Collie Conversations

Does your Border Collie bark at every movement in the garden? Stare at you intensely, waiting for something—anything—to happen? Chase cars, joggers, or even herd your other pets? If so, your Collie might be suffering from the "Unemployment Problem!"

In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re diving into why mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise—and how giving your Collie a job can transform their behavior.

I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and your guide to understanding these brilliant but often misunderstood dogs. Today, we’ll explore how Collies who lack structured work often create their own jobs—like barking at everything, obsessing over balls, or rearranging your furniture! But the good news? With the right activities, you can redirect that energy into something productive and enjoyable for both of you.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

⏳ 00:00 Intro – Why your Collie needs a job
🐕 01:20 Common signs of Collie "unemployment" (barking, chasing, staring, chewing)
🧠 03:45 Why mental stimulation is key to preventing problem behaviors
🎾 06:30 Practical "jobs" you can give your Collie – from toy games to real-life tasks
💡 10:15 Easy ways to build engagement and make training part of everyday life
✅ 12:40 How structured mental exercise strengthens your bond and improves focus

You’ll also get real-life training ideas you can start today, including fun trick training, scent work, and interactive problem-solving games. Plus, I’ll show you how to use lifestyle jobs (like structured greetings or waiting calmly) to build everyday obedience naturally.

Want to dive deeper?
📌 Sign up for my trick training course: Circus Dog Central (30+ lessons to challenge your Collie’s brain!)
📌 Grab “Playtime for Your Dog” by Christina Sondermann – packed with enrichment ideas
📌 Join my free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for more training tips & community support

A gainfully employed Collie is a happy, well-balanced Collie. Let’s shift from chaos to calm—one training game at a time!

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more expert tips on recall, reactivity, and life with a high-energy Collie.

#CollieConversations #BorderCollieTraining #DogBehavior #MentalStimulation #GemmaFisher

Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.