Happy Border Collie, Happy You: The Ultimate Checklist

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:

• Microchip info
• Training certifications (AKC Canine Good Citizen)
• Insurance coverage

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!