Summary: The Border Collie, also known as a Scottish Sheepdog, is a descendant of the landrace collies that were originally from the British Isles. It is widely assumed to have been first developed in the Anglo-Scottish border mainly for working purposes. The dogs’ main function was livestock herding, a role it still plays very well to this day, with a special focus on sheep. Widely regarded as the most intelligent dog breed, a Border Collie is extremely energetic, acrobatic and athletic. This makes it a very demanding dog to have and when under stimulated it is widely known to get up to all sorts of mischief. Bored,it will destroy property or furniture, dig up yards and find ways to escape boundaries to roam freely. As such, prospective owners are advised to have a lot of patience, time and energy dedicated to its upkeep.
Medium in build, a Border Collie requires a lot of mental stimulation and exercise. The dog makes a great companion and has in recent years been used as an assistive dog. They are highly trainable with proper socialization and have a lifespan of 10-14 years. They have a proud history of winning dog sports and sheepdog trials.
Border Collies have thick, moderate double coats that shed in varying degrees all year round. The coat texture varies from smooth to rough and may be curly. The prevalent coat color is a black and white mix. These dogs, therefore, require regular cleaning and grooming. Below are detailed reviews of Do-It-Yourself shampoos available online that could assist you to make the finest choice for your furry friend.
Reviews of best shampoo for Border Collie.
#1. Nature’s Specialties Plum Silky Pet Shampoo
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Nature’s Specialties Plum Silky Pet Shampoo is a non-allergenic, mild, concentrated product that serves two purposes. It cleans well and also has a conditioner. The conditioner texturizes, adds body and re-moisturizes. It has a long-lasting fragrance that is soft and not overpowering for either the dog or those around it. It is a long lasting shampoo, requiring dilution in the ration of 24:1, which gives great value for money.
Nature’s Specialty Plum Silky Pet Shampoo is enhanced with Vitamins, Aloe Vera, and silk. Safe for regular use, it leaves a Border Collie’s coat more manageable with a brilliant sheen for days on end. It is safe for puppies and kittens anywhere over 6 weeks old.
This shampoo is highly recommended by veterinary doctors and dog grooming specialists.
#2. Cloud Star’s Buddy Wash Original Lavender
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The Cloud Star’s Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint shampoo is gentle and safe for frequent use. It is entirely made in the U.S.A with pure botanical extracts and natural conditioners. It comes with a guarantee that it is soap and harsh ingredient free, it is highly unlikely to irritate the dog’s skin.
For the most soothing bath time experience available, Cloud Star’s Buddy Wash is fortified with herbs, vitamins, and natural oils. These are Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera Gel, tea tree oil, wheat protein extract (a natural deodorizing agent), rosemary extract, nettles extract, sage extract, chamomile extract, essence of mint, essence of lavender and a coconut shampoo base.The shampoo lathers and rinses easily. It comes in a gallon bottle that provides excellent value for money. This rich mixture promises to leave your Border Collie’s coat shiny, pleasant smelling and soft for several days.
What to consider when choosing the best shampoo for Border Collie.
There are many factors to consider. Due to their rambunctious nature, Border Collies are mostly outdoor types. This means they are highly likely to collect dirt, liquids and all sorts of other messes in their coats. As such, careful consideration needs to be put into choosing the best shampoo. Some factors to consider are:
1. Coat and skin type.
The skin is the largest organ in the body. Being highly absorbent, extra caution must be taken when applying anything to it. You need to know whether your Border Collie has an existing skin condition, is prone to skin conditions or is allergic to any sort of shampoo constituents. This means carefully reading the label on any shampoo before use. As a rule, avoid harsh chemicals and prioritize easily rinsing and natural products.
2. The frequency of required baths.
In cases where your Border Collie requires multiple baths a week, it is prudent to prioritize long-lasting shampoos in larger quantities that will give additional value for money. This will reduce expenses in the long-term.
3. Personal preference.
Border Collies are extremely friendly and require a lot of close proximity physical interaction. As such, when choosing the best shampoo, you will need to take into account what shampoo results most appeal to you. These come in the form of fragrances, texture and sheen. While maintaining the highest level of comfort for your dog, you can be able to find a shampoo that works for you as well.
4. Auxiliary benefits.
A Border Collie’s coat evolves according to age. With progression in years, their coats may shed more, lose sheen, body and texture. Choosing a shampoo that has additional benefits suited specifically to your dog’s needs will maximize the experience you both get from a bath.
5. Budget.
Where finances are tight, the budget available will determine the array of shampoos you can acquire. This will require research into the best available shampoos within your price range. Double action products (shampoo with conditioner) are especially favourable as they perform two functions for the price of one.
In conclusion
Border Collies have been superstars from inception to now. They make great companions, workers and assistants and over the long term can become members of the family. Quality shampoos can increase the quality of life while lowering the effort needed to manage the dogs. This means choosing the best shampoo is more of an investment than an expense.