Preparing for Life With a Mockingbird Border Collie

Bringing home a Mockingbird Border Collie is the beginning of a long-term partnership.

Our goal is not simply to place puppies; it’s to prepare owners for success through education, realistic expectations, and continued support.

This page serves as a starting point for both future and current Mockingbird families.

Preparing for Your Puppy

Success begins before your puppy arrives home.

Before pickup day, we recommend preparing:

  • Crate and safe confinement area

  • Age-appropriate toys and enrichment items

  • Feeding plan and schedule

  • Household routines for consistency

  • Training expectations for all family members

Puppies thrive in structured environments with clear routines and calm leadership.

Recommended Supplies

A simple, functional setup is best.

Essentials

  • Wire or plastic crate

  • Flat collar or lightweight harness

  • Standard 6-foot leash

  • Stainless steel food and water bowls

  • High-quality puppy food

  • Training treats

  • Grooming tools

Avoid overwhelming your puppy with excessive equipment.
Relationship and routine matter more than gear.

View Recommended Supply List

The First Week Home

The first week establishes lifelong habits.

Focus on:

  • Predictable routines

  • Short positive training sessions

  • Structured rest periods

  • Calm introductions to new environments

  • Supervised exploration

Your puppy does not need immediate social overload.

Confidence grows through positive, controlled experiences

Training Expectations

Mockingbird puppies are raised with early foundations, but training continues after placement.

Expect to work on:

  • Engagement and focus

  • Crate training

  • House training

  • Leash manners

  • Neutrality around distractions

Training should prioritize relationship before obedience.

Grooming Basics

Border Collies require maintenance grooming.

Routine care includes:

  • Weekly brushing

  • Nail maintenance

  • Occasional bathing

  • Regular coat inspection

Show grooming at Mockingbird emphasizes minimal trimming, with feet being the only area routinely trimmed.

The Mockingbird Difference

Support does not end when a puppy leaves.

Mockingbird owners receive:

  • Ongoing breeder support

  • Training guidance

  • Access to educational resources

  • Participation opportunities through the Excellence Program

  • Lifetime commitment from us to every dog we produce

We believe responsible breeding includes responsible mentorship.