Sarge resides in the countryside with his family. He’s an exceptional herding dog whose initial job description included keeping tabs on the family cow, Daisy. But that isn’t the case anymore because somewhere along the way, this beautiful Border Collie decided that herding Daisy wasn’t a cool work concept anymore. So, he settled for a full-blown friendship with Daisy.

A heart-melting video capturing their unexpected bond has gone viral on TikTok, and we have no doubts it’ll make your day.

Besties Above Everything

Sarge no longer sees Daisy as a cow to herd. These two have become inseparable besties, so much so that they spend almost all their time hanging out. The TikTok video, posted by Sarge’s mom @dakotafunnyfarm, captures Sarge & Daisy taking naps on the field side by side, licking each other affectionately, and sitting close together as they watch the world go by.

Their friendship isn’t the loud kind; no endless barking or mooing to express what they feel for one another. It’s more of just basking in each other’s quiet presence, endless licking, and soulful glances. From the video, you can tell that Sarge & Daisy aren’t simply tolerating each other’s company. They genuinely love hanging out.

Whenever Daisy wanders off into the open field, Sarge doesn’t run frantically to round her up as a herding dog would. Instead, he leisurely follows Daisy to where she is before joining her for some uninterrupted bonding time away from their mom. Sarge doesn’t seem to care that he’s broken every professional herding rule in the canine world. And going by the look of contentment on his face when he’s huddled against Daisy’s big body, it’s obvious that choosing friendship over work is the best decision he’s ever made. 

Sure, Sarge and Daisy the Cow may have nothing in common as far as species is concerned. But it’s clear that the connection they share makes total sense to them, even if it baffles everyone else watching. Friendship goals, if you ask us!

Watch their video below:

@dakotafunnyfarm opposites attract right? #bordercollie #goldenretriever #cows #fyp ♬ Right Above It (Originally Performed By Lil Wayne feat. Drake) [Instrumental Version] – Single – Remix Radio DJ

Internet Left Sobbing Happy Tears

Sarge and Daisy’s video has garnered 4.3 million views so far. We’re not surprised that the comments section is flooded with the sweetest reactions from people who can’t get enough of this friendship.

“Sometimes you become friends with coworkers. It happens,” reads one comment.

“The cutest video ever!” a second person wrote. 

“Unlikely animal friends is my favorite thing in the whole world,” another added. 

But I also knew: this wasn’t the whole story. This wasn’t who Leonis was. This was survival mode. And my job was to help him find his way back.

First Impressions: A Freeze That Wasn’t Really Freeze

Most people think of fight or flight when they picture fear. But there’s another response—freeze. Dogs like Leonis sometimes take it a step further, into what I call “form.” It’s almost a performance: If I act small enough, compliant enough, maybe the world will leave me alone.

His breathing was heavy, his paws—giant puppy mittens—shook under him. But those alert herding-dog eyes told me he wasn’t checked out. He was paying attention, just terrified.

Who Is Leonis? A Border Collie Mix With a Big Backstory

Once I got his file, the pieces started falling into place. Leonis is about three years old and likely a Border Collie mix, maybe with Australian Shepherd or even Husky in the blend. His striking bandit mask and piercing eyes certainly point that way.

That means he’s smart—really smart. These breeds are built to work, think, and problem-solve all day long. Stuck in a kennel with no outlet, their minds race circles until they burn out. It’s like handing Einstein a crossword puzzle and locking him in a closet.

And Leonis has been locked in that kennel for a while. He came into Riverside County’s San Jacinto Animal Shelter just before the Fourth of July. Fireworks season is notorious for lost dogs, and staff suspect he may have bolted in fear.

But his time at the shelter took another tough turn: weeks in, he got into a scuffle with a kennelmate. The other dog injured him badly enough to need staples. Leonis recovered physically, but the trauma left its mark.

After that, his confidence plummeted. Alone in his kennel, his fear only deepened.

Small Wins: Muffins, Pac-Man, and Friendship Bites

So, how do you rebuild trust with a dog like Leonis? Slowly. Patiently. And with snacks.

I started with what I call “friendship bites.” You know how if a neighbor brings you fresh-baked muffins, you suddenly see them in a new light? Same principle here. A little jerky here, a biscuit there, with time in between so Leonis had a chance to think: That felt good. Maybe I want more.

