Shollies are a hybrid breed of German Shepherds and Border Collies. Because of their parentage, they are renowned for their energy, dominance, intelligence, and obedience. Border Collies have long been known as a sheep farmer’s best friend, while German Shepherds are often found serving in the military and police forces. As a result, when you mix these breeds, you get a beautiful and loyal dog who will go to the end of the earth if that’s what you asked of them. However, their parentage also means that you always need to give them a job to do. Shollies aren’t happy to sit idle and do nothing if there’s something else they can be doing with their time. While you will have no trouble integrating them into family life, you may need a helping hand with their activity needs.
Both Collies and German Shepherds thrive on commands. They love having a job to do, doing what you say, then getting rewarded for it. Therefore, the best activity you can undertake with your Shollie is obedience training. Whether they are learning essential skills such as sit and stay, or more complex ones, you will find they love the opportunity to learn with you by their side. While obedience training can be a little bit expensive, it can be well worth it. Your dog can learn how to behave, get on with other dogs, and do as you tell them – all in a safe all-weather facility. Obedience training is an activity that takes around an hour a week and, for the Shollie breed, is straightforward.
The Snoot game is a relatively new phenomenon which is sweeping through social media. It involves your dog, your hands, and a lot of laughter. The Snoot game is perfect for dogs who know how to do nose work, but also dogs who don’t mind playing rough and tumble with their owner on occasion. This quick game is also a great distraction for your dog who may be barking at someone walking past, or taking part in naughty behavior. It takes only five minutes, the use of your hands, and you can do it inside, outside, or anywhere. You may not be able to do it more than a few times every day though without losing your dog’s interest.
Shollies are high-energy dogs that require a lot of physical activity every day. If you think you’ll struggle to fulfill that need through walks and attention at home, then a dog park visit can fill the gap. When you give your furry friend free reign through a dog enclosure with their best buddies, your hard work is complete. You can then take them home after an hour, and they’ll be ready for a nap. Trips to the dog park are the best activities for dogs, and they require minimal effort. You have to pack a leash, a toy, a waste bag and your dog, and you can then have fun at your local park for as long as you want.
Whether you take your dog to a proper swimming pool for dogs or the beach, you will find they love getting their fur wet. All you need is a hot day, a few hours up your sleeve and a toy, and your dog is ready for fun in the sun. However, don’t forget your towel as they are likely to drip water everywhere!
Shollies are exceptionally agile, so why not use that to your advantage and create an obstacle course for them? You can set one up at your house with poles, tunnels, tables, and steps, or ask your local dog club if there is one nearby. Given your Shollies’ parentage, they are bound to be masters of agility courses in no time.
Shollies are one of the most pawesome family pets you can own. They are loving, loyal, fiercely protective, and very intelligent as well. For everything they offer you, make sure you give it back ten-fold by giving them plenty to do. Your Shollie needs a job to do, and it’s up to you to provide them with enough to cater to their physical and mental requirements.