[StephenO]

Hello everyone!

I am moving out of my apartment into a house and I have been searching for the right dog for me for some time now. This would be my first dog due to parents early on and apartment life after that. I, however, have been around dogs all my life.

I fell in love with Border Collies. I am aware of their hyperactivity and need for a TON of exercise. I am a very active 25yr old male. I jog, swim, hike, and bike regularly. The house is medium sized and has 1/3 acre grass yard with unlimited amount of woods beyond that. There is a park 1/4 mile away with a huge field which is perfect for playing frisbee, ball and other such activities. I don't think that exercise would be a problem.

However, I work Monday - Friday from 8am - 4pm. The research I have done says that if you work all day that this breed is not right for you. Should I be concerned and search for another breed? Surely not all Border Collie owners stay at home all day. I am sure this could go either way but I would like to hear some opinions about this.

Thank you for your time,
-Stephen

[natalie265]

Being gone during the day will be a problem for housebreaking a puppy (any breed). Would you consider adopting an adult dog? You could check breed rescue programs in your area. I know border collies are a demanding breed, but personally, i wouldn't rule them out for you.

[StephenO]

Thank you for your response natalie265. I was not planning on adopting an adult dog, but I am not totally opposed to the idea. My only fear is even though the dog may be house broken, it will have bad habits that are too late to fix.

I was already expecting it to be a little difficult with house breaking considering I would be away for a while. I don't think it is anything I can't handle.

[Lara's mom]

I love border collies. They are incredibly intelligent and all around great dogs. However, they need a great deal of exercise and a "job" or they will find one of their own. This is not the best breed for someone who cannot spend a lot of time with their dog.

[Lunareclipse]

A bad habit is never too late to fix. Check out the humane society. You'll find most of the dogs there aren't there for being bad. Sometimes they have too much energy and sometimes the person can't afford the dog. And sometimes the person moved. And puppies get turned in there too because some people can't find a home for them. Read the "His name is Sam" story.

[StephenO]

After some consideration, I am going to look into adoption. I think this is a good route for a first time owner. I am not going to be breed specific during the process. Thank you for all of your replies.

-Stephen