Discover the best gifts for border collie enthusiasts and their sheep herding dogs. From personalized items to practical presents, find unique gift ideas for the border collie lover in your life
A Border Collie Love Story
My love affair with border collies began when I met my first one at a sheep herding demonstration. I was mesmerized by the intense focus, lightning speed, and uncanny intelligence this dog displayed while masterfully maneuvering the flock. Right then, I knew I had to have one of these magnificent creatures in my life.
Fast forward a few years, and I'm now the proud owner of two border collies - Max and Luna. They bring immense joy, laughter, and occasional chaos into my world. As a writer for Bark & Wag Magazine, I've had the pleasure of researching and testing out various gifts for border collie lovers like myself.
In my opinion, the best gifts for border collie enthusiasts are those that celebrate the unique personality and herding heritage of this special breed. Whether you're shopping for a devoted owner or looking to spoil a hardworking herding hound, there are plenty of pawsome options to choose from.
Gifts That Celebrate the Border Collie Spirit
1. Personalized Portraits and Prints
One of my favorite gift ideas is a personalized portrait or print featuring the recipient's beloved border collie. Many talented artists on platforms like Etsy offer custom artwork based on photos you provide. These one-of-a-kind pieces capture the essence of each individual dog and make for cherished keepsakes.
I recently commissioned a watercolor painting of Max and Luna from the artist behind Splash of Pet. The level of detail and personality she captured was incredible - it's now proudly displayed in my living room.
2. Border Collie-Themed Apparel and Accessories
For the fashion-forward border collie fan, consider gifting apparel or accessories adorned with their favorite breed. From t-shirts and hoodies to hats and tote bags, there's no shortage of options.
One brand that consistently delivers high-quality, stylish designs is The Barking Dog. Their "Anatomy of a Border Collie" shirt is a hit among owners who appreciate the breed's unique physical and mental attributes.
3. Breed-Specific Books and Stationery
Border collie lovers are often eager to learn more about their beloved breed. Books that delve into the history, training, and care of these dogs make excellent gifts. Some top titles include:
- "The Intelligence of Dogs" by Stanley Coren
- "The Border Collie: A Complete and Comprehensive Owners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your Border Collie" by Michael Morales
- "Eminent Dogs, Dangerous Men: Searching Through Scotland for a Border Collie" by Donald McCaig
For the writer or artist in your life, consider stationery items like notebooks or sketchpads featuring border collie imagery. Zazzle offers a wide selection of customizable border collie stationery.
Gifts for the Hardworking Herding Hound
1. Durable Toys for Energetic Play
Border collies are known for their boundless energy and love of play. When selecting toys for these active dogs, durability is key. Some top picks include:
- Kong Classic Dog Toy: This tough rubber toy can withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers. Stuff it with treats for added entertainment.
- Chuckit! Ultra Ball: These high-bounce balls are perfect for endless games of fetch. They're easy to spot in tall grass and float in water.
- Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy: This interactive toy challenges your border collie's problem-solving skills as they try to extract the hidden plush squirrels.
According to a study by the University of Bristol, puzzle toys can help reduce stress and improve the well-being of dogs.
2. Gear for Outdoor Adventures
Border collies thrive on having a job to do, whether it's herding sheep or accompanying their owner on hikes and camping trips. Equip your adventurous pup with gear like:
- Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness: This comfortable, padded harness is perfect for all-day wear during hikes and other outdoor excursions.
- Kurgo Collaps-A-Bowl: This portable water bowl collapses flat for easy packing and is perfect for keeping your border collie hydrated on the go.
- Nite Ize SpotLit LED Collar Light: Keep your dog visible during early morning or evening adventures with this bright, long-lasting collar light.
3. Training and Agility Equipment
Many border collie owners enjoy participating in dog sports like agility, flyball, and disc dog competitions. Support their training efforts with gifts like:
- Agility Starter Kit: This kit includes essential equipment like weave poles, a tunnel, and jumps to practice agility skills at home.
- Herding Ball: These large, durable balls mimic the movement of livestock and can provide hours of herding fun for your border collie.
- Treat Pouch: A convenient treat pouch allows for quick rewards during training sessions. Look for one with a waist strap or belt clip for hands-free use.
The American Kennel Club reports that participation in dog sports has grown significantly in recent years, with agility being one of the most popular events.
Unique and Personalized Gift Ideas
1. Custom Cookie Cutters
For the baker in your life, consider a custom cookie cutter in the shape of their border collie. Etsy seller The Barkery Boutique creates adorable breed-specific cookie cutters that can be personalized with the dog's name.
2. Paw Print Jewelry
Capture your border collie's unique paw print with a piece of custom jewelry. Many Etsy sellers offer necklaces, bracelets, and keychains that feature an imprint of your dog's actual paw. It's a sentimental way to keep them close to your heart.
3. Subscription Boxes
Surprise your favorite border collie duo with a monthly subscription box filled with toys, treats, and gear. Some popular options include:
- BarkBox: Each month, your dog receives a box tailored to their size and chewing style. Boxes include innovative toys, all-natural treats, and a chew.
- PupBox: This box grows with your puppy, providing age-appropriate toys, treats, and training aids. It's perfect for new border collie owners.
- Super Chewer Box: For dogs who tend to destroy toys in record time, this box features extra-durable toys and chews that can withstand even the toughest border collie jaws.
According to a report by Packaged Facts, the pet subscription box market has grown rapidly in recent years, with more than 18 million boxes shipped in 2019.
Conclusion
As a border collie owner and lover, I know firsthand the joy these incredible dogs bring to our lives. When selecting gifts for fellow enthusiasts or their herding hounds, look for items that celebrate the breed's unique personality, intelligence, and athleticism.
Whether it's a personalized portrait, a durable toy, or a piece of training equipment, the best gifts are those that strengthen the bond between dog and owner. As I watch Max and Luna play with their new herding ball or snuggle up on their custom-embroidered bed, I'm reminded of the love and loyalty that make border collies such special companions.
So go ahead and spoil the border collie lover in your life - they deserve it! And who knows, you might just inspire them to adopt another one. After all, as the saying goes, "Two border collies are better than one."