How To Keep Border Collies Cool In Summer? Top Answer Update

The beautiful border collie

Are you looking for a dog that is often smarter than you? Look no further than the Border Collie! This super smart pooch has some great traits:

Very active and eager to serve a purpose

Above average intelligence and trainability when using positive reinforcement training methods

Alert watchdog with ready bark

Attentive, curious and busy

Athletic and agile

Well suited as a companion or working dog

These great traits find some balance in these other traits:

Needs lots of activity and mental stimulation to avoid boredom

Strong herding instincts can lead to chasing cars and small animals

Prone to separation anxiety

Requires frequent attention from family

Can be snappy with children

Sheds quite a bit and needs regular brushing

Widely regarded as the most intelligent dog breed, they can also be a handful. Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, she can develop problematic behavior.

Border Collies were bred as herding dogs in the countryside between Scotland and England. They are known for their intelligence and the intense gaze they keep on flocks of sheep. They are extremely active dogs that do best when they have a job to do. Their natural herding skills can lead them to herding anything that moves, including children and small animals. Border Collies are generally a healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12-15 years.

Your Border Collie’s health

We know you want to take good care of your dog because you care so much about them. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the health concerns we’ll be discussing with you about your Border Collie’s life. By knowing the health concerns specific to Border Collies, we can create a preventative health plan to look out for and hopefully prevent some foreseeable risks.

Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pet’s breed. There is a general consensus among canine geneticists and veterinarians that the conditions described herein have a significant incidence and/or impact in this breed. That doesn’t mean your dog will have these problems; it just means she’s at a higher risk than other dogs. We’re going to detail the most common problems faced by Border Collies to give you an idea of ​​what might be in store for them in the future. Of course, we can’t cover all possibilities here, so always check with us if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms.

This guide provides general health information that is important for all dogs, as well as the key genetics for Border Collies. This information will work together with you and us to plan for your pet’s individual medical needs. At the end of the article we have also included a description of what you can do at home to make your German Shepherd look and feel good. You’ll know what to look out for and we’ll all feel better knowing we’re taking care of your pal in the best possible way.

General health information for your Border Collie

dental disease

Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by the age of two. Unfortunately, your Border Collie is more likely than other dogs to have dental problems. Dental disease begins with the formation of tartar on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. If we don’t prevent or treat dental disease, your pal could lose his teeth and be at risk of damaging his kidneys, liver, heart and joints. In fact, your Border Collie’s lifespan can be shortened by as much as one to three years! We clean your dog’s teeth regularly and tell you what you can do at home to keep them sparkling white.

infections

Border Collies are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections can be prevented with vaccinations, which we recommend based on their age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors.

obesity

Obesity can be a significant health concern in Border Collies. It’s a serious disease that can cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. While it’s tempting to feed your girlfriend when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with dog scraps and treats. Instead, hug her, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk. She will feel better and so will you!

parasites

All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your German Shepherd’s body, inside and out. Anything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest their skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into your system in a number of ways: by drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious problem for everyone. For your four-legged friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort and even death, so it’s important that we test them regularly. We also recommend preventative medication to keep them healthy.

Spay or castration

One of the best things you can do for your Border Collie is to have them spayed (neutered if male). In women, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in men, we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering reduces the likelihood of certain types of cancer and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us the opportunity while your pet is under anesthesia to identify and treat some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs a hip x-ray or puppy tooth extraction, now would be a good time – it’s more convenient for you and easier for your friend too. Routine blood tests before surgery also help us identify common issues that increase the risk of anesthesia or surgery, and help us take precautions. Don’t worry; We’ll discuss the specific issues we’ll be looking for when the time comes.

Genetic predisposition for Border Collies

hip dysplasia

You’ve probably heard of hip dysplasia, an inherited condition that causes the hip joints to deform and leads to arthritis. Hip dysplasia is common in Border Collies. You may notice that he is lame in his hind legs or has difficulty getting up from a lying position. We take X-rays of your dog’s joints to detect the disease as early as possible and we can treat the arthritis – the sooner the better – to prevent discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes considered in severe and life-limiting cases of hip dysplasia. And remember, overweight dogs can develop arthritis years before normal weight dogs, causing undue pain and suffering.

bone disorder

If border collie puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach properly to the bones. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be needed to fix the problem. Our recommended growth rate for border collie puppies is no more than four pounds per week. To maintain this rate, don’t overfeed or supplement with extra calcium. Feed a large breed puppy food rather than an adult or regular puppy food. And weigh your pup every three to four weeks to make sure he’s on track.

