Should I Get A Border Collie? Take This Quiz To Find Out!

Getting a dog is a big decision, and it’s important to choose the right breed for your lifestyle.

Border Collies are intelligent, active dogs that require a lot of exercise and attention, and if you’re considering getting one, taking a quick quiz can help you determine if this breed is right for you.

In this article, we’ll try to help you answer the question “Should I get a Border Collie?”, by giving you some tried and tested questions. These quiz-style questions, typically ask about your lifestyle, living situation, and experience with dogs, which will gauge your compatibility with this breed.

Remember to answer these questions honestly, as it’s crucial for you to know if the Border Collie is indeed a good fit for you and your family.

Understanding Border Collies

Border Collies are a highly intelligent and energetic breed of dog that originated in Scotland.

They were originally bred as herders and are known for their black and white coats and distinctive ears.

One of the defining characteristics of Border Collies is their energy and temperament. They are very energetic and require a lot of exercise and attention.

They are also highly intelligent and quick to learn, which makes them easy to train.

Despite their high energy levels, Border Collies are also very loyal and independent. They are known for their herding instincts and are often used as working dogs on farms and ranches.

When it comes to size, Border Collies are typically:

• Medium-sized dogs. Not the biggest, but not too small either.
• They can range in weight from around 30 to 45 pounds (13-20 kgs).
• They stand around 18 to 22 inches (0.4-0.5m) tall at the shoulder.

Overall, if you’re considering getting a Border Collie, it’s important to understand their energy levels and temperament.

They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that are quick to learn, but they do require a lot of exercise and attention.

Border Collie Lifestyle Requirements

Before deciding to get a Border Collie, it’s important to understand their lifestyle requirements.

Border Collies are highly active dogs that require a lot of physical and mental stimulation. Here are some of the lifestyle requirements to consider:

• Exercise Requirements: Border Collies need a lot of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are high-energy dogs that require at least 2 hours of exercise each day. This can include activities such as running, hiking, playing fetch, or agility training.

• Open Spaces: Border Collies thrive in open spaces where they can run and play. If you live in an apartment or small house, you may need to provide your Border Collie with access to a some extra space like a backyard. Alternatively, you’ll want to take your pup out more regularly. Learn more about Border Collies in apartments, here.

• Mental Stimulation: Border Collies are highly intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation. This can include activities such as training, puzzle toys, or games of hide-and-seek.

• Attention: Border Collies crave attention and can become destructive if left alone for long periods of time. If you work long hours, you may need to hire a dog walker or provide your Border Collie with a companion pet.

• Care: Border Collies require regular grooming and care. This includes brushing their coat, trimming their nails, and cleaning their teeth.

• Diet: Border Collies require a balanced diet that is high in protein and nutrients. You should feed your Border Collie a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level.

Overall, Border Collies are amazing dogs that make great pets for the right person. If you are an active person who enjoys spending time outdoors and can provide your Border Collie with the care and attention they need, then a Border Collie may be the perfect dog for you.

Traits and Temperament of Border Collies

When it comes to specific temperament traits to take into consideration before getting a Border Collie, these are:

• Friendly: Border Collies are generally friendly dogs that get along well with people and other animals and even kids. However, they can be reserved or shy around strangers if not socialized properly.

• Loyal: Border Collies are known for their loyalty to their owners and are often referred to as “velcro dogs” because they like to be close to their people.

• Quick to learn: Border Collies are highly intelligent and quick learners, which makes them easy to train. They excel in obedience, agility, dog sports, and a ton of other jobs.

• Independent: While Border Collies are loyal and affectionate, they can also be independent and strong-willed. They may not always follow commands if they don’t see the point or if they are distracted by something more interesting, (especially males). With correct training, most Border Collies will follow orders without much of an issue. 

• Curious: Border Collies are curious dogs that like to explore their environment. They may try to escape from their yard or investigate things that catch their attention.

• Intelligence: Border Collies are the most intelligent dog breed on the planet and are often used as working dogs on farms and ranches. They are capable of learning complex tasks and problem-solving.

• Obedience: Border Collies are highly obedient dogs that respond well to training. However, they may become bored or frustrated with repetitive training exercises and require variety in their training routine.

Overall, Border Collies are a highly intelligent and active breed that requires an experienced owner who can provide them with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and training.

If you are considering getting a Border Collie, it’s important to research the breed thoroughly and make sure it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and personality.

Other Considerations for Potential Owners…

If you are considering getting a Border Collie, apart from the considerations we’ve mentioned above, here are a few things to consider:

Lifestyle and Open Space

Border Collies are generally not suitable for apartment living and need their own space.

