The Walking Club

How do I live with a herding breed?

Herding dogs need work for their brains as well as their legs, or they invent a job.
2 min read·Field notes

Short answer: herding breeds are smart and driven. They need things to do, not just exercise, or they may start chasing, nipping or herding on their own.

What Battersea and the AKC say

Battersea says Border Collies need about two hours of exercise a day plus problem solving such as extra training. It says that without enough physical and mental activity they can become frustrated and start chasing or herding. The AKC says they fare best when they have a job.

Give them a job

Short training sessions, scent games, and puzzle feeders all count. See find the toy and a sniff walk. For chasing, see chasing running children.

Do not just add miles

More running can build more fitness, not more calm. Mix in rest. See too wired after fetch.

Get the right help

If herding turns into nipping people or chasing cars, ask a qualified trainer for help.

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RelatedWhy Is My Dog More Wired After Fetch?
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