epilepsy

There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain’s response to a metabolic problem, such as low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. When no other cause can be found, the condition is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Border Collies are commonly affected. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes usually start between the ages of six months and three years. A first diagnostic clarification can help to find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually required to keep seizures under control, with regular blood work required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. If your dog has a seizure, be careful not to injure yourself, but don’t try to control his mouth or tongue. It won’t help him and he might accidentally bite you! Note the duration of the seizure and call us at 908-332-5057 or call an emergency hospital.

thyroid problems

Border Collies are prone to a common condition called hypothyroidism, in which the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, anxiety, aggression, and other behavioral changes. We do a blood test annually to check for this disease. Treatment is usually as simple as replacement hormones in a pill form.

separation anxiety

Some dogs become easily bored or anxious when away from their human companions, especially if they don’t get enough exercise or mental stimulation. A planned routine, busy schedule, and stable home environment can help prevent common behavior problems associated with separation anxiety. Also, make sure your border collie has some time alone and to play as a puppy so that he gets used to being alone for short periods of time.

noise phobia

Fear of storms, fireworks, and loud noises is common in dogs of all breeds. Dogs are at risk of hurting themselves when they are frightened, especially when they are desperately trying to escape or chew through doors, kennels or walls. Working with us to find a suitable plan for your Border Collie is a process we will tackle together. We want to address his problem when the first signs appear, as anxiety behaviors tend to get worse over time.

Cancer

Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your Collie will likely live longer than many other breeds and is therefore more susceptible to cancer during their golden years. Many types of cancer are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is crucial! We perform regular diagnostic tests, looking for lumps and bumps when we examine your pet.

Multidrug Resistance

Multidrug resistance is a genetic defect in a gene called MDR1. If your Border Collie has this mutation, it can affect the way his body processes various medications, including substances commonly used to treat parasites, diarrhea and even cancer. For years, veterinarians have avoided using ivermectin on herding dogs, but now there’s a DNA test that can specifically identify dogs at risk of side effects from certain medications. Testing your pet early can prevent drug-related toxicity.

Overheating disorder: malignant hyperthermia

Some Border Collies appear to have a malfunctioning “internal thermostat” and can develop dangerously high body temperatures that can lead to heat stroke, muscle stiffness and organ damage. This condition is called malignant hyperthermia – malignant, meaning deadly or dangerous, and hyperthermia, referring to overheating. This is particularly common during and after anesthesia, so we will closely monitor your pet’s temperature to avoid complications following surgical or dental procedures. DNA testing for a predisposition to hyperthermia is available, and carriers should be screened and identified prior to breeding.

heart disease

Border collies are prone to a condition called patent ductus arteriosus, or PDA, in which a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart doesn’t close as it should soon after birth. This causes too much blood to be carried to the lungs, causing fluid buildup and a strain on the heart. External signs can be mild or severe, including coughing, fatigue during exercise, weight loss, shortness of breath, and weakness in the back legs. We listen for a specific type of heart murmur to help diagnose this problem during your pet’s exams. If your buddy has this condition, we may recommend surgery to close off the problematic vessel.

liver problems

Your border collie is more likely than other dogs to have a liver condition called portosystemic shunt (PSS). Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, their liver cannot effectively remove toxins from their bloodstream. To check for this issue, we perform a liver function test every time he undergoes anesthesia, in addition to a standard pre-anesthesia panel. If he develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, we will do blood tests and possibly an ultrasound scan of his liver. Surgery may be required, but in some cases we can treat with a special diet and medication.

nutrient malabsorption

Cobalamin (vitamin B12) is an essential nutrient. A genetic defect, more likely in Border Collies than other dogs, interferes with the gut’s absorption of this nutrient, resulting in loss of appetite, stunted growth, loss of protein, and low red and white blood cell counts. Don’t worry; We can test this defect with blood tests. If your pal is affected, cobalamin injections will be needed for the rest of his life. Fortunately, this disease is rare.

blood disease

Your Border Collie can develop a relatively rare blood condition called Pelger-Huet anomaly. If he’s a carrier of the disease, his infection-fighting white blood cells look abnormal under a microscope but function normally. However, puppies that inherit a copy of this abnormal gene from both parents usually die before or shortly after birth. For this reason, it is important to diagnose breeding dogs that are carriers of this defect so that they do not pass it on to their offspring.

nervous disease

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, or NCL, is a progressive neurological condition that occurs in several breeds, including Border Collies. Clinical signs usually appear in younger dogs, around one to three years of age. Hind leg weakness and imbalance can occur in the early stages. Symptoms can progress to weakness affecting all four legs, and some dogs also lose vision. There is currently no effective treatment for this disease, but genetic testing is available. Dogs carrying the mutation should not be used for breeding as it can easily be passed on to future generations.

eye problems

Few things have such a dramatic impact on your dog’s quality of life as the proper functioning of their eyes. Unfortunately, Border Collies can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which can lead to blindness if not treated promptly, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will check his eyes for signs of concern at every check-up.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Border Collies. We’ll note that the lenses in his eyes become more opaque – meaning they look cloudy instead of clear – as we examine him. Many dogs adapt well to the loss of their sight and get along well with each other. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore vision may also be an option.

