Don’t get me wrong, I love my pup – but in retrospect, I shouldn’t have chosen such an overstimulated, high-energy breed
A PET owner has sparked a discussion about challenging dog breeds after confessing they regret their choice.
She vented frustration with the dog’s high energy and need for attention.
The animal lover wrote under the name Kelli_rad on Reddit’s Puppy 101 forum after recently becoming a dog owner.
“Don’t get me wrong, I love my pup,” she said.
“But in retrospect, I wouldn’t have chosen a Border Collie mix.
“I did my research beforehand, of course, but I misjudged his energy needs.
“We exercise for over 2 hours a day, which is great for my discipline, but really cuts into other things I love to do.
“Plus, he is a really excitable guy.
“We have to work soooo hard on making sure he doesn’t get overstimulated or he just jumps and bites and lunges.
“I think I would go with a King Cavalier next time. Sweet and a little easier on the nervous system.”
In an update posted five months later, the Redditor shared hopes her dog would become a “wonderful boy” as he ages.
“I’m grateful we live on a 27-acre farm or there would be no way I would have gotten a Border Collie x German Shepherd mix!” she added.
“He’s very smart.
“I’m wondering if it’s not so much the mix that I’m struggling with but the puppy in him!”
Signs your dog could turn dangerous
Expert advice from Dr. Sara Ochoa, who has been practicing veterinary medicine for over five years.
Ochoa told The U.S. Sun observing a dog’s behavior can provide clues that they might act out.
“A dog that looks tense all over with its fur sticking up or teeth showing is more likely to snap,” she said.
“Staring real hard without blinking could mean trouble too.
“Growling is also a warning the dog is getting mad.”
She said dogs may tuck their tail between their legs when they feel scared or threatened.
“Staying calm and keeping space may help things not to escalate if a dog seems on edge,” she said.
According to the American Kennel Club, Border Collies have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years and can weigh up to 55 pounds.
They are best suited to active owners with space to run as they require more than just a daily walk.
Also considered sheepdogs, the “highly intelligent” breed needs a lifetime of obedience training to stimulate their minds.
PET PEEVES
Many people up-voted the Reddit post and attempted to reassure the pet owner that her dog would become less demanding in time.
“I can hardly handle my puppy Pomeranian lol,” one person wrote.
“My friend had a border collie and she was super high-strung. I think all puppies are like that.
“I’m sure my Pom will calm down once she gets all her shots and can go for her walks.”
Another commenter said it’s “important” for animal lovers to familiarize themselves with different breeds before bringing them into their home.
“That said, I am sure things will settle down and you will figure out what wears him out the most & fastest!” they said.
“A lot of border collies can go alllll day and not be tired so I would work in some more mental exercise and maybe you can cut some of the other exercise down.
“They are a lot of dog and can get a little neurotic if they aren’t getting enough mental stimulation.
“But ALL puppies are trouble.
“I look forward to my girl being an adult and being a calm dignified couch potato but we got a looong way to go yet before that sets in lol.”