Border collies are so smart, they will be easier to train …. Is what so many people think, myself included. Well was I wrong!!
I got my first border collie Harry more than 20 years ago. I very quickly realized that I was going to have my hands full and this wasn’t going to be easy.
Training a Border Collie can be one of the most rewarding—and sometimes challenging—experiences you’ll ever have with a dog. Walking on a lead was one of the most challenging I found …. lots of tripping was involved. They’re among the most intelligent breeds in the world, and that brain needs something to do. Sometimes too smart and looking to out smart you. If they’re not given direction, they’ll make their own “jobs”—like herding your kids, chasing shadows, or reorganizing your laundry. As challenging as it is to train 1 training 2 at the same time has been interesting. Colburn and Loch have given me lots of laughs and some frustrations along the way. And even though they are 4 years old. The training doesn’t stop.
Border Collies were bred to think, work, and respond. They thrive on:
Routine Clear direction Mental stimulation Positive reinforcement
If they’re not mentally and physically challenged, they may get anxious or destructive.
Even though they learn fast, don’t skip basic obedience:
Sit Down Stay Recall (Come) Leave it
Use treats, toys, and lots of praise. Border Collies are people pleasers, so they love knowing when they’ve done something right.
💡 Pro tip: Use short, focused training sessions (5–10 minutes) multiple times a day. Keep it fun!
This breed needs at least 1.5–2 hours of activity daily:
Walks and off-leash runs Agility Frisbee or fetch Scent games Trick training (yes, teach them how to “tidy up” their toys!)
Avoid changing phrases (e.g., don’t switch between “Come” and “Here”). Use short, sharp words, and reward quickly when they respond.
Body language matters too—Border Collies are sensitive to movement and tone.
This is often overlooked. Because they’re go-go-go, you also need to teach your Border Collie how to chill:
Use place training (“Go to your bed.”) Reward calmness. Avoid overstimulation.
Colburn and Loch aren’t just pets—they’re family. They’ve taught me patience, the value of daily adventures, and how to find joy in the simple things. Their bond with each other is beautiful to witness, full of silent communication and playful rivalry. And their love? It’s unconditional.
If you’re ever lucky enough to share your life with a Border Collie—or two—you’ll never be bored again. Colburn and Loch have turned my world into a whirlwind of wagging tails, muddy paws, and unconditional love. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Thanks again for reading.
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TheMcCallumShop 