Border Collie Training

[swampyann]

I would like to train my Border Collie to work in the field moving cows. Are there any DVD's or training manuals available to help me?

Thank you

swampyann

[kjd]

Hey, Swampyann,

I see nobody has stepped up to the plate. I would suggest you do an Internet search for the DVDs but, even more, for Border Collie clubs near you. I suspect a group of BC owners in your neighborhood (in CO, that'd be about 100 mi, eh?), who use their dogs for herding would help far more than the best DVD or manual.

My dog can't even herd me downstairs to feed her!

kjd

[swampyann]

kjd,

Thank you again for responding for my request. You are right about the 100 miles plus. My neighbor has two and uses them but he just lets them do their thing and cuses like crazy when they do the wrong thing.

Maybe my question should be how do I stop my BC from going over to the fence and continiously barking at them. I can tell her that's ENOUGH!!!! and she stops and comes but then goes right back.

I have taken her right up to them on the leash and when she lunges at them and barks I will say NO and jerk her back. All that has acomplished is a good dog on the leash.

Any other suggestions?

swampyann

[kjd]

swampyann,

There is a dog trainer at expertvillage who has some videos on youtube: YouTube - Dog Herding Tips on Border Collies : How a Border Collie Herds (I found some other videos, but this fellow is giving you training tips.)

If you go here: A Border Collie Warning you will find some information about the herding instinct in BCs and how it differs from that in other breeds. Another site about herding instinct and what it means to you is at Border Collie Herding Instinct by Bill Kelly and Border Collie - The Herding Instinct by Bill Kelly. (These are two different pages, even though they seem to have the same title.)

That is enough to start. I'll be back with some books and DVDs, if I can find them.

kjd

[kjd]

Well, swampyann,

If you really want to know your dog, subscribe to a couple of border collie lists (Border Collie Mailing Lists) and talk to the experts -- those who own them.

Go to Border Collie Library for a list of books on training your BC. Although these aren't DVDs, you can find videos on training and herding of BCs on various boards, many listed at BC Boards (Powered by Invision Power Board).

That should keep you busy for a bit.

While perusing all of these, you might want to get your BC a few sheep to keep him busy!

kjd

[MaxHollyNoah]

Hi swampyann,

I saw the pics of your puppies! They are adorable!

It is not too early to start obedience training so please get on top of it!
It will be a challenge to train both dogs at the same time so you might want to have separate sessions!

You might have already started it but just wanted to throw my 2 cents in!

Whatever you do from agility to herding, the basic obedience is a must so it makes a lot of sense to give them a lot of daily practice when they are still young. BCs are thrilled with challenges, especially if there are treats involved

Let us know how it goes!

[swampyann]

Hey kjd,

Great idea on the sheep

Thank you so much for all the info. Your'e right on that should keep me busy for a while.
I will keep you posted on how it goes.

Thanks again
swampyann

[swampyann]

Hi Max,

My puppies are cute aren't they. Just like everybody's kid is the best.

You are right on being a challenge on training two at a time. When I give Sarah a command, Jagger does it also. Am working on seperating them for there lessons so at least they will be sure of there names.

I am sure you are right on the obedience training a must before herding lessons. Am anxious to see the web sites kjd has suggested.

Will keep you posted. Maybe even pics (But not of sheep )

swampyann