Short answer: herding breeds are smart and driven. They need things to do, not just exercise, or they may start chasing, nipping or herding on their own.
What Battersea and the AKC say
Battersea says Border Collies need about two hours of exercise a day plus problem solving such as extra training. It says that without enough physical and mental activity they can become frustrated and start chasing or herding. The AKC says they fare best when they have a job.
Give them a job
Short training sessions, scent games, and puzzle feeders all count. See find the toy and a sniff walk. For chasing, see chasing running children.
Do not just add miles
More running can build more fitness, not more calm. Mix in rest. See too wired after fetch.
Get the right help
If herding turns into nipping people or chasing cars, ask a qualified trainer for help.
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Sources
Sources & care notes
Frequently asked questions
How much exercise do they need?
Battersea says Border Collies need about two hours a day plus problem solving. Without enough of both they can become frustrated and inventive.
Does more running help?
More running builds more fitness, not more calm. Mix in rest and end games with an easy transition.
What jobs work at home?
Short training sessions, scent games and puzzle feeders all count as work.
What if they start herding us?
Chasing and nipping are the breed doing its job without one. Give an outlet and get help if it grows.
