Summer in the UK usually means mild, pleasant weather, but now and then, we’re hit with sudden heatwaves where temperatures rise rapidly and stay high for a few days before dropping again just as quickly. These short bursts of heat can be hard on our dogs, especially...
Need Help Teaching Your Border Collie to Settle? “How do I get my Border Collie to settle indoors?”It’s one of the questions I get asked the most and the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some dogs settle naturally. Others need help. And with breeds like...
IMG 7575 FOCUS, DRIVE AND MOTIVATION If there’s one thing life with Border Collies has taught me both in the city and on the farm it’s this: they are born with focus and drive, but it’s not always on us. Their attention is naturally wired to the environment, movement,...
When we think about reinforcement in dog training, we usually picture treats, toys, or praise. But did you know that reinforcement isn’t limited to what we hand over? In fact, one of the most powerful tools in your training toolbox is something you might already be...
IMG 6856 If you live with a Border Collie or any herding breed you’ll know just how powerful their focus can be. That intense stare, the lowered body, the creeping stalk… it’s part of what makes them so brilliant at their job. But it can also tip into fixation, and...
Living in an urban environment with a Border Collie can be a challenge. These incredibly intelligent, energetic dogs were bred for working with livestock, and without the proper outlets for their physical and mental energy, they can develop frustrating behaviours. But...
In the world of dog training, there’s a growing trend that’s hard to ignore — the idea that simply providing your dog with appropriate outlets, enrichment, and choice is enough to create a well-behaved, balanced dog. Social media is full of advice pushing this...
Summer border collie workshops Many dog owners worry that their dogs are just "doing it for the treat" rather than truly learning a behaviour. But let’s unpack this fear—because, in reality, this concern is based on a misunderstanding of how learning works. How Do...
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...
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...
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...
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...