Pannus is like a suntan on your dog’s eyeball. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea (the clear part of the eye) which then darkens with exposure to UV light and can lead to total blindness. It’s thought to have a genetic component, as the condition is prevalent in certain breeds, like your Border Collie. We will monitor his eyes closely for early signs and begin preventative eye medication if needed. Dog sunglasses are also an option to reduce sun exposure.

Collie Eye Anomaly is a genetic condition that causes abnormal development of the eyes in Border Collies. In severe cases, the disease can lead to blindness. Unfortunately there is no treatment. It is important to give your pet a thorough eye exam before breeding.

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an inherited condition in which the eyes are genetically programmed to go blind. Unfortunately, Border Collies are affected by this condition a little more often than other dogs. PRA is not painful, but it is not curable either. In dogs with this gene, early symptoms such as night blindness or dilated pupils usually begin around three to five years of age. A genetic test is available for this condition.

Caring for your Border Collie at home

A lot of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for humans. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, brush her teeth and coat regularly, and call us or a veterinary clinic if anything seems unusual (see “What to look out for” below). Be sure to follow our recommended check-up and vaccination schedule. We will then give her the necessary “check-ups” and test her for diseases and conditions that are common in Border Collies. Another very important step in caring for your pet is getting pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures that she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs.

routine care, diet and exercise

Work their routine grooming into your schedule to help your German Shepherd live longer, stay healthier, and be happier throughout his life. We cannot stress enough the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine.

Supervise your pet like a toddler. Keep doors closed, tidy up behind you and cordon off rooms if necessary. This will keep her out of trouble and objects she shouldn’t put in her mouth.

Brush their coat at least weekly.

Border Collies generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week!

Clean their ears weekly, even as a puppy. Don’t worry – we’ll show you how!

She is a very smart dog with lots of energy so keep her mind and body active or she will get bored. That’s when the naughty stuff starts.

She is an athletic and acrobatic dog who excels in agility competitions, flyball and herding events.

Border Collies can be sensitive to noise, so be prepared for thunderstorms, New Year’s Eve and the 4th of July!

Keep your dog’s diet consistent and don’t feed his humans.

Feed them good quality food that is appropriate for their age.

Exercise your dog regularly, but don’t overdo it at first.

What to look out for

Any abnormal symptom can be a sign of a serious medical condition, or it can just be a minor or temporary problem. It is important to know when and how urgently veterinary help is needed. Many diseases in dogs cause a distinctive combination of symptoms that together can be a clear signal that your Border Collie needs help.

office calls

Call us for an appointment if you notice any of these signs:

Change in appetite or water consumption

Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth

itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking); hair loss

Lethargy, mental fatigue, or excessive sleeping

Anxiety, aggression, or other behavioral changes

Dull coat, hair loss; sluggish, weight gain

Slow or stunted growth; sometimes seizures after eating

Anxiety, destructive behaviors, vocalizing, hiding, panting, or drooling

emergencies

See a doctor right away if you notice any of these signs:

As the days get hotter, some dog owners may need to take extra precautions to protect their pets from potentially fatal heat stroke, a study published Thursday suggests.

British researchers found that certain breeds, as well as those who are older and/or overweight, may be more likely to suffer from heat-related illness than others. In general, dogs that weigh more than 110 pounds, as well as flat-faced breeds — like pugs and French bulldogs — are most at risk, according to the study in Scientific Reports.

The breeds at highest risk of heatstroke were:

chow chow

bulldog

French bulldog

dogue de bordeaux

greyhound

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

pug

Golden retriever

Springer Spaniel

For example, chow chows were 16 times more likely to get heat stroke than labradors.

“I would advise all dog owners to consider whether their pet is at increased risk of heatstroke,” said Emily Hall, the lead author and Lecturer in Veterinary Medicine at Nottingham Trent University in the UK. “Are you overweight? Are they a giant breed? are they older Are they one of the breeds that have been identified as being at higher risk?”

If your dog is at higher risk, you should be aware of the signs of overheating, she said in an email. That way, “you can act immediately in an emergency [and also] be really careful in warm weather to avoid exposing any dog ​​to this potentially fatal condition.”

