In July, I authored a blog post titled "4 Key points NOT to do while training." The post garnered a lot of feedback from our Facebook group, with members kindly sharing their suggestions.

Since I enjoy sharing stock dog training strategies, I thought I would summarize the feedback from group members for you.

Kathy wrote: “Never train when angry. Determined, intense, focused, sure…but not angry. Emotional control is a huge part of good training.”

Scout shared: “Quit jumping ahead without first getting the fundamentals down first. If I am having problems at 40 yards, moving out to 100 yards isn't going to help... it's going to hurt. Quit leaving your patience behind. Develop, encourage, and learn to love being patient.”

Nancy added: “My number one point NOT to do is not to let your dog take off on his own. My dog is tough that way, but he is learning to be my partner. I have to be mindful to ensure he is with me when I am training, and not get lazy and let him do his thing, it's easy to let him do his thing as he is so often correct and good on his sheep, but he has to start with me.

Jennifer wrote: “Never go train with your mind occupied with something else. You are better off just sitting down and having a cup of tea and clear your head first.”

Bev shared: “Never allow your dog to learn to run to the back of the pen after you close the gate!” (If you have ever dog trialled, you will understand this point! When you finally get the sheep in the pen, and are about to close the gate, and your dog races around the back of the pen and pushes them back out - BEFORE YOU CLOSE THE GATE).

The beauty of sharing ideas within a community of like-minded individuals is the opportunity for learning, growth, and improvement in training techniques. Personally, this aspect brings me immense joy and is a true blessing. If you haven't yet joined our FB group, please send a request HERE.

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