Then we moved on to what I call the Pac-Man game. I lined up treats in a trail, each one a step closer to me. Leonis sniffed, nibbled, thought it over… then bravely crept forward for the next one. Watching him work the puzzle with that sharp Border Collie brain was magic. Every treat was a victory.

Training Takeaway: Make Room for Bravery

Here’s a tip you can use with your own nervous pup:

• Engage their senses. A fearful dog is often 100% fear. Smell and taste are powerful enough to carve out space for something else.
• Give them time. Don’t rapid-fire treats. Space them out so your dog can process and choose to re-engage.
• Celebrate the first step. The goal isn’t a perfect sit or roll-over—it’s that tiny brave moment where they decide fear won’t win.

That’s the real trophy.

Love Letters & The Scoop

One of the best parts of this session? Leonis got to open packages from you—our Sitting With Dogs community. Bandanas, toys, donations, even hand-written letters from kids cheering him on.

At first, Leonis wasn’t sure what to do with a toy. Then, click—the squeaker went off, and his whole body lit up. Tail swish. Head tilt. The beginnings of play. Watching him experience joy again, even just for a second, was the highlight of my day.

That’s the scoop: connection matters. Not just from me, but from all of you. Every package, every word of encouragement helps these dogs remember the world isn’t only scary—it can be full of kindness.

Why His Name Matters

The shelter staff nicknamed him Leonis, which means “lion-like” or “brave.” It’s not just a name—it’s a promise. A vision of the dog he’s meant to become: strong, confident, free.

When I said it out loud, his ears perked. He knew. That’s me.

Next Steps: Be the Leader Leonis Deserves

Leonis is young, whip-smart, and packed with energy. He needs a person who will give him structure, exercise, and leadership—the kind that herding breeds thrive under. He’s not a dog for someone looking for a couch potato. But if you want a partner for hikes, training, or just keeping your brain sharp alongside his, Leonis will be the most loyal teammate you’ve ever had.

And he’s ready. He’s been ready since July.

If you have room in your life for this brave boy, reach out to San Jacinto Animal Shelter (Riverside County Animal Services). If you can’t adopt, please share his story—because you never know who in your circle is searching for their soul dog.

Leonis, the lion-hearted. He’s waiting. And the first brave step is already behind him.

That’s when she met two kindhearted sheepdogs who welcomed her into their pack, and from that moment on, Lil started living life the dog way.

A Shunned Runt

Born a tiny triplet on a farm in Wiltshire, England, Lil came into the world weighing just one-third of a normal baby goat, only 5 inches tall, while normally newborns stand nearly a foot high. Since Lil was too weak to suckle, she was left out by her mother, who tended to her stronger babies instead by feeding and washing them. 

That meant Lil was not only hungry but also cold and motherless. Farm manager Julia Stewart and her team tube-fed the goat and used straw and towels to keep the newborn as warm as possible. They tried leaving her with her mother for a night, but it quickly became clear she wouldn’t survive like that. 

So, the staff made a tough but life-saving choice. They moved Lil into their caravan, which is used as an office and staff room. “You don’t take them away from their mum unless you really have to,” says Julia.

New Beginning With Border Collies

The caravan just so happens to be home to two Border Collies, Luna and Nya, the farm’s working sheepdogs. From the very beginning, the pups took Lil under their wing, treating her like one of their own. They groom her, play with her, and even snuggle her to sleep.

Now, the goat is five weeks old and thriving as a new member of the sheepdog family. She has started to think that she’s a sheepdog herself, as she can be seen copying Luna and Nye in rounding up the flock. 

Lil is now much more interested in dogs than her own species. If she is ever left with the goats, she overtly voices her unhappiness and would rather be with Julia and the dogs. 

Julia and the staff definitely find it unusual but also fascinating as they plan to continue Lil’s training to be a sheepdog under her friend Nye’s tutelage. Julia states, “Lil will always have that special bond with the dogs.”

I usually start these stories with a dog in a kennel. But this one? This one started with a text.

Mel—the amazing groomer from Animal Friends of the Valleys—reached out with a photo of a dog that stopped me in my tracks. A beautiful border collie… with half her face missing. That’s not an exaggeration. Her eye looked gone, her skull visibly deformed, and her coat matted with the kind of grime that takes years to accumulate.

