Episode #19: Are You Both Struggling? Managing Your Mental Health and Your Collie’s Reactivity

Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or isolated because of your reactive Collie’s behaviour? You're definitely not alone! In this episode of Collie Conversations, we're talking openly about the emotional impact living with a reactive Border Collie can have on owners, and most importantly, what you can do to manage your mental health and help your dog at the same time.

I'm Gemma Fisher, and after years of helping reactive Collies and their humans, I've seen firsthand how deeply our dogs' behaviours can affect our emotional well-being. Reactive Collies can turn what should be relaxing walks into tense experiences, making even a stroll around the block feel overwhelming. Owners often find themselves constantly vigilant, worried about their dog’s unpredictable reactions. This ongoing stress doesn't just affect your walks - it can seep into everyday life, leaving you feeling isolated and withdrawn from the social activities you once enjoyed.

But here's the good news: there is hope, and things absolutely can get better!

In today’s video, we'll dive into the reasons behind your Collie's reactions, why your emotional state matters, and practical strategies that can significantly improve life for both you and your dog. We'll explore research-backed insights on how stress affects decision-making - for both humans and Collies - and why practicing specific, calm responses can become your best tool during challenging moments.

Here's a snapshot of what you'll find in today's Collie Conversation:

00:00 Intro – Reactivity & Your Mental Health
01:23 Understanding the emotional toll of owning a reactive Collie
03:50 Why your dog’s reactivity often feels unpredictable (and how to find patterns!)
06:10 Overcoming isolation: Reclaiming your social life with a reactive dog
08:25 Why “just relax” never works, and what you can do instead
10:40 Habits and routines: your secret weapon for stressful situations
12:55 Three actionable steps to build confidence and reduce anxiety

You'll come away from this episode with clear, actionable strategies, including choosing one helpful habit to practice regularly, keeping a simple journal to spot triggers and successes, and connecting with supportive communities like our Collie Culture Club.

Join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) to find more resources, connect with fellow reactive Collie owners, and access personalised advice.

Thanks for watching Collie Conversations! Don’t forget to subscribe, and remember - you’re not alone, and progress is always possible!

#CollieConversations #ReactiveDog #BorderCollieTraining #DogOwnerMentalHealth #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.