Field Notes + Science
Journal
A dog-life resource that starts from what we observe at ROSCH KENNEL, then checks those questions against published research, objective data, and daily field notes.
Questions from the field
We begin with the practical questions that appear while living with and raising dogs.
Checked against evidence
We compare those questions with research, public data, test results, and observable facts.
Useful at home
We translate the result into practical points families can observe, discuss, and use.
How to read the categories
Not only experience. Not only data.
The journal connects what we see in the kennel with evidence and practical care. Each article should help readers understand the question, the supporting facts, and how to apply the idea responsibly.Questions from the field
We begin with the practical questions that appear while living with and raising dogs.
Checked against evidence
We compare those questions with research, public data, test results, and observable facts.
Useful at home
We translate the result into practical points families can observe, discuss, and use.
Outdoor life, environment, and daily dog living from a field perspective.
Prevention, health risks, and care decisions reviewed with evidence.
Behavior, learning, exercise, and mental balance through observation and science.
Genetic and genomic topics explained for families.
Guides for choosing, welcoming, socializing, and living with a dog.
Food, growth, and everyday health translated into practical care.
Breeding and rearing notes shaped by daily observation.
Science Lens
Featured Resource
Coat Color Genetics in Border Collies and Our Approach to Healthy Breeding
A scientific deep dive into the seven genetic loci (A, B, D, E, K, M, S) that determine Border Collie coat color. Double merle health risks, misconceptions about dilute colors, breeding pair genotype considerations, and ROSCH KENNEL's data-driven approach to responsible reproduction.
Field Note
All Articles
River Swimming With a Border Collie — A Summer Water-Safety Framework
River play with a Border Collie is not safe just because the water feels cool. Learn how to manage current, water quality, life jackets, water intoxication, and aftercare.
Border Collie Tick Prevention — SFTS, Babesiosis, MDR1 Mutation, and Evidence-Based Parasite Control
SFTS tick-borne disease kills roughly 40% of infected dogs in Japan. In 2025, cases were confirmed in Kanagawa and Hokkaido for the first time. Here's what Border Collie owners need to know about MDR1 and choosing the right preventive.
Heartworm Prevention in Border Collies — HDU Science and Choosing the Right Drug
Understanding Heartworm Development Units, Kagoshima's infection season data, and the accurate relationship between Border Collies and ABCB1 mutations — explained with peer-reviewed evidence.
Border Collies and Agility — The Science Behind the Perfect Match, and How to Start Safely
Border Collies rank #1 in working intelligence among all dog breeds. Here's why they excel in agility, what the injury statistics actually say, and how to build a solid foundation — without risking your dog's developing skeleton.
Hip Dysplasia in Border Collies — Prevalence, Genetics, Prevention, and Diagnosis
Border Collie hip dysplasia affects 8–11% of screened dogs per OFA data. This research-based guide covers heritability (h²=0.61), PennHIP vs. OFA screening accuracy, environmental risk factors, and what to look for in a responsible breeder.
More Exercise Won't Fix Your Border Collie — The Science of Overstimulation and Mental Enrichment
If your Border Collie runs for an hour but won't settle at home, the problem isn't lack of exercise — it's overstimulation. The science behind five evidence-based approaches to proper mental enrichment.
ROSCH KENNEL Became a Game — Introducing ROSCH Craft Virtual Kennel Tour
We wanted to create a place where people could play with dogs even if they couldn't own one. ROSCH Craft recreates our Kirishima kennel in voxel art, featuring our real dogs. Why a game, and what can you do there?
Puppy Socialization — The Critical Window from 3 to 16 Weeks
The socialization period has a decisive impact on a puppy's future temperament. A detailed look at the ENS program and socialization training protocols practiced at ROSCH KENNEL.
The Role of DNA Testing — A Minimum Benchmark for Border Collie Health Management
CEA, TNS, CL, MDR1, and more — 15 genetic tests relevant to Border Collies. These represent a minimum benchmark, not a comprehensive guarantee. What testing covers, its inherent limitations, and the true responsibilities of a breeder.
What You Should Know Before Getting a Border Collie
Exercise isn't everything. Drawing from years of experience as specialist Border Collie breeders who have placed over 500 puppies in homes, here's what truly matters most — communication with your dog — and the five key things every potential owner should understand.
Nutrition During Growth — Choosing the Right Food and Homemade Topping Recipes for Puppies
What does optimal nutritional balance look like for a Border Collie puppy? Human-grade ingredient topping recipes and feeding guidelines tailored to each life stage.
The ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation) Program — Evolving Puppy Rearing Alongside Science
Born from U.S. military research, the ENS program has been implemented at ROSCH KENNEL since day one. An honest look at the practice, where the evidence stands today, and the two factors that truly shape a dog's entire life.
Daily observation is where the next article begins.
Instagram shows the dogs in daily life. The journal turns the themes we notice there into evidence-aware resources.