Border Collies are often described as smart, fun-loving dogs that get along well in family environments. This outgoing breed is sociable, athletic, and always vigilant when it comes to watching over their property. They are always looking for attention from their family members and require a great deal of exercise and mental stimulation each day to stay happy and healthy.
However, not all Border Collies are all fun and games. They can be known for getting snippy and using their teeth, and they tend to shed frequently throughout the year. You may have also heard that Border Collies are prone to developing anxiety.
So, is there any truth to this? The short answer is yes, but read on to learn more.
The Border Collie is prone to developing separation anxiety. It may be when they are still puppies, or it might not happen until they become adults—it may never happen! However, the problem is a well-known one in the Border Collie world. Understanding how to avoid anxiety before it begins or how to reverse the problem comes down to knowing what might cause the anxiety.
One study from 2001 showed that dogs with a single adult at home were 2.5 times more likely to have separation anxiety than those with multiple owners.1 Dogs that had not been neutered or spayed were a third as likely to suffer than those that had been sterilized. There is also recent evidence to show that variations in the oxytocin receptor gene are involved in separation anxiety and attachment to their human caregivers.2 This is in combination with the environmental background of the dog. It is unlikely that one factor alone results in separation anxiety. The predisposition of a dog to anxiety and separation anxiety, in particular, can then be enhanced by factors that generally increase stress in certain dogs.
Other factors that may contribute to showing signs of separation anxiety are boredom, lack of exercise, learned clinginess, trauma, and significant life changes. To ensure the overall well-being of your Border Collie, it is important to be aware of these factors and monitor your dog for any signs of anxiety or stress.
Signs of anxiety in Border Collies include excessive pacing, excessive licking, increased vigilance, tucking of the tail, maintaining a low crouch stance, shrinking away from people or things, whimpering, and whining, excessive barking, increased potty accidents, destruction in the household, and drooling regularly. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible.
To minimize the chance that your Border Collie will develop anxiety, you can take a few simple steps. First, ensure that they always feel safe and comfortable in their home. Second, make sure your dog is not left alone for long periods of time. If necessary, hire a dog walker or sitter to spend time with your pet while you’re away. It is also recommended to talk to your veterinarian about your Border Collie’s anxiety issues, as they may be able to prescribe anxiety medication or recommend over-the-counter anxiety treatments if necessary.
Exercise is another important factor in reducing the chance of anxiety. It is not enough to walk your dog whenever you feel like it. It is essential to make exercise a priority and schedule it every day of the week, even if that means waking up earlier or going home during your lunch break. The exercise will help your pup get rid of pent-up energy so they don’t feel frustrated when they are at home alone.
Creating and sticking to a daily schedule is a great way to give your dog confidence and reduce the chance that they will get overwhelmed or develop anxiety. Feeding time, walks, playtime with the kids, and training should follow the same rough pattern timewise whenever possible.
It is also important to strengthen relationships with all family members. Having everyone bond well with the dog will ensure that no matter who is home, the dog won’t feel lonely or become anxious because their companion is away.
Finally, putting your dog to work is another way to reduce the chance of anxiety. Border Collies are natural-born workers, as they were bred to herd livestock animals. Therefore, they thrive when they feel useful through work. Challenge your dog with a puzzle toy that stimulates their mind and encourages them to practice their problem-solving skills. Have them carry your gardening tools for you in a doggy backpack while you’re outside weeding and planting flowers. You can also train and volunteer with your dog at a hospital or senior center to provide support.
In conclusion, Border Collies are susceptible to having anxiety, so it is essential to take steps that will help reduce the chance of them developing anxiety in the first place. Anxiety may be addressed and even reversed with help from your veterinarian and various lifestyle changes. It does take time and consistency, but with proper care, your Border Collie can live a happy and fulfilled life.
