Why Puppy Training for Border Collies Isn’t About Basic Obedience

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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 like human children, puppies take time to develop their ability to perform complex behaviours. Border Collies, in particular, are incredibly intelligent and active dogs, but they need the right support to grow into their full potential. Here’s what they need:

  • Learning to Communicate: Puppies must learn how to communicate appropriately with people, dogs, and their environment.
  • Body Awareness: Confidence in using their body is critical, especially for a breed as agile and energetic as the Border Collie.
  • Focus and Consistency: Puppies need time to develop the ability to focus and repeat learned behaviours in various environments.

Why “Stay” Isn’t Necessary

In my training, I never teach puppies to “stay.” Instead, they naturally learn the concept of stillness through our training. For instance, just like a plant rooted to the ground, they pick up the skill by developing an understanding of calmness and control in the position I teach them, mainly a lie down.

Building a Strong Relationship

Border Collie puppies learn to come back to their owner not because they’ve been drilled to obey, but because they see their human as valuable and worth returning to. This comes from creating a relationship rooted in trust, mutual respect, and fun learning experiences.

Focus Comes With Time

Puppies don’t need to be taught to “pay attention” in the traditional sense. Instead, focus is a skill that develops as their confidence and understanding grow. Once they’re old enough to focus, everyday activities like walks become far more enjoyable and stress-free.

Recognising Overwhelm and Tiredness

Border Collie puppies can easily become overwhelmed by their surroundings. Loud sounds, meeting new dogs and people, unfamiliar smells, or even just being overtired can impact their ability to control their emotions and behaviour. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Overtraining and Overexercising: Young puppies shouldn’t be pushed too hard. When they’re tired, they’re more likely to “misbehave” or struggle to learn.
  • Signs of Overwhelm: Recognising when your puppy is tired or overstimulated is crucial for their development and wellbeing.

Gradual Skill Building for Success

As a Border Collie owner, it’s essential to build your puppy’s skills gradually. This means creating the right foundation so that:

  • You don’t accidentally overwhelm or frustrate them.
  • You allow their natural abilities to be channeled into training with you, not into external distractions.
  • You provide the mental stimulation they crave while ensuring their developmental needs are met.

Keeping Your Border Collie Engaged

Working-bred dogs like Border Collies thrive when they have enough mental and physical stimulation. But this doesn’t mean pushing them into endless exercise or ball throwing sessions. Instead, focus on teaching them skills that challenge and satisfy their curious, intelligent nature.

Do you need help with your Border Collie training and behaviour?
Send me a contact form!

Watch the video to see my training with puppy Tali:


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Martina Miradoli Border Coolie Expert Dog trainer

Hello, my name is Martina Miradoli and I specialise in training Border Collies.

I’ve owned Border Collies for many years and have trained them, along with other herding breeds in every sport and activity available.

This has allowed me to gain invaluable experience and an understanding of these unique dogs and the behavioural challenges that we may have to face as owners. 

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