Grooming Tips for the Border Collie
COAT There are two varieties of Border Collie. Both have a soft, dense, weather resistant double coat. In puppies, the coat is short, soft, dense and water resistant, becoming the undercoat in adult dogs. The rough coat is medium to long, texture from flat to slightly wavy. Short and smooth coat on face. Forelegs feathered. Rear pasterns may have coat trimmed short. With advancing age, coats may become very wavy and are not faulted. The smooth coat is short over entire body. May have feathering on forelegs and fuller coat on chest.
CHARACTER The Border Collie is intelligent, alert and responsive. Affectionate towards friends, he may be sensibly reserved towards strangers and therefore makes an excellent watchdog. An intensive worker while herding, he is eager to learn and to please, and thrives on human companionship
RECOMMENDED CINDRA PRODUCTS:
| Problem | Solution |
| Detangling/Dematting |
|
| Dry, Damaged Coat | Our version of a hot oil treatment: Wet dog with warm water, apply Moisture Plus liberally. Wrap in hot towel for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo with Moisturizing Shampoo and rinse. |
| Increase Undercoat | Line brush daily with Maxicare as soon as dog is finished shedding |
| Dingy White Coat |
Use Cleansing Shampoo on the first lather, wait 5 minutes then rinse Follow with Texturizing Shampoo lather and rinse. |
| Showing on a hot, dry day |
Use Maxicare as your only coat dressing |
| Showing without full undercoat | Texturizing Mist (diluted 50:50 with water) while line brushing will hold coat up long enough for judging. |
| Spot Whitening/Urine Stains | Use a small amount of Cleansing Shampoo full strength, wait 5 minutes and rinse |
| Extra Volume | Super Coat (diluted 50-50 with water) while line brushing. If very humid try Texturizing Mist instead |
| Shedding around house | Spray with Maxicare and brush daily. Be sure to get down to skin. Nothing will prevent shedding completely. It is a normal, necessary process for these breeds |
Border Collie Grooming Guide
How to Groom Your Border Collie Like a Pro
Border Collies are not just known for their intelligence and agility but also for their stunning, unique coats. With their double coat and active lifestyle, keeping your Border Collie looking and feeling their best requires some extra attention. Whether you’re a new owner or looking to up your grooming game, here’s everything you need to know about Border Collie grooming.
The Border Collie Coat: What Makes It Special?
The Border Collie’s double coat is a work of art. The soft undercoat provides insulation, while the outer coat protects against dirt, water, and harsh weather. But this luxurious coat doesn’t take care of itself. Regular grooming is a must to prevent tangles, reduce shedding, and maintain their natural shine.
Border Collies come in a variety of coat types, from smooth and sleek to long and feathered. While smooth-coated Collies are easier to maintain, long-coated ones require more frequent brushing to prevent matting, especially around the tail, legs, and ears.
How Often Should You Groom a Border Collie?
Grooming your Border Collie three times a week is a good starting point. During seasonal shedding (spring and fall), you might need to brush daily to keep loose hair under control. If you begin grooming when your dog is a puppy, they’ll learn to enjoy the process, making it easier for both of you as they grow.
Do Border Collies Need Haircuts?
Generally, Border Collies do not need haircuts. Their coat is designed to protect them year-round, and trimming too much can disrupt its natural function. Instead of shaving or clipping, focus on light trimming in areas prone to tangles, like the feet, ears, and tail, to keep them neat and comfortable.
Bathing Your Border Collie
Bathing your Border Collie doesn’t have to be a frequent task. Only wash them when necessary—like after a muddy hike or an especially messy play session. Overbathing can strip their coat of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, such as Cindra's Cleansing Shampoo or Cindra's Moisturizing Shampoo, to keep their coat healthy. Rinse thoroughly and ensure they are completely dry to prevent matting.
Best Grooming Tools for Border Collies
Having the right tools can make all the difference when it comes to grooming:
- Slicker Brush: Great for tackling tangles and keeping the coat smooth.
- Undercoat Rake: Perfect for removing loose hair from the dense undercoat, especially during shedding seasons.
- Pin Brush: Ideal for removing dirt and maintaining a sleek finish.
For long-coated Collies, invest in high-quality grooming scissors to tidy up feathered areas and ensure your pup looks polished.
Keeping Their Coat Healthy and Shiny
A shiny coat isn’t just about appearance—it’s a sign of a healthy dog. Regular brushing distributes the natural oils in their coat, enhancing shine and softness. Pair this with a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and your Border Collie’s coat will practically glow.
Special Tips for Working Border Collies
If your Border Collie participates in agility or other high-energy activities, their grooming needs may differ slightly. Trim feathering around their paws and tail for better mobility, and check their paws regularly for debris or damage. Paw balms or protective booties can provide extra comfort and protection during demanding activities.
Final Thoughts
Border Collies may have high grooming needs, but the results are worth it. A consistent grooming routine not only keeps them looking their best but also ensures their coat stays healthy and functional. Plus, grooming is a great way to bond with your dog. With the right tools and techniques, you’ll master the art of Border Collie grooming and have a happy, healthy pup to show for it!