Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Border Collies are very active dogs and must have a job to do to make them feel like a valuable member of the family. Do not expect your Border Collie to just sit around and be a couch potato or sit quietly in the backyard when you do not have time for them. They will become destructive and even nuisance barker when they do not have a job. The possibilities are endless when it comes to activities for Border Collies! Check out several different options before you decide which activity to jump into.
Many people do not understand what flyball actually is. It is a relay race for dogs where two teams of four dogs race down a lane, jumping over hurdles and grabbing a ball at the end of the lane and then racing back to the beginning so the next dog can go. When you first see dogs competing in flyball you will be amazed at how fast they actually move down the racing lane. Sometimes dogs will have a natural propensity for flyball while others will really have to work to become competitive. Spend some time watching flyball competitions and talking with people who have been competing for a while before you jump in and start training.Â
Agility is a fast-paced activity that is physically demanding for you and your Border Collie. You will be required to quickly move through an obstacle course, guiding your dog through each obstacle as quickly as possible. It does take great dedication to train for competitive agility. If you are not sure you want to compete in agility, set up a small agility course in your backyard or find a local dog park with agility equipment and give it a try. If you decide this is something you want to pursue, find a dog club that offers agility training and go check it out. Be patient with your Border Collie and over plenty of encouragement and rewards while working through the course.Â
Disc dog challenges are a great way to burn excess energy and keep your dog excited to play games. In disc dog, you and your Border Collie will work as team with you throwing the disc and your dog catching it. Disc dog can either be choreographed freestyle catching or distance catching. Both are challenging and fun to participate in. Training for disc dog challenges can be done in your backyard as long as you have plenty of room to run and throw the disc. This is an outdoor activity, so you will need good weather to train.Â
Herding trials are actually the ideal activity for Border Collies; however, these trials are not necessarily for everyone. It can be pricey to compete in herding trials and it does take a great amount of commitment for your dog to be competitive. All herding trials are held outdoors in any type of weather, although, most herding trial organizers will postpone or cancel events when severe weather is in the forecast. Your Border Collie will use their natural instincts and have fun working livestock. This is a great way to wear them out so they are not hyperactive when at home.Â
Border Collies must have an outlet for all the energy they possess. Finding the right activities to keep them healthy and happy should be relatively easy. There are so many different options for your Border Collie and each one helps form a close bond between you. Expect to spend at least an hour each day engaged in some type of activity so your Border Collie can become a valuable and well-adjusted family member.Â