Signs that a dog is overheating include excessive panting, vomiting, excessive drooling, bloody diarrhea and collapsing, said Dr. Kenneth Drobatz, Professor and Chief of the Critical Care Unit in the Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Drobatz was not involved in the new research.

To investigate the risk of heatstroke more closely, Hall and her colleagues searched records from veterinary practices in the UK. Out of a total of 905,543 dogs, 395 had confirmed heat-related illness events and 56 died.

Flat-faced breeds like bulldogs are particularly at risk because their breathing is affected by the shape of their skull, Hall explained.

“Dogs use panting to cool down, which works by moving air across the nasal passages, allowing for evaporative heat loss,” she said. “Dogs with shorter muzzles (brachycephalic breeds) have less surface area to emit heat.”

These dogs also tend to have narrowed airways, which means the dog has to work harder to pant, she said.

Prevention is key

Dog owners should exercise caution on hot, humid days, as dogs keep going even when overheated, Drobatz said. “You train until you drop.”

“Prevention is more important than anything else,” he said. “They have to realize that these dogs are endangered and shouldn’t go into a hot, humid environment.”

Sometimes dogs get into trouble because of their playfulness, said Dr. Daniel Fletcher, associate professor of emergency and critical care medicine at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

“Those with excited, active personalities are just going to go chasing the ball and chasing the ball and chasing the ball,” he said. “You don’t realize they’re in trouble until it’s too late. They are a little too good to us, sometimes to their own detriment.”

Dogs that pant excessively should be moved to a cool place and ideally doused with room temperature water, Fletcher said.

“If the dog isn’t breathing normally again in 15 minutes, it’s a good idea to take the dog to a vet,” he added. “If the dog’s temperature goes above 107 or 108, the dog’s organs and ability to form blood clots can be damaged.”

Even if the dog appears to be back to normal, the owner should remain vigilant, Fletcher said. “Sometimes they may seem to go back to normal at first, but in a few hours or a day the dog can develop kidney failure or respiratory or heart problems,” he said.

Owners should watch for signs such as “lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the stool, dark stool or bruising, or pinpoint red patches on the skin,” Fletcher said, adding that these symptoms warrant a visit to an emergency vet.

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Dogs are adaptable companions, but the climate you live in can have a significant impact on how comfortable your pup is on a day-to-day basis. The best hot weather dogs have the right type of coat (or no coat at all!) and a body structure better suited to hot temperatures. It’s not surprising that many of these breeds hail from warm climates, with many generations of adaptation and selective breeding to adapt to their environment.

Tip While some breeds can handle warmer weather than others, all dogs need basic safety precautions on hot days to avoid heat stroke: never leave your dog in a hot car, always make sure your dog has access to fresh water, and avoid leaving your dog outside unattended for long periods of time.

breed characteristics

A dog’s build can say a lot about how well they handle the heat. The most obvious is his fur. Just as a long, black fur coat worn by a person in the height of summer seems unreasonable, so does the same for a double-coated, dark-haired pooch. Dogs that do best in warm temperatures have short hair, no hair, or a single coat — and it’s usually a lighter color, like white, brown, or gray. Dogs with long noses are generally better suited to warmer temperatures. Their long snouts process warm air and cool it as it is inhaled. Also, dogs with large, erect ears tend to cool down much faster than dogs with droopy ears that trap warm air.

These 12 dogs are the best hot-weather dogs, uniquely adapted to tropical temperatures.

I’m pretty sure when you were a kid you knew someone whose dog, specifically a border collie, lived on a farm and the dog was outside all winter. Even if you haven’t, you probably have that belief from the movies. But is it true – are Border Collies good with cold weather?

Do Border Collies like cold weather?

Of course! The depths of winter won’t stop a Border Collie from having fun. I have seen many Border Collies happily trudging through the snow while others tended the sheep and cattle with great zeal.

Hard to believe? Check out YouTube! Although the breed is not designed to endure the harshest of winter conditions, the vast majority can spend a lot of time outdoors.

Because of their fur, Border Collies can tolerate cool temperatures. In case you don’t already know, a Border Collie can have either a medium-length rough coat or a short, straight coat. In any case, collies shed their light summer coat and grow their full winter coat in the fall.

How cold is too cold for my Border Collie?

Thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit is the lowest temperature Border Collies will tolerate. While many Border Collies can go about their usual routine at this temperature, it doesn’t mean it will work for your pooch.

The truth is that Border Collies don’t have the same tolerance for cold temperatures. And no matter how hardy your collie is, you need to limit doggo exposure outdoors when the temperature reaches 20°F.