Mel had started grooming her. And then she fell in love.

And when Mel falls in love? I listen.

Cassie’s Backstory

We don’t know everything that happened to Cassie before she was found wandering the streets of a neighboring city. But we do know this: she was picked up and rushed to an emergency vet, then brought to the shelter by animal control. No microchip. No collar. No one looking for her.

She’s about seven years old—middle-aged for a border collie—and despite the trauma she’s been through, Cassie still wags her tail. She still trusts. And she still lives in the moment. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: dogs are better than us.

Grooming Cassie

Mel, who once took in a severely neglected shepherd named Macy, gave Cassie the same unconditional care. She carefully covered Cassie’s wound with a cloth, gently bathed her, and even gave her a toy—maybe her first ever.

There was a moment during that grooming session that I won’t forget: Cassie caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Just a second. Just a glance. And it was like she stood a little taller. Like she saw herself—not just the injury. That’s what love can do.

Mel gave her a name, too: Cassie. And it suits her perfectly.

Medical Reality Check

When I first saw Cassie’s injury, I assumed the worst—maybe cancer, maybe blunt force trauma. And to be honest, I saw dollar signs. Something this severe could easily cost $10,000… $20,000… maybe more. Most shelters just don’t have the resources for a case like this.

But my heart wouldn’t let me walk away.

Cassie had visible mammary tumors, bad teeth, and that gaping wound where her eye should be. I was prepared for palliative care, if that’s all we could offer. But then—hope showed up.

There’s an Eye Under There!

After driving her to Rancho Cucamonga to meet with Dr. Carol—a vet with a heart as big as her surgical skills—we got shocking news.

Under all that tissue, swelling, and damage…

Cassie’s eye was still there.

It’s functional. It’s savable.

I’ve seen a lot in rescue, but this? I’ve never seen anything like it. I genuinely thought her eye was gone. But this girl? She just keeps surprising us.

Breed Breakdown: Why Cassie’s a Classic Collie

Cassie is 100% border collie—freckles, fur fringe, and all. This breed is known for intelligence, agility, and deep loyalty. They’re herders by nature, thinkers by default, and companions for life.

And Cassie? Even in her condition, she’s still alert, aware, and gentle. It’s no wonder Mel—who’s had border collies herself—felt an instant connection.

Training Tip: Affirmations Work Wonders

When a dog is this physically broken, emotional healing becomes just as important. I used positive affirmations with Cassie the minute I sat with her:

“You’re safe now.”
“You’re a good girl.”
“You didn’t deserve this.”

Never underestimate the power of your voice. A calm presence, kind words, and soft hands can build trust faster than any treat. (But let’s be real—treats help, too.)

Next Steps: Surgery, Recovery & Flip’s Farm

Cassie’s undergoing a full assessment—staging for possible cancer, bloodwork, X-rays, and ultrasounds. If the results are positive, she’ll undergo surgery to remove the mammary tumors, fix her eye, and finally get the dental care she desperately needs.

And then?

She’s headed to Flip’s Farm, where the birds chirp, the coffee trees grow, and the dogs heal. It’s a place built for dogs like Cassie. Dogs who were discarded and overlooked but still have so much love left to give.

Want to Help?

Every cup of Flip Coffee funds stories like this. Every monthly member, every purchase, every share—it’s all part of a mission to turn pain into peace for dogs like Cassie.

If you’re watching Cassie’s story and thinking how can I help?—here’s how:

• Become a monthly member
• Buy Flip Coffee
• Subscribe to my emails
• Share Cassie’s story
• Or just send her your love. That matters, too.

Thanks for sticking with me. Rescue is messy. It’s emotional. But it’s also magic.

And Cassie? She’s about to experience a whole lot more of it.

Starting From Zero

When I first sat down with Zeus, it was clear we were starting from scratch. He was nervous, blinking like crazy, and staying as far back in his kennel as he could. You know how people tend to adopt dogs that wag their tails and make eye contact? Zeus wasn’t doing any of that. He was shutting down. If we didn’t do something to help him come out of his shell, he might just get overlooked—and in shelters, that’s a dangerous place to be.

