Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with 2 Bergeres En Cavale Podcast (link below), two handlers, Annie-Claude Laniel & Geenvieve Pronovost from Quebec, that are passionate about herding with their Border Collies. Our topic of conversation was “Training the Dog You Have”. I thought I would continue that conversation here and see what you think.

We often hear of seasoned handlers and trainers “moving” or selling dogs on for a variety of reasons, but what happens if a handler doesn’t want to re-home a dog?

Well, there are some options. First, decide the herding goals for that particular dog, then make some decisions based on these goals. For example, if your dog has absolutely zero interest and intent to work stock, then herding may not be the right avenue for your dog.

Saying this, I would still recommend getting an evaluation from a credible trainer, to ensure, this is in fact the case. I have had some dogs turn on quite late. You can check out my “late-bloomer”, Grace as I try to build her interest level with sheep. I will continue her training updates as soon as the snow & ice melt!

Part 1: Can Instinct Be Developed?

Part 2: Starting a Pup That is 'Not so Keen'

Other dogs may have had a negative experience on stock, and with carefully, thought out sessions, some of these dogs did make considerable progress. Once again, seek out a second opinion and see what strategies can be employed to help the dog.

I have had fairly good success with this type of dog by first working it with a confident, older dog. I keep my expectations low, along with my energy levels, and just try to get the dog keen and interested in the stock. I also use stock that won’t challenge the dog and that moves fairly easily.

If your goal is to compete in a trial, then you will need to ensure your dog’s training journey includes tasks such as: outrun, lift, fetch, driving, penning and so on.

I also break down these tasks even further by making sure my dog moves stock calmly, understands flanks & a stop, is comfortable on different types of sheep and in various locations. Ultimately, it will take many, many little building blocks to create a stock dog that is ready for a competition.

As a trainer, I need to ensure I do all I can to build up my dog’s weakness or lack of ability. In other words, give them a fair shake, at becoming a decent working dog. It is up to me to provide the training experiences that will BUILD UP my dog.

While border collies have an innate ability to gather and hold stock, they DO NOT come pre-packaged with the understanding of the commands & experience executing them. Unless of course, you are fortunate to purchase a started or trained dog!!

Click here to listen to the 2 Bergeres En Cavale Podcast podcast.

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