Why Do Border Collies Have Different Cold Tolerances?

As a rule, the free and nature-loving peasant boys have a higher tolerance for cold than the spoiled puppies of apartments and suburbs. But acclimatization aside, the following factors can also affect how a Border Collie tolerates snowy weather:

body fat

Coat density aside, a small pudge can help an outdoor collie survive the bitter cold. Body fat is a great insulator. However, there is a lot of debate about feeding a dog in the winter. I’ll clear that up for you later in this article.

Age

Puppies and older dogs always need extra help when it comes to keeping the cold at bay.

Older dogs cannot regulate their body temperature as well as when they were young. Still, I don’t recommend locking Doggo in your house. Make him wear a sweater and get him moving — even if it just means walking around the patio for 10 minutes.

Puppies, on the other hand, get cold the quickest because they don’t generate the same body heat as adults. Also, they don’t have their full fur yet to protect them. Their bare bellies and short, stubby legs are only touched by the snow-covered ground. So, it’s best to keep your puppeteer indoors!

illness

Chronic diseases like diabetes and kidney disease make it difficult for Border Collies to regulate body temperature. To avoid weather-related problems, you must take precautions at all times, especially when taking your dog outside.

With winter in full swing, arthritic pets can also find walking even harder. A sharp drop in temperature causes muscles to contract; This increases pressure and pain in inflamed joints.

How do I know if my Border Collie is cold?

Make sure you know how Doggo behaves when he gets cold; Otherwise he could fall victim to hypothermia.

❄ Trembling or shaking

❄ whining or barking

❄ stooped posture with tail tucked

❄ Raise paws alternately off the ground

❄ tries to turn around

Hypothermia in dogs occurs when their core body temperature drops to 88°F or less.

Should I Feed My Border Collie More During Winter?

If you feed your dog the same amount of food, despite the minimum calorie consumption, then he will certainly get fat. Because of this, most owners feed their dogs less in the winter since they don’t exercise their dogs as much as they used to.

Unfortunately, many people are not aware that this does not apply to Border Collies outdoors. Studies suggest that active, outdoor dogs in the winter need three times as many calories as their typical calorie intake in the warmer months.

Increasing Doggo calorie intake leads to more fat deposits, providing your hardworking dog with the insulation they need to thrive in cold climate conditions.

Otherwise your dog will tremble, and the trembling will burn calories. Consequently, he would lose weight and lose his ability to maintain a constant core body temperature amidst the bitter cold.

If your Border Collie is gaining “winter weight”, you will need to cut back 10% of his food until the warm season. Continue the 10% increments until Doggo gets an hourglass waist, toned stomach, and chest that you can feel but can’t see.

Tips to keep your Border Collie safe and happy in the cold

Keeping your dog outside doesn’t mean you’re irresponsible, especially if you have a valid reason for it. Also, Border Collies are responsive to being outside. Think of them as teenagers who desperately need to go out.

🏠 Shelter

One of the best things you can do for your outdoor-loving pooch is to build him an insulated kennel that is a few inches off the ground. The door should face away from the wind and have a plastic awning and door flap.

While the house doesn’t have to be overly spacious, it should be large enough for Doggo to move around in its preferred position and sleep comfortably.

Wire mesh outdoor enclosures are unsuitable as they offer no protection from cold winter drafts. However, if you have already built one for your dog, consider placing an insulated doghouse on a corner.

Consider getting a K&H pet heat mat if your collie lives in a barn, shed, or garage. The mat only reacts when your dog is lying on it to avoid overheating. Most importantly, this product has been tested and certified by MET Labs to exceed US/CA electrical safety standards.

🍖🥣💦 Diet and nutrition

Avoid using stainless steel bowls when the temperature is below zero. Metal gets colder much faster than ceramic and plastic. Your pet’s tongue could stick to the shell and cause painful lacerations.

Instead, get a Farm Innovators heated water bowl to ensure your pooch has unlimited access to fresh, lukewarm water. An occasional bowl of chicken soup is a delicious way for Doggo to gain energy and boost its defenses.

As previously mentioned, an active Border Collie living outside will need more food to maintain their weight during the winter. Better yet, switch to a high-fat, high-protein kibble.

🧥🧣🧦 Winter gear

Healthy Border Collies don’t necessarily need boots to roam their little haciendas; However, they can come in handy if you were going to be hiking somewhere with your pooch. Dog shoes protect the dog’s paws from salt, toxic de-icers, broken glass and anything the trail throws at you.

Since adult and chronically ill dogs are at risk of hypothermia at a glance, it’s also advisable that your pooch wear a coat when you go outside. Don’t you want Doggo to look trendy? Jokes aside, prevention is always better than cure!