Zeus took a little bit to warm up, but I noticed something: even though he was scared, he wasn’t completely closed off. He started sniffing the air around me, his nose working overtime. That’s a good sign—it’s like a dog’s way of testing the waters. I figured if I could get him to take a treat, we’d be on the right track.

Hunger or Trust?

Now, here’s the thing with shelter dogs like Zeus—you’ve gotta be careful not to mistake hunger for trust. When a dog is as skinny as Zeus, they’re gonna be all about the food, but that doesn’t mean they trust you yet. So, I gave him a few treats, and sure enough, he took them. At first, I wasn’t sure if he was just starving or if we were actually making progress. But then something clicked. He started coming a little closer, cautiously, but willingly.

With each treat, Zeus was learning that maybe people aren’t so bad after all. That’s a huge deal for a dog like him, who’s probably been let down more than once.

Two Collars, No Answers

Zeus showed up at the shelter with not one but two collars, and neither had an ID tag or any kind of information. No microchip, nothing. It’s one of those frustrating mysteries.

Officer Matthews, the animal control officer who found him, shared how Zeus had been spotted wandering on and off a property for a while. When the officer arrived, Zeus was crossing a busy street, and Matthews had to stop traffic to make sure he didn’t get hit. It was clear from the start that Zeus was skittish and afraid, but the officer was patient, sitting down on the ground and offering jerky treats to earn his trust.

Zeus, cautious but hungry, eventually started inching closer, lured by the treats. The officer noted that Zeus had two collars but no microchip or ID tag, making it impossible to track down an owner. It’s possible Zeus had been roaming for days, maybe even weeks, before finally being brought to safety. The fact that no one claimed him still leaves a lot of questions, but what’s clear is that Zeus was in need of help—and now, he’s getting the care and attention he deserves.

Fear or Just Tired?

Zeus wasn’t just scared—he was exhausted. A lot of dogs in shelters don’t sleep well because the environment is so stressful. But after spending some time together, I noticed Zeus starting to calm down. His rapid blinking slowed, and he seemed to realize that he didn’t have to be on high alert anymore. I watched his body language shift—his tail wasn’t tucked as tightly, and his eyes weren’t as frantic.

Was he nervous? Sure. But he was also tired. Sometimes, all these dogs need is a little companionship to relax and remember what it’s like to just be a dog.

A Toy Brings Out His Playful Side

After some time sitting with Zeus, I decided to try something different—a toy. I pulled out a squeaky toy, not really sure what his reaction would be. At first, he just stared at it, like he wasn’t sure what to make of it. I gave it a little squeak, and that’s when his ears perked up. For a second, I could see a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes, something we hadn’t seen all day.

I tossed the toy gently in his direction, and while he didn’t go all out for it, he did sniff at it, nudging it a little with his nose. It wasn’t a full-blown playful reaction, but it was something. It was like Zeus was starting to remember what it felt like to be a dog again, and that’s a huge win. Slowly but surely, he’s coming back to life—one small step at a time.

Cleaning Zeus Up: A New Beginning

We were lucky to have Mel, the shelter groomer, step in to give Zeus the spa treatment he desperately needed. He was filthy—his coat was matted, and you could barely see the beautiful black-and-white pattern underneath all that grime. The lavender shampoo was calming, and even though Zeus wasn’t a big fan of the dryer, he let Mel do her thing.

By the end of the grooming session, Zeus looked like a different dog. But more importantly, he felt different. His posture changed, and there was a hint of confidence creeping in. He still had a long way to go, but you could tell that being clean and cared for made a difference.

What’s Next for Zeus?

Zeus has made some progress, but he still needs help. Border Collies are working dogs—they need to be mentally and physically challenged, and they need structure. Zeus is going to need a home where someone understands that and is willing to put in the effort. He’s smart, loyal, and once he fully trusts someone, he’s going to be an incredible companion.

But right now, he’s in a vulnerable spot. The good news is that he’s starting to come out of his shell. He’s accepting treats, showing signs of trust, and even coming to the front of his kennel instead of hiding in the back. That’s a huge win.

So, here’s where you come in. Zeus needs a home, and the best way to help him find one is by sharing his story. Let’s get the word out and find Zeus the forever family he deserves. He’s been through enough, and it’s time for him to finally know what it’s like to be wanted.

