How to Take Care of a Border Collie’s Coat

Border Collies are famous for their intelligence, energy, and beautiful long coats. Their fur is dense, with a soft undercoat and longer outer hair, giving them a fluffy and glossy appearance. However, keeping their coat healthy and good-looking requires regular care. Below, we’ll go through coat care from brushing, cleaning, trimming, diet, and daily maintenance.

1. Daily Brushing

A Border Collie’s double coat can easily get tangled, especially behind the ears, under the armpits, on the inner thighs, and around the tail.

• Brushing frequency: Ideally once a day, at least 2–3 times a week.

• Tools: A slicker brush for loose fur, a comb for detangling, and a de-shedding tool during shedding seasons.

• Method: Brush gently in the direction of hair growth first, then lightly against the grain to remove dead hair. If you find knots, don’t pull hard—gently separate them by hand or trim them with scissors.

2. Bathing and Cleaning

Despite being active, Border Collies don’t need frequent baths.

• Bath frequency: Once every 1–2 months is usually enough. Too often can strip natural oils and cause dryness.

• Shampoo: Always use a mild, dog-specific shampoo. Human products are unsuitable.

• Drying: Make sure to blow-dry the coat thoroughly, especially the undercoat, to avoid bacteria buildup and skin issues.

3. Proper Trimming

Border Collies don’t require fancy haircuts, but trimming certain areas helps with cleanliness.

• Trim paw hair to prevent slipping or trapping dirt.

• Trim around the anus to keep the area clean and hygienic.

• Leave the rest of the coat natural to maintain the breed’s fluffy beauty.

4. Diet and Nutrition

A healthy coat starts from within.

• High-quality dog food: Provides essential protein and nutrients.

• Supplements: Salmon oil, fish oil, or flaxseed oil can add shine and softness.

• Natural foods: Chicken breast, beef, and egg yolks supply protein to support coat growth.

• Plenty of water: Keeps the body hydrated and aids coat renewal.

5. Daily Maintenance

Beyond grooming and diet, small details also matter.

• Regular deworming: External parasites can damage skin and coat health.

• Adequate exercise: Border Collies need plenty of activity; a fit body equals a healthy coat.

• Shedding season care: During spring and autumn, they shed heavily—brush and clean more often to reduce mess and keep the environment tidy.