Thunder Ridge Border Collies
A thoughtful, hands-on start for every puppy we raise
At Thunder Ridge Border Collies, our puppies are raised with intention, care, and respect from the moment they are born. Our goal is to build confident, well-rounded puppies who are prepared for the real world - whether their future lies in sport, work, or simply being a beloved companion.
First Steps and Socialization
Puppies are born and raised right in our home, not in kennels. They grow up surrounded by the sounds, smells, and routines of daily life - voices, vacuuming, clinking dishes, kids playing, music, and quiet moments too. This constant exposure helps shape their resilience and curiosity early on.
We follow Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) protocols beginning at day 3, along with Early Scent Introduction (ESI) to gently challenge their developing nervous systems and open their senses to the world. As they grow, puppies are introduced to a variety of safe textures, surfaces, toys, and low-level obstacles that promote physical coordination and mental engagement.
We pay close attention to each puppy’s needs and responses. Some need a little more time or reassurance, others thrive on new challenges. Our job is to meet them where they are and help them grow.
Health and Enrichment
All our breeding dogs are health tested through OFA and genetic panels to ensure they are free from testable hereditary conditions. We only breed dogs who meet our standards in both health and temperament.
Before going home, every puppy receives:
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A full veterinary exam
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First set of vaccinations
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Age-appropriate deworming
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A microchip for identification
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A personalized folder with health records and care information
Puppies going into sport or show homes can also be issued CKC competition numbers if requested.
All puppies are sold on non-breeding, spay/neuter contracts. Once proof of spay or neuter is provided, we will mail out the CBCA registration paperwork along with a $100 refund.
Every Thunder Ridge puppy also comes with a lifetime return policy. If at any point you are unable or unwilling to care for your dog, they must be returned to us, no questions asked. Rehoming through a shelter, family member, or third party is not permitted. We are committed to every dog we bring into the world, for life.
Preparing for New Homes
We want each of our puppies to go to a home where they will thrive. Around 7–8 weeks of age, we perform temperament evaluations and make placement decisions based on the puppy’s personality, energy level, and needs - not just colour or markings.
We always take your preferences into account, but we ask families to trust our insight into each puppy. Our goal is not to give you the cutest puppy, but the right puppy.
Your Role
Raising a Border Collie is a long-term commitment to both physical and mental development. This breed is brilliant, sensitive, and hardwired to work. They don’t just want something to do - they need it.
Your role after go-home is just as important as ours in the first eight weeks. The critical socialization window continues until around 14–16 weeks, and what happens during this time matters. Puppies need calm, structured experiences, patient handling, and mentally stimulating activities. Consistency, boundaries, and a positive approach to learning will go a long way.
We believe Border Collies are at their best in a home that values communication, enrichment, and partnership, not just play and physical exercise. These dogs are thinkers, and they thrive when their minds are engaged.
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