THE BORDER COLLIE BLOG
Articles full of information to help you and your dog.
Please scroll through or choose a category to suit your situation.
Choose your category!
Why Puppy Training for Border Collies Isn’t About Basic Obedience
by Martina_bcoLLie | Jan 16, 2025
When it comes to training Border Collie puppies, the focus shouldn’t be on obedience or ticking off a list of basic commands. Instead, it’s about building a foundation for confidence, communication, and lifelong learning. Here’s why: Puppies Need Time to Develop Much...
Border Collie Puppy Teething: What is it all about?
by Martina_bcoLLie | Jan 9, 2025
We all know that puppies go through the process of teething as they transition from their baby teeth to adult teeth. But for many, this stage involves more than just gnawing on furniture, mouthing hands and feet, or bouts of restlessness. Teething can significantly...
When the recall fails…
by Martina_bcoLLie | Apr 24, 2024
I want to be real and tell you exactly the reality of things as there is no point me telling you he is amazing and I'm doing great as that won't help you! I have been feeling more confident lately that he has finally got used to the routine, he sticks around more and...
You can’t take the herding instinct away from the Border Collie.
by Martina_bcoLLie | Jan 31, 2024
If you follow me on Facebook and are in my free training group, The Border Collie Geek Learning Hub, you might have seen this interesting post. One of my members asked me a very interesting question! "When your collie is given increased access to other herding...
Understanding Reactivity in Border Collies
by Martina_bcoLLie | Nov 6, 2023
Reactivity in dogs is a term that often raises questions and sparks debates among dog owners and trainers as some don't like the word "reactive" as it doesn't explain exactly what it is that your going is going through.In some ways I agree but I find this is the term...
Episode 15: How to train a perfect recall?
by Martina_bcoLLie | Sep 25, 2023
How does a good recall looks like? I tell you what is looks life for me and how I train it!Recall is not an easy before, it's not just about rewarding the dog when they come back! It's a complex chain of behaviour where prey drive, impulse control and motivation play...
Failed Sheepdogs
by Martina_bcoLLie | Aug 22, 2023
What is a failed sheepdog? Is a failed sheepdog a good fit for a pet home? This post is not to scare people away from adopting a failed sheepdog but it’s to raise awareness of the potential issues you can encounter if you go and adopt or buy a failed sheepdog from a...
Walking vs Training: how much walking is too much walking for your Border Collie?
by Martina_bcoLLie | Jul 6, 2023
Border Collies, known for their intelligence and boundless energy, are an exceptional breed that thrives on mental stimulation and purposeful training. While regular exercise is essential for their well-being, it's important to understand that walking alone may not...
How to start your Border Collie training journey successfully!
by Martina_bcoLLie | Jun 27, 2023
Embarking on a new adventure or entering a new life stage, such as bringing home your first dog or exploring a new breed, is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it's essential to make the right choices to set yourself and your dog up for success. In this...