Conclusion

Are Border Collies good in cold weather? Of course they are! However, that doesn’t mean you should leave your pooch outside all day.

Border collies, like any other dog, are prone to hypothermia. But if your collie is fine being outside all day, make sure he has a safe and warm shelter when he needs to rest.

Also, don’t forget that every dog ​​is an individual. Your Border Collie may not take the cold weather like someone else’s pooch. Many factors come into play, including your dog’s age and health.

So be aware of your pet’s tolerance and adjust accordingly. Always look out for signs that your pooch is too cold. You may also need to cut back on your dog’s walks.

Where Will Your Border Collie Puppy Sleep?

There are so many decisions to make before bringing your Border Collie puppy home. One of the biggest is where your Border Collie sleeps.

Will it sleep outside in a kennel? Or will it sleep in the house. If it sleeps in the house, where in the house should it sleep? Would you like your Border Collie puppy to sleep in the laundry, the kitchen, or your bedroom?

If the border collie puppy sleeps indoors, how will you protect it? Have you considered using a crate as your border collie puppy’s kennel to keep the border collie puppy from running around the house or outside while you sleep? Just think of all the mischief and damage a border collie puppy can wreak. Not only that, your Border Collie puppy could be seriously injured….

sleeping outside

Border Collies prefer to sleep close to their pack. You and your family are their pack.

If you want your border collie to sleep outside, provide the border collie puppy with a kennel that will become its own den with a good bed in it. All Border Collies need their own kennel outside, whether they sleep outside at night or not.

It gives them shelter and a safe place to be when you’re not home.

sleep inside

Ultimately, where your border collie puppy sleeps is your personal choice.

Somewhere in the house near the heart of the action in your home is ideal. If you lock your Border Collie in a laundry separate from the rest of the family, chances are he will cry and move on. Put a nice, comfortable bed somewhere in the living area of ​​your home and your border collie will be happy.

Use of a dog crate

A collapsible crate is invaluable if you have a Border Collie. It’s like an indoor dog kennel and you can put it in any place you want. It’s best to put the crate in a permanent spot so your Border Collie learns that it’s their own special place.

Make sure the crate is in a safe place. Border Collies like boxes because they become like a den.

Crates are great for us as they are a safe place for your border collie puppy when you want to keep them safe from danger.

A crate-trained Border Collie will go to bed in his crate if he likes his space. A crate is also very handy for taking your Border Collie with you to training, dog sport trials, shows and outings.

Since your border collie will end up loving his crate, never use it as a form of punishment. Your Border Collie will use his crate to sleep in it without you telling him and will often spend time in it just hanging out and playing with his toys.

Crate training your Border Collie has another benefit as it is a great way to housetrain your Border Collie puppy at night. A border collie does not typically use their bed as a toilet. So, putting your border collie puppy in a crate at night will ensure that there are no accidents in your home.

Border Collies were originally bred to collect and control sheep in the rolling countryside of Scotland and England. They’re a dog with lots of energy and stamina, but all that running around can easily give Border Collies an unkempt look! To keep them looking neat and tidy, you need to develop a grooming routine that works for your Border Collie.

How Often Should Border Collies Be Groomed?

Border Collies often have fairly thick coats and the breed is generally very active, but to ensure your pooch looks presentable you need to keep an eye on your grooming regimen. So how often should you groom your Border Collie? We recommend that you get the brush to your pet’s coat about three times a week to ensure your Border Collie’s coat does not become matted or tangled. If you start grooming your dog as a puppy, you should have fewer grooming problems as they get older, especially with Border Collies, who are active and energetic dogs.

Do Border Collies shed a lot of hair?

In fact, most Border Collies do shed. Due to the breeds double-coated long hair, it is inevitable that you will see some shedding. Border collies seem to have two seasons when they shed the most, spring and fall. Shedding is one way to rejuvenate the coat, and being outdoors helps your collie stay cool. During the moulting period, it is important to brush and groom your pet regularly to avoid matting their hair. Grooming your Border Collie can often be seen as a full-time job, but luckily if you keep an eye on the moulting problem, you should be able to groom your pet’s coat on a regular basis.

This article was co-authored by Lancy Woo. Lancy Woo is a certified pet groomer and owner of VIP Grooming, a pet grooming salon based in San Francisco, California. VIP Grooming has been serving San Francisco for over 35 years. Lancy received her certification as a Pet Caretaker from the WWPSA (Western World Pet Supply Association). Voted Best in the Bay in 2007, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2017, 2018 and 2019, VIP Grooming won Bay Woof’s 2014 Beast of Bay. Legacy Business Registry of Francisco’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development. This article has been viewed 61,073 times.

