Man Blames Sister For Shattering His Dream Of Owning Border Collie, Despite Family's Unsuitability For High-Energy Breed

"He is now mad at me because he felt like he needed this dog breed and I was preventing him from getting it."

Sophia

• Published in Interesting
• May 5, 2024

Certain dog breeds, while appealing in appearance and reputation, may not be well-suited for families with children, particularly if it's their first foray into pet ownership. Dogs like Border Collies, while intelligent and energetic, demand a significant amount of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation that can overwhelm both young children and inexperienced owners.

Such breeds require dedicated training, frequent interaction, and a job to do, which can be a tall order for busy families or those unfamiliar with the needs of high-energy dogs. Border Collies, renowned for their agility and intelligence, are often considered one of the most challenging breeds to manage.

Originally bred for herding livestock, they possess an innate drive to work and a boundless energy reservoir that must be channeled through regular, vigorous exercise and mental engagement. Without the proper outlet for their energy,

Border Collies can develop behavioral issues such as excessive barking, digging, and other destructive behaviors. They thrive in environments where they can perform tasks and engage in activities that stimulate their minds and bodies.

For families, especially those with children who may not understand the demands of such a breed, starting with a more beginner-friendly dog can lead to a more harmonious pet-owner relationship. But that's something that a certain boy here should definitely understand...

OP's nephew loves their border collie, Dixie, and wants a dog. Brother insists on the same breed despite warnings.

He camps and fishes occasionally, while his wife, who exercises more, will likely walk the dog. They're expecting a baby and plan to get a border collie puppy.

OP marathon trains with their border collie, Dixie, and works from home. Their boyfriend helps by taking Dixie on runs when OP is tired.

During a Japan trip, OP left Dixie with their brother and sister-in-law. They were surprised by her exercise needs, though their nephew enjoyed her company.

OP's sister-in-law decided against getting a border collie until their youngest was in grade school. The brother is upset, feeling OP blocked his choice.

Scroll down to see what people had to say...

Looks like someone got the budget edition of a wake-up call.

Seems like someone's ego got tangled in the leash.

"That's out of your hands."

Looks like someone's idea of a baby gift is more of a baby nightmare.

Reality check: delivered. Brother's return address: Fantasyland.

"You did what's best for the dog."

Right!

Looks like someone's getting the "paws" for thought from the real decision-maker in the house.

Seems like they narrowly avoided a border collie CEO situation. Beagle antics make for a different kind of comedy show!

Suggested remedy: A geriatric basset hound, matching his speed and spirit perfectly.

Matchmaker, matchmaker, make them a doggie match!

Just call them the "Reality Realtor"—selling truth, not fiction.

"They are definitely not a breed to be taken on lightly."

Looks like someone needs a "Paws-itively Perfect Match" app before swiping right on a breed.

"I get that, they're great-looking dogs."

"You are doing a great job keeping an unwanted and uncontrolled dog out of the pound or worse."

Sometimes, reality bites harder than a puppy—especially a Border Collie puppy. It seems even the best-laid plans need a reality check, especially when they involve high-energy dogs and laid-back lifestyles. Here's to family, foresight, and finding the right fit, one pet decision at a time!

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Sophia