This is not to say that they can’t live in apartments, they do great in apartments and in the city.

It’s just that this breed of dog, does best in rural areas and farms, where they have tons of space to run around. The Border Collie breed was originated in farms, so it’s no surprise that they’ll thrive in these conditions.

If you live in a small apartment or do not have access to a large yard, a Border Collie may not be the right choice for you.

If you still want to get a Border Collie, you’ll maybe want to change your routine and schedule a bit, to make up for it. By taking your dog out multiple times a day to exercise, their physical needs can be met.

Training and Handling

Border Collies are highly trainable and intelligent dogs, but some of them can also be stubborn and independent-minded.

For this reason, basic obedience training is a must for everyday tasks, and advanced training later on, can help channel their energy into productive activities like jobs and other activities.

They require consistent and patient training to learn obedience and good behavior, so keep that in mind before adding a Border Collie to your life.

Companion and Compatibility

Border Collies are loyal and affectionate companions, but they can also be high-strung and require quite a lot of attention.

For this reason, they’re not the best option for people who work long hours and cannot provide them with the attention they need, as they generally are pretty clingy, like to cuddle, follow and hang around their owners a lot.  

If you are looking for a low-maintenance dog or do not have the time to devote to a pet, a Border Collie might not be the right choice for you, unless you feel that you could train your dog to be more independent.

Life Expectancy: A Long-Term Commitment

Before bringing a Border Collie into your home, one of the most important things to keep in mind, is that you recognize the long-term commitment you’re making.

These intelligent and energetic dogs have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

This means you’ll be embarking on a journey that could span over a decade, requiring consistent care, attention, and companionship.

Be prepared for the responsibilities that come with caring for your Border Collie through various life stages, from puppyhood to their golden years and in their final ones too.

Health Considerations

Just like any other dog breed, understanding the potential health problems that Border Collies can face is crucial for their well-being, and for you to know what to expect.

Like many breeds, Border Collies can be prone to hip dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects the hip joint’s stability and can lead to arthritis.

Additionally, cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens, can develop over time and impact their vision.

Epilepsy in dogs and specifically in Border Collies, is also pretty common. Generally speaking though it’s not thought to be genetic, and depends on each individual dog.

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and exercise can help mitigate these risks.

By being proactive in monitoring their health and addressing issues promptly, you can provide your Border Collie with the best possible quality of life.

Patience during Puppyhood

Bringing a Border Collie puppy into your home requires patience and understanding, much like raising a child.

Puppies may chew on furniture, explore by eating inappropriate objects like plastic toys, and have accidents indoors.

House training can take time, and it’s important to establish a consistent routine for potty breaks.

Be prepared to invest time in training and socialization to help them develop into well-behaved adult dogs.

Remember that these challenges are part of the puppy phase and with proper guidance and training, your Border Collie will grow into a disciplined and delightful companion.

Always keep in mind that you want to be patient with your dog, that it’s a phase and that it too shall pass. 

Questions and Resources

Before getting a Border Collie, the most important thing, is to do your research and ask questions.

There are many resources available online and in your local community to help you learn more about Border Collies and their needs.

Consider talking to an experienced breeder, veterinarian, or taking to a Border Collie owner to get more information and guidance.

Bringing a Border Collie into your life can be incredibly rewarding, but it comes with responsibilities and considerations unique to this breed.

Should I Get A Border Collie? Conclusion

If you’re considering getting a Border Collie, taking a quiz can be a helpful tool in determining if this breed is right for you.

Quizzes can be question based, like the questions we’ve gone over in this article.

Based on how comfortable you feel when answering these questions to yourself, you’ll get a better idea of whether this dog Breed aligns with your lifestyle and commitments or not.

It’s important to keep in mind that Border Collies:

• Need lots of daily exercise, and will be at their absolute best when working in open spaces.
• Need lots of attention, and care.
• Are highly intelligent and active dogs that thrive with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
• Require training, but are among the best (and easiest) dog breeds to train.
• Are loyal companions.
• Are mid-sized dogs that have an expectancy of around 15 years.
• Naturally shed their coats (to keep in mind if you’re allergic).

If you’re okay with most of these, and really want to get a Collie, then they might be a great fit.

If you’re not able to commit to providing the necessary exercise and attention, or if you’re looking for a more low-maintenance pet, a Border Collie might not be the best choice for you.

Especially if their active, energetic, athletic and curious lifestyle and demeanor, are completely opposite to your own.  

All in all, it’s important to consider all these factors before making a decision, including your living situation, work schedule, and other commitments.

By considering all factors and doing your research, you can make an informed decision that will lead to a happy and healthy life for both you and your furry friend.