This morning, while listening to a podcast, a simple yet powerful phrase really resonated with me:
“Training shouldn’t be delayed if the dog is capable of doing it.”
It’s such a straightforward idea, but it holds so much truth. Far too often, I see border collie owners staying on the same training level for too long, hesitating to push forward even when their border collie is more than ready. Progress in training is crucial—not just for achieving your goals but also for keeping your border collie mentally stimulated and engaged.
But here’s the tricky part: how do you know when and how to move forward in your border collie’s training?
Know and Read Your Border Collie – Understand When They’re Ready for More
Every border collie is different, and understanding your border collie’s signals is key. Are they completing tasks with ease? Are they showing signs of boredom or disengagement? These are clues that it might be time to introduce more complexity or new challenges. Reading your border collie means paying attention to their body language, energy levels, and emotional state. When they’re consistently succeeding at a certain level, it’s often a sign they’re ready to take on something more advanced.
Know Your End Behaviour – Have a Clear Goal in Mind
One of the most common mistakes in border collie training is not having a clear end goal. Without a destination, it’s easy to get stuck or go off course. Ask yourself: what specific behaviour am I aiming for? Whether it’s a perfect heel, a reliable recall, or advanced tricks, having a clear vision helps you plan the steps needed to get there. This clarity not only keeps you focused but also helps your border collie understand what’s expected.
Know How to Guide Them Through the Steps – Training is a Journey, and You Need a Map
Training isn’t just about the end result—it’s about the journey. Like any trip, you need a map to get from point A to point B. This means breaking down behaviours into manageable steps and knowing how to bridge the gap between them. It’s about building strong foundations and knowing when to move forward. Without a clear roadmap, it’s easy to get lost or stuck, leading to frustration for both you and your border collie.
This ability to read your border collie, set clear goals, and guide them through the training journey often comes with experience. That’s why working with a professional trainer can make such a big difference.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
Maybe you’ve started training your border collie, seen some great progress, and thought, “I can handle this on my own!” And that’s great—confidence is key. But here’s something to consider: do you really know how to advance to the next level? Do you have the nuanced understanding that comes with years of hands-on experience?
Many border collie owners hit a wall in training because they either stall on the foundational steps or don’t know how to effectively move forward. It’s not that the method doesn’t work; it’s that the progression isn’t happening at the right time or in the right way. This often leads to frustration, confusion, and sometimes even giving up on the training altogether.
Training isn’t just about getting started—it’s about knowing when and how to progress. Timing is everything. Moving forward too soon can overwhelm your border collie, but waiting too long can lead to stagnation and boredom.
Don’t Wait Until Frustration Kicks In
If you’re unsure about the next steps in your border collie’s training, don’t wait until you’re stuck or frustrated. Seeking guidance early on can make a world of difference. A professional can help you read your border collie’s readiness, refine your goals, and map out the path forward, ensuring you and your border collie continue to grow and succeed together.
Progress is where the magic happens in border collie training. Don’t delay it—embrace it!