Article overview

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To groom your Collie, you will need either blunt-tipped grooming shears or electric clippers. First, trim the hair around your collie’s ears and paws to keep it from matting. Then, trim the hair on the back of your collie’s legs and trim off any long hair on his tail. Just avoid shaving or clipping your collie, even in the summer, as collies use their coats to regulate their body temperature year-round. Read on for more advice from our veterinary co-author, such as: B. how to bathe your Collie!

I’m pretty sure when you were a kid you knew someone whose dog, specifically a border collie, lived on a farm and the dog was outside all winter. Even if you haven’t, you probably have that belief from the movies. But is it true – are Border Collies good with cold weather?

Do Border Collies like cold weather?

Of course! The depths of winter won’t stop a Border Collie from having fun. I have seen many Border Collies happily trudging through the snow while others tended the sheep and cattle with great zeal.

Hard to believe? Check out YouTube! Although the breed is not designed to endure the harshest of winter conditions, the vast majority can spend a lot of time outdoors.

Because of their fur, Border Collies can tolerate cool temperatures. In case you don’t already know, a Border Collie can have either a medium-length rough coat or a short, straight coat. In any case, collies shed their light summer coat and grow their full winter coat in the fall.

How cold is too cold for my Border Collie?

Thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit is the lowest temperature Border Collies will tolerate. While many Border Collies can go about their usual routine at this temperature, it doesn’t mean it will work for your pooch.

The truth is that Border Collies don’t have the same tolerance for cold temperatures. And no matter how hardy your collie is, you need to limit doggo exposure outdoors when the temperature reaches 20°F.

Why Do Border Collies Have Different Cold Tolerances?

As a rule, the free and nature-loving peasant boys have a higher tolerance for cold than the spoiled puppies of apartments and suburbs. But acclimatization aside, the following factors can also affect how a Border Collie tolerates snowy weather:

body fat

Coat density aside, a small pudge can help an outdoor collie survive the bitter cold. Body fat is a great insulator. However, there is a lot of debate about feeding a dog in the winter. I’ll clear that up for you later in this article.

Age

Puppies and older dogs always need extra help when it comes to keeping the cold at bay.

Older dogs cannot regulate their body temperature as well as when they were young. Still, I don’t recommend locking Doggo in your house. Make him wear a sweater and get him moving — even if it just means walking around the patio for 10 minutes.

Puppies, on the other hand, get cold the quickest because they don’t generate the same body heat as adults. Also, they don’t have their full fur yet to protect them. Their bare bellies and short, stubby legs are only touched by the snow-covered ground. So, it’s best to keep your puppeteer indoors!

illness

Chronic diseases like diabetes and kidney disease make it difficult for Border Collies to regulate body temperature. To avoid weather-related problems, you must take precautions at all times, especially when taking your dog outside.

With winter in full swing, arthritic pets can also find walking even harder. A sharp drop in temperature causes muscles to contract; This increases pressure and pain in inflamed joints.

How do I know if my Border Collie is cold?

Make sure you know how Doggo behaves when he gets cold; Otherwise he could fall victim to hypothermia.

❄ Trembling or shaking

❄ whining or barking

❄ stooped posture with tail tucked

❄ Raise paws alternately off the ground

❄ tries to turn around

Hypothermia in dogs occurs when their core body temperature drops to 88°F or less.

Should I Feed My Border Collie More During Winter?

If you feed your dog the same amount of food, despite the minimum calorie consumption, then he will certainly get fat. Because of this, most owners feed their dogs less in the winter since they don’t exercise their dogs as much as they used to.

Unfortunately, many people are not aware that this does not apply to Border Collies outdoors. Studies suggest that active, outdoor dogs in the winter need three times as many calories as their typical calorie intake in the warmer months.

Increasing Doggo calorie intake leads to more fat deposits, providing your hardworking dog with the insulation they need to thrive in cold climate conditions.

Otherwise your dog will tremble, and the trembling will burn calories. Consequently, he would lose weight and lose his ability to maintain a constant core body temperature amidst the bitter cold.

If your Border Collie is gaining “winter weight”, you will need to cut back 10% of his food until the warm season. Continue the 10% increments until Doggo gets an hourglass waist, toned stomach, and chest that you can feel but can’t see.

Tips to keep your Border Collie safe and happy in the cold

Keeping your dog outside doesn’t mean you’re irresponsible, especially if you have a valid reason for it. Also, Border Collies are responsive to being outside. Think of them as teenagers who desperately need to go out.

