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24 Essential Border Collie Supplies to Get You Started

border collie sitting on yellow couch

If you’re thinking about getting a Border Collie, then you need to make sure you have the right supplies ready! This blog post will list all of the essential items that you’ll need to take care of your new dog. From food and water bowls to leashes and toys, we’ve got you covered. Make sure you have everything on this list before bringing your Border Collie home!

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The 24 Essential Border Collie Supplies to Get You Started

1. Food and Water Bowls

The first thing you’ll need are food and water bowls for your new dog. You can find these at any pet store or online. Make sure to get a size that’s appropriate for your Border Collie.

Our Pick

Platinum Pets Stainless Steel Embossed Non-Tip Dog Bowl

Pros
  • Stainless steel
  • Durable and easy to clean
  • Long-lasting
Cons
  • Pricier than plastic bowls
  • Can make sounds if your dog moves it

2. Leash

A good leash is important for any dog owner. When choosing a leash, it’s important to find one that is strong and durable. It’s also important to find one that is easy to grip, especially if you plan on using it for walking your dog.

Our Pick

Flexi Comfort Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash

Pros
  • Nylon tape is strong and durable
  • Retractable feature gives your dog some freedom while still being under control
Cons
  • May be too much leash for smaller dogs
  • Can be difficult to control if your dog is strong
  • Not as stylish as some other collars on the market

3. Collars

There are many different types of dog collars on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your pet. Some of the most common types of collars are nylon, leather, and choke collars.

Our Pick

Buckle-Down Vintage US Flag Polyester Seatbelt Buckle Dog Collar

Pros
  • Polyester is strong and durable
  • Buckle is made of metal for extra security
Cons
  • Not as adjustable as some other collars on the market
  • May be too big for smaller dogs

4. Toys

Chew Toys

Border Collies are high-energy dogs, so they need plenty of toys to keep them entertained. We recommend getting a few different kinds of toys, including chew toys, fetch toys, and puzzle toys. They need to be able to burn off all that energy somehow, and a variety of toys will keep your Collie from getting bored with just one!

Our Pick

KONG Classic Dog Toy

Pros
  • Made of durable rubber
  • Can be filled with treats
  • Entertains your dog for hours
Cons
  • Some dogs may find it too difficult to chew

Interactive Toys

Interactive dog toys are a great way to keep your pet entertained and mentally stimulated. By providing your dog with different types of interactive toys, you can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Our Pick

Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball + Classic Launcher Dog Toy

Pros
  • Lets you play fetch with your dog
  • Available in a variety of sizes
  • Saves your arm from throwing the ball over and over
Cons
  • Balls can get lost easily
  • Not all dogs will enjoy playing fetch Now that you

Tug Toys

Tug toys are a wonderful method to keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated. You may use different types of tug toys to avoid undesirable behavior and monotony in your pet’s day.

Our Pick

Mammoth Cottonblend 5 Knot Dog Rope Toy

Pros
  • Made of durable rope material
  • Includes three different toys in one
Cons
  • May not be as durable as some other tug toys on the market
  • Not all dogs like to tug
  • Heavy chewers mat be able to destroy it

Stuffed Animal Toys

Stuffed animal toys are a great way to keep your dog entertained and help him feel safe and loved. Lots of dogs like to snuggle stuffed animals, while other dogs like to destroy them. Be on the lookout for toys with parts your dog can swallow.

Our Pick

ZippyPaws Zippy Burrow Interactive Squeaky Hide and Seek Plush Dog Toy

Pros
  • Squeaks when your dog bites it
  • Can be used for interactive playtime
Cons
  • Your dog may tear it apart easily

Puzzle Toys

Dogs love to be challenged, and puzzle toys are a great way to provide that stimulation. There are many different types of puzzle toys on the market, so finding the right one for your dog may take some trial and error. But once you do, your dog will be entertained for hours!

Our Pick

Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Brick Puzzle Game Dog Toy

Pros
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Entertains your dog for hours
Cons
  • May be too difficult for some dogs

5. Beds

Dog beds are essential for any dog owner. You want your Border Collie to be comfortable, and a good bed will help with that. We recommend getting a bed that’s made of durable material and is easy to clean.

Our Pick

Orthopedic Dog Bed with Removable Cover

Pros
  • Made of memory foam
  • Durable and easy to clean
Cons
  • Some dogs may not like the orthopedic support

6. Crate

You’ll need a crate for your Border Collie. Crates are great for potty training and keeping your dog safe when you can’t supervise them. We recommend getting a crate that’s made of durable material and is the right size for your dog. Make sure you choose a crate that is large enough to still accommodate your Collie as it grows as well.

Our Pick

MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Pros
  • Made of durable steel
  • Includes a divider panel to adjust the size as your dog grows
Cons
  • May be too heavy to move around

7. Grooming Supplies

You’ll need some basic grooming supplies for your Border Collie. These include a brush, shampoo, and nail trimmers. You can find all of these at any pet store or online. We recommend getting a brush that’s specifically designed for Border Collies.

