mental challenges. Use training games and enrichment feeders with Poppy’s Picnic meals.

24. Can Border Collies do agility?
    They excel at it. Their speed, intelligence, and responsiveness make them top agility competitors.

25. How do I calm my Border Collie down?
    Regular exercise, structured training, and mental tasks help reduce hyperactivity.

26. What are common behavioural issues in Border Collies?

• Nipping

• Barking

• Obsessive behaviours. Training, exercise, and diet play key roles in prevention.

27. Why does my Border Collie stare at me?
    It’s their way of focusing. They read your movements closely, especially during training.

28. Do Border Collies need a job?
    Yes. Jobs can be mental tasks, tricks, agility, or structured play. Keeping their minds busy is vital.

29. How do I stop my Border Collie chewing?
    Provide chew toys, training, and enough stimulation. Boredom often triggers chewing.

30. Why does my Border Collie follow me everywhere?
    They form strong bonds and want to stay close. Training and confidence building can reduce clinginess.

31. Is a Border Collie suitable for older people?
    Only if they’re very active or have support. They’re demanding dogs.

32. Can Border Collies be trained as therapy dogs?
    Yes, with the right temperament and training. Their intelligence makes them suitable for therapy roles.

33. What are signs of stress in Border Collies?
    Panting, pacing, yawning, lip licking, and avoiding eye contact. Address the cause and provide calm reassurance.

34. Why does my Border Collie dig?
    Boredom or instinct. Provide enrichment or designate a digging spot.

35. Why does my Border Collie nip ankles?
    Herding behaviour. Redirect with toys and reward non-nipping behaviour.

36. How do I stop my Border Collie from jumping up?
    Ignore jumping, reward calm behaviour, and teach an alternative like 'sit'.

37. Why is my Border Collie pacing at night?
    Could be anxiety, energy, or discomfort. Ensure exercise, feeding, and a calm bedtime routine.

38. Why does my Border Collie bark at noises?
    They’re alert dogs. Gradual desensitisation and positive reinforcement help reduce this.

39. How do I stop my Border Collie pulling on the lead?
    Use positive reinforcement and stop when they pull, reward when they walk calmly. Treats like Poppy’s Picnic help with focus.

40. How do I keep my Border Collie mentally stimulated?
    Use:

• Trick training

• Agility courses

• Enrichment feeders

• Interactive games

41. Can Border Collies live with cats?
    Yes, if introduced early and carefully. Their herding instinct may cause chasing at first.

42. How do I help my Border Collie with separation anxiety?
    Gradual training, calming routines, and enrichment toys filled with Poppy’s Picnic treats can help.

43. Can Border Collies adapt to a new home easily?
    With consistency, routine, and patience. Familiar items and steady feeding routines ease transitions.

44. How do I introduce a new baby to my Border Collie?
    Do it gradually. Let them adjust to baby smells and sounds, and reward calm behaviour.

45. Why does my Border Collie eat grass?
    It’s fairly common. Ensure they’re on a complete diet like Poppy’s Picnic and monitor for upset stomachs.

46. Can I take my Border Collie running?
    Yes, once they’re fully grown. They make excellent jogging partners.

47. Should I crate train my Border Collie?
    Yes, crates can be a safe space. Use positive associations and never as punishment.

48. How do I manage my Border Collie’s high energy levels?
    Structured exercise, play, and raw meals that support stable energy like Poppy’s Picnic help.

49. Why does my Border Collie howl?
    It could be communication, anxiety, or imitation. Identify the trigger and work on desensitisation.

50. What’s the best routine for a Border Collie?

• Morning walk or play

• Structured mealtimes 

• Mental training sessions

• Calm evening wind-down Border Collies thrive with predictability, purpose, and interaction.