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Dog food is the most important yet confusing aspect of owning a puppy. Each dog breed has its own unique nutritional needs, but with so many brands on the market, how do you know which ones are the best? In this post, we are explaining the exact needs of Border Collies to help you on your quest for the best dog food.
Border Collies and Collies
First off, it’s important to know that Border Collies and Collies are actually different breeds. However, both of them are known for their herding abilities. Collies are what is known as standard Collies which include Rough Collies and Smooth Collies. The names refer to their coat, so it’s pretty easy to determine which one they are just by looking at them. To give you a better understanding, the infamous Lassie is a standard Collie. Border Collies are usually slightly smaller than standard Collies but with just as much energy. Like Collies, they were also bred in the UK but on the border of England and Scotland which is how they came to be named. They are both incredibly intelligent and energetic; however, Border Collies are sometimes harder to train than Collies.
The Needs of Border Collies
Generally speaking, Border Collies rarely suffer from allergies, unlike other dog breeds. They are also less prone to health concerns although their activeness could cause joint issues later in life. On a nutritional basis, they are pretty easy to please as they don’t really have any specific needs other than the standard ones. But, of course, there are certain ingredients that will be very beneficial for them.
Common health problems include:
Protein
All dogs require protein, some more than others. Border Collies are in the higher protein category. The absolute best source of protein for dogs is from animals, but it needs to be of a high-quality. Whole meat and meat meal are both perfectly suitable. The difference between the two is that meat meal is a more concentrated form that whole meat as it contains only 10% of water. Whole meat, on the other hand, is made up of 80% water which is particularly favored for breeds that are susceptible to weight gain.
Calcium
We know we’ve already mentioned it but it needs to be said again, Border Collies are extremely active dogs. They would play all day and night if they could and, in most cases, it will be you that needs a break before them. Because of this their joints and bones are put under a lot of pressure, and as they age, they could start feeling it. To lend a helping hand in your dog’s health, a good dose of calcium in their diet will help them throughout the years.
Calories
Because Border Collies are such energetic dogs, they need a lot of calories. In fact, the amount of food they eat usually depends on the calorie content. They typically have a speedy metabolism, and so they don’t usually put on too much weight. Of course, this can change as they grow older and if their activeness calms (which it might not) you may need to switch their food or lower their calorie intake. Being constantly on the go whether it’s herding, playing, or simply running around like a mad one, their energy levels need to be replenished. This means a healthy amount of food and a high number of calories. On average an active adult dog will consume around 1000 calories per day. But, if that dog is working, they are often on a diet of 1400 calories a day. This fuels them with enough energy and helps to keep them at an ideal weight.
Feeding Habits
Although Border Collies have a diet with a higher number of calories, they still eat the same amount of meals as other dogs. Once in the morning, and once in the evening. Border Collies do, however, rarely feel full. The consequence of this is that they will continue to eat if there is food about. They will not stop which means as an owner you need to ensure that your pooch isn’t overeating. For any fans of automatic feeders, just be sure that it doesn’t release too much food for your dog because if it does, you know they will eat it.
Recommended Dog Food
So, whether you are looking for the latest grain-free dry dog food, wet food, raw food with added nutrients but with fewer calories, homemade dog food, canned dog food, food for a limited ingredient diet, or some other high-quality dog food, just what dog food for border collies is best to ensure a well-balanced diet? Read on to find out our best dog food reviews and ensure the health and well-being of your puppy.
Merrick Grain-Free Real Texas Beef
Featuring real deboned beef, the Merrick Grain-Free Real Texas Beef dog food is an excellent choice for Border Collies. It’s allergy-friendly and packed with fruit and vegetables including sweet potatoes, peas, blueberries, and apples just to name a few. Merrick is a reputable brand that uses high-quality ingredients from sources that they trust.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dog Food
Another fantastic grain-free dog food for Border Collies is that of Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food. A highly-digestible formula that delivers the energy your Border Collie needs. Rammed with nutrients, this dog food includes essential minerals which optimize absorption.
Annamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food
This dog food is especially for working dogs so if your Border Collie is out in the fields with you, then you might want to consider feeding it Annamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food. It is quite a bit more expensive than other brands but, hey, your dog works for cuddles and walks, so it’s only fair that they get all of the nutrients they need. This energy dense dog food has one of the highest levels of fat and protein on the market.
Border Collies are brilliant pets, and when they are able to be as active as they wish, then they are at their best. Choosing the best dog’s diet for your puppy is no easy task, but hopefully, now you have the information you need to help your buddy thrive.
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