Border Collies have been owned and loved by people for centuries. This is a dog that has long been renowned for herding sheep but is also associated with competitive sports, sledding, therapy and assistance, search and rescue, hunting and companionship. A typical Border Collie is a very strong-willed, intelligent, and instinctual animal, which makes her a joy to be around as long as she is well trained.
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Teach Your Border Collie His or Her Name
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Border Collies are very smart dogs and they pick up on things very quickly. To create a bond with your Border Collie the first thing you need to do is teach him his name, so when you are speaking the dog understands you are addressing him. To do so, simply say the name that you have chosen and then give him a treat. Repeat until the dog responds to his name.
Discouraging the Herding Mentality
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Border Collies have an instinctual desire to herd animals and people that they are around. If you have children you may find that when they are outside playing that your Border Collie wants to herd the kids, or lead the pack. When you see herding activity have the children stop what they are doing and scold the dog. Let the dog know every time this behavior is seen that it is not her job.
Correcting Your Border Collie
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Because Border Collies are so smart correct unwanted behavior immediately. While something may be cute the first couple times, over time what was once cute will not be any more. As soon as you see a behavior, such as begging or digging, say "no!" in a low and growl-like tone of voice. Then show the dog what you want her to do. Follow this process of correction and praise every time to be most effective.
Border Collies and Crate Training
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Border Collies do best with crate training because they are work dogs and they like being able to predict what is coming next. When crate training the dog will be put into a crate whenever you cannot watch or interact with her. To housebreak the dog, let her outside immediately after coming out of the crate. Praise her every time she goes potty outside. The dog will quickly pick up on the fact that the crate is her safe place and the outside is meant for relieving herself and playing.
Give Your Dog a Job
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Border Collies are born working dogs, they easily get bored and if they don't have something to do they may get into trouble. Work with your dog as much as possible, teaching tricks, going to obedience school, or even teaching her to do things like getting the paper or walking around the yard with you. So long as the dog feels like it is doing a job, she will be a lot happier and less irritable.
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