Happy Border Collie, Happy You: The Ultimate Checklist

Happy Border Collie

Ensure your Border Collie thrives with this actionable checklist, organized by frequency and priority. Print and track your progress!


Daily Essentials

Exercise (90–120 minutes total):

  • 45–60 minutes of high-intensity activity (fetch, agility, running)
  • 30+ minutes of mental stimulation (puzzle toys, scent work)
  • 15–20 minutes of leash walking for bonding/exploration

Mental Challenges:

  • Teach 1 new trick/command (3–5 minute sessions)
  • Rotate 3+ interactive toys (Kong Wobbler, Outward Hound puzzles)
  • Practice “off-switch” training (10 minutes of calm-down time)

Nutrition:

  • Feed 2 measured meals (1.5–2.5 cups high-quality kibble/day*)
  • Avoid feeding within 1 hour of vigorous exercise
  • Fresh water is always available (change 2x daily)

Grooming Basics:

  • Quick brush (2 minutes) to prevent mats (rough coats)
  • Wipe paws after outdoor adventures
  • Check eyes/nose for discharge

Weekly Tasks

Training Reinforcement:

  • Review all commands (sit, stay, recall)
  • Practice “leave it” with high-value distractions
  • 1 socialization outing (pet-friendly store, park)

Environment Check:

  • Inspect the yard for escape routes/hazards
  • Wash food/water bowls with hot water
  • Launder dog bedding

Coat Care:

  • Full brushing session (15–20 minutes)
  • Check for ticks/fleas (use a comb if in risk areas)
  • Trim paw hair between pads

Monthly Must-Dos

Health Maintenance:

  • Trim nails (Dremel 7300-PT recommended)
  • Clean ears (Vet’s Best Ear Wash)
  • Brush teeth 3–4x (Virbac C.E.T. enzymatic toothpaste)

Toy & Gear Audit:

  • Discard damaged toys
  • Wash harness/leash
  • Rotate chew toys (bully sticks, antlers)

Weight Check:

  • Weigh at home/vet
  • Adjust food if ±2 lbs from the ideal weight

Seasonal Priorities

Spring/Fall

  • Ramp up shedding care (Furminator 2x/week)
  • Update flea/tick prevention
  • Check for seasonal allergies (itchy paws, red eyes)

Summer

  • Provide cooling mats/frozen treats
  • Trim coat (never shave!)
  • Avoid midday pavement walks

Winter

  • Use paw balm (Musher’s Secret)
  • Add joint supplements (glucosamine)
  • Increase indoor mental games

Every 6 Months

Vet visit for:

  • Dental check
  • Parasite screen
  • Weight/body condition score

Update:


Emergency Prep

Must-Have Kit:

  • Copies of vet records
  • 3-day food/water supply
  • Muzzle & slip lead
  • Pet first-aid app (Pet First Aid by Red Cross)

📞 Emergency Contacts:

  • Nearest 24/7 vet
  • Poison Control:
  • Trusted pet sitter

Life Stage Adjustments

Puppies (8 weeks–1 year):

  • 4–5 small meals/day
  • 5-minute training sessions 8x/day
  • Socialize with 100+ people by 16 weeks

Adults (1–8 years):

  • Annual bloodwork
  • Advanced sports training
  • Breeding/neutering considerations

Seniors (8+ years):

  • Biannual vet checks
  • Orthopedic beds
  • Shorter, frequent walks

Pro Tips

  • Diet Hack: Add 1 tsp canned pumpkin to meals for digestion
  • Exercise Swap: Replace 30 mins walking with swimming for joint health
  • Brain Game: Hide kibble in a muffin tin covered with tennis balls

A tired Border Collie is a happy Border Collie – but mental fatigue beats physical exhaustion every time.”


Consult your vet before making dietary/health changes. Portions vary by age/activity level (average 30 kcal per lb body weight).

This checklist combines practical care with breed-specific needs, helping owners prevent common issues like obesity (25% of pet BCs) and boredom-related destruction. Adjust based on your dog’s individual personality and energy levels!

One thought on “Happy Border Collie, Happy You: The Ultimate Checklist

Leave a Reply