🏠 Shelter

One of the best things you can do for your outdoor-loving pooch is to build him an insulated kennel that is a few inches off the ground. The door should face away from the wind and have a plastic awning and door flap.

While the house doesn’t have to be overly spacious, it should be large enough for Doggo to move around in its preferred position and sleep comfortably.

Wire mesh outdoor enclosures are unsuitable as they offer no protection from cold winter drafts. However, if you have already built one for your dog, consider placing an insulated doghouse on a corner.

Consider getting a K&H pet heat mat if your collie lives in a barn, shed, or garage. The mat only reacts when your dog is lying on it to avoid overheating. Most importantly, this product has been tested and certified by MET Labs to exceed US/CA electrical safety standards.

🍖🥣💦 Diet and nutrition

Avoid using stainless steel bowls when the temperature is below zero. Metal gets colder much faster than ceramic and plastic. Your pet’s tongue could stick to the shell and cause painful lacerations.

Instead, get a Farm Innovators heated water bowl to ensure your pooch has unlimited access to fresh, lukewarm water. An occasional bowl of chicken soup is a delicious way for Doggo to gain energy and boost its defenses.

As previously mentioned, an active Border Collie living outside will need more food to maintain their weight during the winter. Better yet, switch to a high-fat, high-protein kibble.

🧥🧣🧦 Winter gear

Healthy Border Collies don’t necessarily need boots to roam their little haciendas; However, they can come in handy if you were going to be hiking somewhere with your pooch. Dog shoes protect the dog’s paws from salt, toxic de-icers, broken glass and anything the trail throws at you.

Since adult and chronically ill dogs are at risk of hypothermia at a glance, it’s also advisable that your pooch wear a coat when you go outside. Don’t you want Doggo to look trendy? Jokes aside, prevention is always better than cure!

Conclusion

Are Border Collies good in cold weather? Of course they are! However, that doesn’t mean you should leave your pooch outside all day.

Border collies, like any other dog, are prone to hypothermia. But if your collie is fine being outside all day, make sure he has a safe and warm shelter when he needs to rest.

Also, don’t forget that every dog ​​is an individual. Your Border Collie may not take the cold weather like someone else’s pooch. Many factors come into play, including your dog’s age and health.

So be aware of your pet’s tolerance and adjust accordingly. Always look out for signs that your pooch is too cold. You may also need to cut back on your dog’s walks.

Where Will Your Border Collie Puppy Sleep?

There are so many decisions to make before bringing your Border Collie puppy home. One of the biggest is where your Border Collie sleeps.

Will it sleep outside in a kennel? Or will it sleep in the house. If it sleeps in the house, where in the house should it sleep? Would you like your Border Collie puppy to sleep in the laundry, the kitchen, or your bedroom?

If the border collie puppy sleeps indoors, how will you protect it? Have you considered using a crate as your border collie puppy’s kennel to keep the border collie puppy from running around the house or outside while you sleep? Just think of all the mischief and damage a border collie puppy can wreak. Not only that, your Border Collie puppy could be seriously injured….

sleeping outside

Border Collies prefer to sleep close to their pack. You and your family are their pack.

If you want your border collie to sleep outside, provide the border collie puppy with a kennel that will become its own den with a good bed in it. All Border Collies need their own kennel outside, whether they sleep outside at night or not.

It gives them shelter and a safe place to be when you’re not home.

sleep inside

Ultimately, where your border collie puppy sleeps is your personal choice.

Somewhere in the house near the heart of the action in your home is ideal. If you lock your Border Collie in a laundry separate from the rest of the family, chances are he will cry and move on. Put a nice, comfortable bed somewhere in the living area of ​​your home and your border collie will be happy.

Use of a dog crate

A collapsible crate is invaluable if you have a Border Collie. It’s like an indoor dog kennel and you can put it in any place you want. It’s best to put the crate in a permanent spot so your Border Collie learns that it’s their own special place.

Make sure the crate is in a safe place. Border Collies like boxes because they become like a den.

Crates are great for us as they are a safe place for your border collie puppy when you want to keep them safe from danger.

A crate-trained Border Collie will go to bed in his crate if he likes his space. A crate is also very handy for taking your Border Collie with you to training, dog sport trials, shows and outings.

Since your border collie will end up loving his crate, never use it as a form of punishment. Your Border Collie will use his crate to sleep in it without you telling him and will often spend time in it just hanging out and playing with his toys.

Crate training your Border Collie has another benefit as it is a great way to housetrain your Border Collie puppy at night. A border collie does not typically use their bed as a toilet. So, putting your border collie puppy in a crate at night will ensure that there are no accidents in your home.