Brushes

When it comes to brushes, there are many different types available. But we recommend getting a brush that’s specifically designed for Border Collies. These brushes have bristles that are firm enough to remove dirt and debris but gentle enough not to irritate your dog’s skin.

Our Pick

FURminator Long Hair Dog Deshedding Tool

Pros
  • Reduces shedding by up to 90%
  • Gentle on your dog’s skin
Cons
  • May be too harsh for some dogs

Shampoos and Conditioners

Dogs need shampoo and conditioner just like people do. We recommend getting a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner, as they will be formulated to be gentle on your dog’s skin. Be sure to read the labels carefully to make sure you’re getting a product that’s safe for your dog to use.

Our Pick

PetAg Fresh 'N Clean Oatmeal 'N Baking Soda Dog Shampoo, Tropical Fresh Scent, 32-oz bottle

Pros
  • Made of all-natural ingredients
  • Gentle on your dog’s skin
Cons
  • May not be as effective as some other shampoos on the market

Nail Trimmers

Dog nail trimmers are a necessary tool for any dog owner. You’ll need to trim your dog’s nails on a regular basis and using nail trimmers is the easiest way to do it. We recommend getting a pair of trimmers that are designed specifically for dogs. They will have a curved blade that is gentle on your dog’s nails and sharp enough to get the job done effortlessly.

Our Pick

Millers Forge Professional Nail Trimmer with Safety Stop

Pros
  • Made of stainless steel
  • Sharp blades for a clean cut
  • Safety stop to prevent injury
  • Long-lasting
Cons
  • May be too large for small dogs

8. Puppy Pads

If you’re potty training your Border Collie, you’ll need puppy pads. Puppy pads are absorbent mats that you can put down in your house for your dog to use when they need to go to the bathroom. We recommend getting a pack of 50 so that you have enough for accidents.

Our Pick

Hartz Home Protection Odor Eliminating Dog Pee Pads

Pros
  • Absorbent for accidents
  • Leak-proof
Cons
  • May not be as durable as some other puppy pads on the market

9. Treats

You’ll need treats to train your Border Collie. We recommend getting a variety of treats, such as small ones for training and larger ones for rewards. You can find treats at any pet store or online.

Our Pick

Zuke's Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Training Dog Treats

Pros
  • Made of all-natural ingredients
  • Variety of flavors
Cons
  • May be too large for some dogs

10. Dog Food

You’ll need dog food for your Border Collie. We recommend getting high-quality dry food that’s specifically designed for Border Collies or larger dogs. Collies are active dogs, so dog food that is high in protein can also be beneficial for them.

Our Pick

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe

Pros
  • Made of high-quality ingredients
  • Grain-free
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other dog foods on the market

11. Raincoat

If you live in a rainy climate, you’ll need a raincoat for your Border Collie. Raincoats are great for keeping your dog dry and comfortable during walks. We recommend getting a raincoat that’s made of durable material and is easy to put on and take off.

Our Pick

Kurgo Halifax Dog Rain Shell Slicker Jacket

Pros
  • Made of durable water-resistant material
  • Reflective for safety
Cons
  • May be too heavy for some dogs

12. Flea and Tick Prevention

If you live in an area with fleas and ticks, you’ll need to get some prevention for your Border Collie. We recommend getting a monthly topical treatment that’s specifically designed for dogs. This is a supply that you’ll have to make sure to stay on top of replacing. Your vet can also recommend and prescribe flea and tick treatments for your dog.

Our Pick

Sentry Fiproguard Plus Flea, Tick and Mosquito Prevention for Dogs

Pros
  • Kills fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes
  • Lasts for up to 30 days
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other products on the market

13. Supplements

If you want to give your Border Collie some extra nutrition, you can get supplements. We recommend getting a multivitamin that’s specifically designed for dogs. These can help add beneficial nutrients that may not be in your dog’s standard dog food.

Our Pick

VetriScience Laboratories - Canine Multi Chewable Tablets VetriScience GlycoFlex Stage III Chicken Flavored Soft Chews Joint Supplement for Dogs

Pros
  • Made of high-quality ingredients
  • Contains glucosamine and chondroitin
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other supplements on the market

14. GPS Tracker

If you want to be able to track your Border Collie’s location, we recommend getting a GPS tracker. GPS trackers are great for keeping an eye on your dog and making sure they’re safe. Some even work with your phone, so that you always have your dog’s location right at your fingertips. These can be especially helpful if your dog were to run away.

Our Pick

Findster Duo+ Pet Tracker

Pros
  • Real-time tracking
  • Waterproof
  • Gives you piece of mind
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other GPS trackers on the market

15. Paw Balm

If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need to get some paw balm for your Border Collie. Paw balm is great for keeping your dog’s paws moisturized and protected from the cold. If you live in a hot climate, paw balm can also help protect your dog’s paw pads from getting scorched on the hot sidewalk.

