Border collies are amongst the most active dogs and need regular exercise. They are not a good choice for couch potatoes or people who live in apartments.
Because border collies have been bred for centuries to work as herders — sheep, cattle, and goats — they have a lot of energy and need a lot of exercise.
PUPPY GAMES: The Importance of Play
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Playing and having fun helps to eliminate stress from your life and the same holds true for your dog. In fact, incorporating various forms of play into your dog's daily routine is vital to helping him develop a healthy, loving personality.
Here are some of the ways that playing and having fun is important:
💪PHYSICAL HEALTH
Active play helps keep your dog's heart healthy, keeps the joints lubricated, and improves his overall balance and coordination.
🧠MENTAL HEALTH
Games with rules force your dog to use his brain, not just his body. This can help keep his mind sharp and focused.
🎾SOCIAL SKILLS
When your dog plays with other dogs and other people, it helps improve his overall social skills. He learns basic rules and how to play by them.
Bonding. Even if it's only for a few minutes a day, playing with your dog helps strengthen the bond between you.
🩺YOUR HEALTH
What better way to alleviate the stress of a busy workday and get a bit of exercise than to come home and play with your dog? It's a win-win for both of you.
📌HOW TO PLAY WITH YOUR DOG
There are right ways—and wrong ways—to play. The most important thing to remember is that you're the boss. You decide what games should be played and you set the rules. This helps establish your credibility as the pack leader. It also helps keep your dog from getting overly excited and out of control while you play. If your dog does become difficult to manage, simply put a stop to the game until he calms down again.
When you're teaching your dog a new game, reward him when he does well. Remember, rewards don't have to be just treats. You can also reward him with his favorite toys or lots of hugs and praise.
When you start out teaching your dog a new game, keep it simple and go through the game slowly, until your dog fully grasps the rules. Also, wait until he fully understands one game before you teach him a