This is exactly what one owner did when her pregnant foster dog — a lovely Border Collie named Daffodil — sought emotional support from her when she was experiencing contractions. In a video shared to TikTok by the dog’s owner, @rachelfusaro, a visibly anxious Daffodil can be seen stretching out her paw as Rachel reassuringly pets her while offering words of comfort.

A text layered over the clip reads: “Your *very* pregnant foster dog is starting contractions & you’re doing everything you can to comfort her.”

Rachel also revealed that all Daffodil wanted was “tummy rubs and snuggles,” which she offered without hesitation. Truly, it’s the simple things that can mean the world to a pregnant pup. 

Watch the touching video below:

@rachelfusaro When she did *this* I about lost it 😭 If you’ve been following along, you know Daffodil 🌼 just gave birth but I took this video hours before she delivered her first puppy… She started having contractions and ALL she wanted was tummy rubs and snuggles – of course I obliged🥹 I’ll be sharing her full birth story soon but in this moment, we had no idea what was about to come… her birth was an adventure & even more her postpartum journey has been… challenging to say the least But she’s got this. She’s doing a little better each day, and her puppies are really growing nicely When I brought her home from the shelter to foster her, I had no idea how much she’d impact my life in just 72 hours… And we’re so thankful for you following her story Daffodil is really as sweet as she looks. She asks for so little yet gives so much 💜🌼 To see how I nurse her back to health & train her puppies, follow along! #daffodils #fosterdog #shelterdog #rescuedogsofinstagram #bordercollies @Jason Debus Heigl Foundation ♬ what was I made for? – Instrumental – Wheeler

According to Rachel — who volunteers at a local Humane Society — Daffodil was brought to the shelter as a stray while heavily pregnant and underweight.

Sadly, the shelter suspects she may have been used as a breeding dog. Rachel was instantly drawn to Daffodil and couldn’t imagine her giving birth at the shelter, prompting her to offer this sweet-faced pup a foster home. And after enduring hours of contractions, Daffodil eventually gave birth to nine puppies.

Unfortunately, three of the puppies passed away, a classic sign of fading puppy syndrome. The good news is, Daffodil and her remaining puppies are faring well, all thanks to Rachel, who’s committed to providing them the care, nutrition, and pampering they need to stay happy and healthy. 

Dog Pregnancy: How Long Are Dogs Pregnant? 

According to experts at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, the pregnancy period in dogs — also referred to as the dog gestation period — lasts approximately 63 days. This, however, can vary from dog to dog by a few days. 

If you find out your dog is pregnant after a planned mating, you’ll likely want to know their due date. Thankfully, there’s a simple formula to help you estimate your furry friend’s due date, according to Dr. Lindsay Butzer of Clint Moore Animal Hospital: Exact date of mating + 63 days = due date. 

Dog Pregnancy Symptoms: Telltale Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

When your female dog is pregnant, they’ll exhibit a host of symptoms during the course of their pregnancy. More often than not, these signs will be subtle during the first few weeks after your pup becomes pregnant but become obvious as weeks go by: 

Some of the early signs of pregnancy in dogs include:

• Decrease in appetite 
• Morning sickness (due to hormonal changes) 
• Constant tiredness

When your dog clocks around one month into pregnancy, some of the symptoms you can expect to see include:

• Increased appetite
• Decreased activity 
• Increased affectionate behavior
• Clear discharge from her vagina
• Nipples become enlarged and pinkish in color 
• Noticeable weight gain
• Enlarged abdomen
• Increased urination
• Visible puppy movements in their belly 

During the last few days of your dog’s pregnancy, you’ll notice symptoms such as:

• Her waist appears trim (as the unborn puppies start taking the whelping position in the birth canal) 
• Milky fluid discharge from her mammary glands
• Increased restlessness
• Lack of appetite

Veterinarians diagnose pregnancy in dogs using different methods, from hormonal tests to abdominal palpitations, x-rays, and ultrasounds. These tests are more accurate if performed when your dog is at least 30 days into her pregnancy. 

It’s advisable to engage your vet once you suspect your dog is pregnant, as they’ll advise you on how to properly care for and feed your pregnant pup. In doing so, you’ll enhance your dog’s overall health and well-being throughout pregnancy (and even after birth). 

