The Surprising Behavior: When My Border Collie Tried Fishing with Me

First, let me start by clarifying that Border Collies are known for their herding instincts and intelligence. However, every once in a while, a Border Collie does something that just doesn't quite fit the breed stereotype. Such was the case with my Border Collie.

My Border Collie and the Little Frog

This vivid memory captures one of the most unexpected, yet endearing, occurrences with my Border Collie. It wasn't an activity we usually engaged in, but it certainly stands out in my mind as one of the least Border Collie-like things he ever did. The incident unfolded unexpectedly during one of our regular outings in the woods near my home.

It all began on a warm Saturday when I decided to fish for a few hours with my Border Collie by my side. Like many Border Collies, he's always been by my side, whether it's for a walk, a run, or even a hike. We spent hours exploring the natural environment, and our relationship was one of mutual respect and companionship.

After a while, my fishing spot started to attract some local wildlife, including frogs. The sight of them jumping around the water caught my Border Collie's attention. Instead of his usual behavior of chasing rabbits or birds, he started to watch the frogs with a curious gaze. I noticed how he seemed intrigued by the movements and patterns of the frogs.

Amused, I began to toss a tiny, harmless water frog into the air, and to my surprise, my Border Collie started to catch them on first contact with his mouth. It was as if he was testing to see if he could hold onto them. But it wasn't just a simple catch and release; he would hold the frogs in his mouth, examining them closely much like a scientist would observe a new discovery.

A Different Side of My Border Collie

The days that followed were filled with his antics. He would gently carry the frogs as if they were delicate eggs, and even bring them to me so I could see how much he loved them. It was heartwarming yet not in line with the typical herding behavior. He wasn’t acting like a border collie bent on chasing and corralling, but rather like a curious and inquisitive animal that couldn’t quite understand the concept of prey and predator.

Of course, I quickly explained to him that these were frogs and should be set free. But he seemed to understand, releasing the frogs with an almost tender touch, watching them hop away unharmed.

Shaping a Strong Relationship

Reflecting on this experience, it solidified my relationship with him. It's one of the moments that remind me that while Border Collies are intelligent and driven by their herding instincts, they can sometimes surprise us with their curiosity and adaptability. This particular behavior encouraged me to foster a more animal-friendly and compassionate environment for our next outings.

Now, when I spend time in the woods, it's not just a casual fishing trip. It's a bonding session where we both learn and explore. This experience taught me the importance of understanding my own dog's unique personality and the need to shape our activities around it, ensuring that we both have a fulfilling experience.

In conclusion, while every Border Collie exhibits incredible herding skills and intelligence, there are moments when they surprise us with their unexpected behaviors. My Border Collie’s fishing days, holding frogs, and examining them taught me a valuable lesson about the diverse and sometimes whimsical nature of these intelligent animals. It's a memory that will continue to remind me of his unique character.

If you have any stories of your Border Collie’s unexpected behaviors, share them with me! Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding approach to our dear furry friends.