Back in February, I was fortunate to meet up with 2 Bergeres En Cavale Podcast , two handlers, Annie-Claude Laniel & Geenvieve Pronovost from Quebec (link here). We had a good discussion on “training the dog that you have”, not writing them off too soon.

Today, I want to share four key points I try NOT to do when training.

1. Quit comparing the dog’s development based on age. For example, while Spot may have been capable of competing successfully at the age of two, Bess needed another year of maturing and practical experience before heading to the trial field. Each dog will be different.

2. Quit comparing the dog you are trying to train to your older, more experienced dog. This is very easy to do. I think we forget how many hours of training and experience the seasoned dog underwent! Maybe the seasoned dog was a natural at everything (very rare), but that won’t help solve issues with the dog in training.

3. Quit expecting the young dog to automatically understand a task. If I am trying to load a chute with a young dog, I can’t expect that it will be able to control itself at all times. Loading chutes is exciting work - clanking gates, sheep feeling pressured, tight spaces, me possibly yelling and so on. This will build excitement in the young dog and some dogs will dive in and grip more or some might even want to leave. It’s up to me to ensure the experience is positive.

4. Quit expecting the dog to be confident in all situations. Some certainly might, however, most require steady confidence building. For instance, if I have a softer type dog, I may work it with an experienced dog while moving heavy, tough stock. This will provide backup for the young dog and allow it to understand its role.

I worked with a trainer once that would deliberately hone in on the dog’s weakness, and then set into motion a plan to build up the dog’s ability. The plan was thorough and lasted until that weakness became a strength. I always admire the tenacity of this trainer.

She always said that, as long as the dog had heart to work, most faults could be solved through hard work. For me, this line of thought is worthwhile remembering.

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