“Pregnant dogs need slightly more attention and the TLC is similar to what pregnant women need and get,” explained Dr. Nisha Patel of Pet Mantra Vet Clinic. “Remember, no vaccines, dewormers, or tick & flea control medication should be given without your vet’s consent. Please visit your vet regularly during this period.”

Signs of Labor in Dogs (& Preparing for Your Dog for Nursing)

When your pregnant dog goes into labor, they’ll display symptoms such as:

• Excessive nesting behavior 
• Increased whining due to discomfort caused by uterine contractions
• Shivering due to a drop in body temperature
• Excessive panting and pacing 
• Clear to white vaginal discharge
• Loss of appetite 

It’s important to remain in touch with your vet during this period. This is because complications can occur, putting your dog and her unborn puppies’ lives at risk. For instance, if your furry friend doesn’t go into labor within 24 hours after her temperature drops, this could lead to complications. 

Early preparation is key to ensuring your dog’s comfort before and after delivery. It’s important to create a warm, quiet place where she can rest as she prepares to give birth. And before the puppies arrive, ensure you’ve already prepared a spacious whelping box where your dog and her newborns will settle in. 

“Create a comfortable and quiet place for the mother to give birth. Be aware of your veterinarian in case you need assistance during labor. Encourage the mother to eat and stay hydrated during labor. Provide a whelping box with clean bedding for the mother and her puppies after birth,” advised user @PoSaP in a Reddit discussion post on what to know before birthing a dog. 

Fading Puppy Syndrome: What You Should Know

According to pet expert Dr. Alyssa Barrata-Martin of the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine South Clinic, fading puppy syndrome is a condition where a puppy born seemingly healthy begins to deteriorate in health within the first few weeks of life and dies. 

This condition is often a result of a combination of factors that may affect the puppy, including a difficult birth process, weakened immune systems leading to infections, the risk of hypothermia and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), living in a poor, unsanitary environment after birth, underlying birth defects, and the lack of proper nourishment and care after birth.

What’s worse is that a nursing dog may shift her focus from the puppies that seem to be “fading,” mostly because her motherly instincts tell her to feed and care for the strongest pups. This can lead to the fading puppies to suffer more.

There are several symptoms of fading puppy syndrome in newborn puppies, among them: 

• Puppy not gaining weight compared to the rest of the litter 
• Puppy separating themselves from their littermates 
• Puppy acting restless 
• Persistent crying (and not stopping even when soothed by the mother)
• Puppy not feeding properly 
• Vomiting and diarrhea 
• Shivering due to an alarming drop in body temperature 

If you notice any of your dog’s puppies exhibiting symptoms of fading puppy syndrome, it’s best to take them to the vet immediately for diagnosis and life-saving treatment. While this condition isn’t entirely preventable, there are a few precautions you can to reduce its occurrence. These precautions include:

• Ensure your dog and her puppies stay in a clean and warm whelping area throughout 
• Constantly monitor each puppy’s weight and speak to your vet in case of any huge weight differences between the puppies. 
• Ensure your nursing dog is on a high-quality diet approved by your vet
• Practice proper hygiene when handling the newborn puppies.

Pregnancy in Dogs: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Border Collies are beloved for their intelligence, agility, and unwavering loyalty. As one of the most popular dog breeds globally, they have become a popular choice for families and individuals alike. However, for those with allergies, owning a dog can present a challenge. The notion of hypoallergenic dog breeds has gained traction in recent years, leading many to wonder: Are Border Collies hypoallergenic? In this article, we will delve into the topic, exploring the characteristics of Border Collies and their potential impact on allergy sufferers.

Get To Know the Border Collie

Border Collies are renowned for their striking appearance and remarkable intelligence. Originating from the border region between England and Scotland, these herding dogs were bred for their exceptional work ethic and herding instincts. They typically have a medium-sized body, a dense double coat, and expressive eyes that captivate many dog enthusiasts.

What Triggers Dog Allergies?

Contrary to popular belief, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. No, not even Poodles. 

The idea of a completely hypoallergenic breed was created mostly as a marketing tactic, mostly fueled by the myth that a low-shedding dog also produces less allergen. This is untrue. So-called hypoallergenic dogs have been shown to carry more Can f 1—one of the proteins that cause allergic reactions in people—than non-hypoallergenic breeds. Despite this, homes with “hypoallergenic” and non-hypoallergenic dogs test approximately the same for accumulated canine allergens. 

