I've got a 5-month-old Border Collie. She's our first dog. The behaviourist is telling us she needs at least an hour's walk every day, but our lifestyle just doesn't allow for that! Is it really necessary? Would half an hour be enough?<\/p>
Another question that might sound silly or even a bit out of place... but what about the hygiene side of things when you have a dog? They don't always smell the best (any tips?), and the house gets so messy with her coming in and out... Am I just being a total neat freak? Is this normal? Surely I'm not the only one who wants a clean home even with a dog around??? Sorry for all these questions, but we're seriously doubting whether we should keep her or not... we just don't feel like we're up to it.<\/p>
Translated from French
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You don't just buy a dog like you’re picking up a packet of biscuits!
You need to do your research first!!
And yes, dogs make a mess; there’s no way around it other than doing more cleaning. You should’ve looked into that as well...
Yet another poor pup who’s going to suffer because of human stupidity...
You seriously need to take a long, hard look at yourself! You don't just get a dog without researching the breed and their actual needs; you're clearly out of your depth. Do the right thing and find him someone who can actually help him thrive.
It’s not aggression, I’m just absolutely stunned!
1) The fact that you haven’t really (apparently) thought about the breed you chose: a Border Collie is one of the most high-energy dogs out there and needs at least 2 to 3 hours of walks every single day to be happy.
2) That you haven't clearly worked out how much time you actually have to dedicate to your puppy. (30 mins a day!!!)
3) That you haven't considered your tolerance for house-training. In your case, a soft toy seems more appropriate!
4) That you’re only asking these questions after getting the dog... when these are the questions you ABSOLUTELY must ask before taking the plunge...
5) The fact that you’re already thinking of rehoming him (which is actually a good idea!) almost as soon as he’s arrived reflects a total lack of preparation.
In short, we’re wondering why you even wanted a dog when an ornament would seem more fitting, and we’re appalled by your irresponsibility... Sorry if that shocks you.
Personally, I’m also a bit surprised that the behaviourist only mentioned an hour’s walk!
One last thing. I adopted a dog less than a year ago and visited three rescue centres. There are a countless number of Border Collies in there, and the same goes for sites like Pets4Homes, all because so many people fall for this "trendy" breed (and they are very beautiful, I admit) without thinking about their needs and the time they can commit to them.
So to conclude, for the sake of your puppy, find him a family that is fully aware of what adopting a Border involves (and any other dog, for that matter!). Because right now, you're heading straight for disaster...
Honestly, this almost feels like a troll post... If you were to ask which breed would be the least suited to just a 30-minute walk a day, the Border Collie would be right at the top of the list! Once he’s fully grown, he’ll need at least two hours of physical exercise a day, and that’s not even counting the mental stimulation he requires. As for keeping the house clean... Autumn is coming, then winter, which means rain, mud, filthy paws, and a mucky coat from running in the grass. You’re heading straight for disaster—please rehome him while he’s still young!
An hour of exercise a day is the bare minimum for a five-month-old Border Collie. Once he reaches adulthood, you’ll need to provide two to three hours of activity every single day. If you aren’t able to do that, then for the sake of your dog’s welfare, I’d advise finding him a new owner straight away—someone who truly understands his exercise needs.
Another question that might sound a bit daft or even out of place... but what’s the deal with hygiene when you have a dog?
- Exactly the same!... with or without a dog! To keep a clean house when you've got a dog (or dogs), you just have to do the cleaning, it’s as simple as that! Yes, definitely more than usual, just like people with kids.
We don't feel like we're up to the task...
- When people say they don't feel up to it, it’s because fundamentally they’re ill-equipped and not suited to managing things... it’s something you should have thought about before getting a dog. Especially a Border Collie. If you aren't capable, you shouldn't take one on!
