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A black and white Border Collie walking along a wooden fence while a small brown bunny sits in the dirt below. 3 / 23

The Border Collie Had Her Eyes on Something Small Near the Fence

AI imageborder colliebunnyfarm fence

A weathered wooden fence runs along the garden, and a black-and-white Border Collie is walking its length with her head low and her gaze locked ahead. A small brown bunny sits in the dirt beside the bottom rail, ears up, watching her come. The sun is slanting through the leaves and lighting the dust, and neither animal seems to be in a hurry to do anything about the other.

Border Collies are famous for their intense focus, known as the eye, which they use to control sheep. This stare is wonderful for herding but means they can fixate on small, fast-moving things, like a rabbit. With proper training, many Border Collies learn to stay calm around small animals. It takes patience and plenty of rewards for ignoring the urge to chase.

If a dog and a rabbit share a yard, a secure fence and a safe hiding place for the rabbit are essential. Rabbits are easily frightened, so a gentle approach and a calm dog are very important. Always supervise, and never leave the two alone together until you are very sure how each will behave. Your vet can offer advice on safe introductions.

The collie looks calm and the bunny, Pip, looks curious. It is a gentle standoff that could turn into friendship. Sometimes the best meetings happen along a quiet fence line.

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