Our Pick

Pet MD Paw Balm 3-in-1 Nose/Snout & Elbow Moisturizer & Paw Protectors Paw Wax with Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, & Beeswax for Dogs, 2-oz jar

Pros
  • Made of natural ingredients
  • Protects against the cold
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other paw balms on the market

16. Probiotics

If you want to give your Border Collie some extra digestive support, we recommend getting probiotics. Probiotics are great for helping dogs with sensitive stomachs. Some dog foods contain probiotics, but if your dog’s favorite food doesn’t contain them, this can be a great way to supplement them.

Our Pick

Nusentia Probiotic Miracle Powder

Pros
  • Made of high-quality ingredients
  • Contains a variety of probiotics
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other probiotics on the market

17. Formalwear

If you want to dress up your Border Collie for a wedding or special event, this is the perfect, most dapper little tuxedo. Although not necessarily essential, it can definitely be cute. We recommend getting a costume or outfit that’s specifically designed for dogs.

Our Pick

Frisco Formal Dog & Cat Tuxedo, Black

Pros
  • Fits well
  • Machine washable
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other tuxedos on the market

18. Winter Coat

If you live in a really cold climate, you may need to get a winter coat for your Border Collie. Winter coats are great for keeping your dog warm and protected from the cold. Keep in mind that Border Collies have long coats already, so winter coats aren’t necessary unless your dog is going to be spending a lot of time outside.

Our Pick

Kurgo Loft Reversible Insulated Dog Quilted Coat

Pros
  • Made of durable water-resistant materials
  • Features a built-in harness
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other winter coats on the market

19. Doggie Backpack

If you want to take your Border Collie hiking, we recommend getting a doggie backpack. Doggie backpacks are great for carrying all of your dog’s supplies while you’re on the trail, such as treats, water bowls, and poop bags.

Our Pick

Outward Hound DayPak for Dogs, Blue, Medium

Pros
  • Made of durable materials
  • Features a variety of pockets and compartments
  • Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other doggie backpacks on the market

20. Treat Pouch

If you want to train your Border Collie, we recommend getting a treat pouch. Treat pouches are great for holding all of your dog’s treats while you’re training.

Our Pick

Bundle: Chuckit! Treat Tote, Color Varies, Small + Pet Botanics Training Rewards Chicken Flavor Dog Treats

Pros
  • Made of durable materials
  • Features a clip that attaches to your belt
  • Comes bundles with training treats
Cons
  • Best for puppies
  • Holds small training treats only

21. Tie Out Cable

If you want to keep your Border Collie safe while you’re away, tie out cables may be necessary if you don’t have a fenced in yard and your dog must stay outside. Tie out cables are great for keeping your dog from running away.

Our Pick

IntelliLeash Intelli-Stayk Surface-Lock Dog Tie-Out Stake

Pros
  • Made of durable materials
  • Features a built-in waste bag dispenser and water bottle holder
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other tie out cables on the market

22. Dog Walker Super Pack

If you’re looking for a complete dog walking solution, we recommend the Dog Walker Super Pack. The Dog Walker Super Pack comes with everything you need to walk your dog, including a leash, waste bags, and a water bottle.

Our Pick

DogGoods Do Good The Everything Leash + Fanny Pack Dog Leash

Pros
  • Made of durable materials
  • Features a built-in waste bag dispenser and water bottle holder
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other dog leashes on the market

Best For

  • Dogs owners who need a leash and fanny pack in one.

23. Car Seat Cover

If you want to keep your car clean during car rides with your Border Collie, car seat covers can be beneficial. Car seat covers are great for protecting your seats from dirt, hair, and other messes.

Our Pick

PetSafe Happy Ride Extra Wide Waterproof Bench Cover, Tan, 60-in

Pros
  • Made of durable waterproof materials
  • Features a variety of colors and sizes
Cons
  • May be more expensive than some other car seat covers on the market

Best For

  • Dogs who need a car seat cover.

24. Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Keeping your Border Collie’s teeth clean is essential for their health. Toothbrushes and toothpaste are great for removing plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth.

Our Pick

Bundle: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Poultry Flavor Toothpaste + Dog & Cat Toothbrush

Pros
  • Made of durable materials
  • Features a variety of colors and sizes
Cons
  • Best for puppies
  • Holds small training treats only

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Summary

In this blog post, we’ve listed some of the essential Border Collie supplies to get you started. We’ve also included our picks for the best products in each category. With these supplies, you’re ready to start your journey with your new Border Collie. We recommend starting with these five items: a leash, a collar, food and water bowls, a bed, and a few toys. Remember to always use caution when introducing a new dog into your home and be patient while training. And always remember to have fun!

See also: 10 Best Harnesses for Border Collies – Reviews & Top Picks


Featured Image Credit: Ayla Verschueren, Unsplash

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