Happy Birthday Piper (My Blue Heeler Collie Mix)

On January first Piper turned three, officially making her transition from puppy to adult doggo.

Truthfully, even though I jokingly call her my old ball and chain, through this past year of change and growth, she’s been my constant: A routine I can count on every day; A greeting I can expect every time I come home.

Even though she’s a bonafide trouble maker, I’m so grateful to always have her at my side throughout this absurd thing called life. When I need to just get out, she’s right there with me, running ahead on the footpath. When I need to just drive and blast music, she’s leaning against me, paws on the console. When I need a snuggle, she’s the first one willing to hit the chaise–but only if you don’t invade her leg room too much.

She’s been anything but a generic, easy pup to raise. She’s timid, but has a strong personality. She’s stubborn, but smart as a whip. She’s a ball of energy, but lazy AF before 1pm. She doesn’t get the difference between sit and lie down, but she can give a solid high five. She’s wiley, cautious, protective, spunky, sweet, impatient and a food vacuum. And I wouldn’t want it any other way.

To my rapscallion with a heart of gold, happy birthday!

You’re a handful, but I cannot imagine doing life without you. You’re my park pal, my music mutt, my little spoon and my best friend.

PS: Some of my fave photos throughout the years and a little write-up on her breed for anyone curious about getting a blue heeler/border collie mix are below.

x, S

For anyone curious about the breed and if they’re right for you, here’s my summation:

Heeler/collie mixes are super intelligent–in fact, they’re so smart that they’ll try to get away with something if they know they can 1/10 times. They also have tons of energy, so they’re great for active owners who like long hikes. They’re fiercely protective and super alert, so they make amazing watch dogs (perhaps not the best guard dog though, or maybe that’s just Piper. She’s a huge, wary baby when it comes to confrontation.) Downside-wise, if you don’t keep them occupied as a puppy, they can really become terrors. Piper had made me cry with frustration on a few occasions, but they learn quickly and like the mental stimulation, so be sure to keep onto of it and be consistent with your training. Once Piper found her place and passed the puppy stage, she became the most entertaining ball of fun. They also aren’t the biggest cuddlers, so if you’re looking for a lapdog, this is not it. I also find she’s a terrible walker, but once I started going off-leash with her, we both found relief and enjoyment. There’s nothing quite like watching her boot around with a huge smile on her face.

SaveSave