Humans can be allergic to proteins found in dog dander (aka dead skin), saliva, and urine. Every breed of dog produces approximately the same amount of these allergens, although there are some differences between individuals. You can be allergic to some, or all of these proteins, and your dog allergies can change over time. 

“There is no guarantee that, over time, you won’t develop an allergy to one of the other dog allergens,” says the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology in their quick guide to hypoallergenic dogs. The ACAAI goes on to note that, even if you find a dog that doesn’t immediately trigger an allergic reaction, “[that] dog [could] produce higher levels of those allergens later in its life.”

So, what should you do if you’re a dog lover with dog allergies? Are you doomed to never own a dog? 

In just a moment, we’ll share a few tips for managing allergies if you’ve already got a Border Collie, or are getting a dog soon. If you have the time to prepare or are ready to start treating your pet allergies long-term, there are allergen immunotherapies available that can help to reduce your sensitivity to canine allergens. 

How To Care For Your Border Collie’s Coat To Manage Allergies

1. Give Your Border Collie Regular Baths

There are two key reasons to bathe your Border Collie if you have dog allergies. 

First, a good bath now and then will help to wash out stuck fur and dander, which would otherwise be dropped around your home. 

Second, bathing your Border Collie with a good quality dog shampoo and conditioner can help to nourish their skin, reduce dryness, and reduce some dander production. 

2. Brush Your Border Collie Outside

Because Border Colliels have that gorgeous, long, flowing fur, they need regular brushing to keep them detangled and to remove debris. Every time you brush your dog, they will drop loose fur and dander. To reduce the amount of dander they drop in your home, try doing their regular brushing outside! 

3. Schedule Regular Appointments with a Dog Groomer

Giving your dog a bath at home is important, especially for breeds like the Border Collie. That said, taking them to the groomer is just as important, since a professional can do a more thorough job, and can get more stuck fur and dander out than you can at home. 

Every 6–10 weeks is the right grooming schedule for a Border Collie, but this will also depend on how often your dog plays outside, how well you brush/wash them between professional grooms, their diet, etc. 

4. Eliminate Soft Surfaces From Your Home

Soft surfaces like rugs, carpets, and fabric furniture collect dust and dander no matter how often you clean them. These items often have the highest allergen concentration in the home. By eliminating as many soft surfaces from your home as possible, you can significantly reduce the amount of dander that builds up. 

5. Filter Your Air

It’s impossible to stop your furry friend from shedding dander since even low-shedding dogs still have skin cells that can trigger allergies. However, investing in a top-notch air filter or purifier for your living space can help eliminate tiny particles of dander and allergen from the air. This can significantly improve the quality of the air you breathe and reduce allergic reactions caused by your Border Collie. 

If you’re trying to avoid cold or flu season, having an air purifier in the home can also protect your immune system from disease. 

Popular Low-Shedding Dog Breeds

Although low-shedding dog breeds aren’t necessarily less likely to trigger your allergies, there are other reasons to choose one over a moderate or heavy-shedding breed. For example, you might not want to manage loose fur stuck to all of your clothing or furniture—for some people that’s not a problem, for others, it can be a real nuisance. Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that low-shedding dogs shed, just not very much! 

Here are thirteen popular (and unique) low-shedding dog breeds. 

• Afghan Hound
• American Hairless Terrier
• Basenji
• Bedlington Terrier
• Bichon Frise
• Chinese Crested Dog
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Maltese
• Poodle (Toy, Miniature, and Standard)
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard, and Giant)
• Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
• Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

Are Border Collies Hypoallergenic? The FAQ

If you scrolled down to this section to get a quick answer to the question: are Border Collies hypoallergenic dogs? The answer is: No.

If you’re looking for an answer to another question about the Border Collie, keep on reading!

Related Articles:

• Finding the Perfect Hypoallergenic Dog for Your Family: Tips for Adopting a Dog That Won’t Trigger Allergies
• 55 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds You Might Be Able To Live With If You Have Allergies
• Grooming Your Dog: Tips for Maintaining Their Health and Appearance