Episode #21: Bringing Out the Best in Your Border Collie

Does your Collie ever leave you wondering, “Are we ever going to get there?” You’re not alone! Whether it’s reactivity, lead pulling, chasing, or just a sense that your dog is too much, this episode of Collie Conversations is here to offer one powerful message: your Border Collie is not a lost cause - and change is absolutely possible.

I'm Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and behaviour coach, and in this episode, I’m sharing uplifting stories of real-life Collies and their owners who faced major challenges - and came out the other side stronger, calmer, and more connected. From sound-sensitive rescues to leash-pulling whirlwind puppies, I’ve worked with every type of Collie personality, and I’ve seen firsthand how a few key shifts can completely transform life with your dog.

Here’s a quick look at what we’ll cover in today’s episode:

00:00 Welcome to Collie Conversations
00:37 What to do when your Collie feels like too much
02:10 Real client stories: from anxious and reactive to calm and connected
08:34 Why physical health and gut issues matter more than you think
11:48 What most trainers miss when working with Collies
14:55 Three practical steps to move forward with your Collie today

In this episode, here's just a few of my students you'll hear about:

✔️ Steve & Orla - a first-time Collie owner building real trust and loose lead success
✔️ Sue & Kea - from rally ring meltdowns to calm qualifications
✔️ Jacqui & Monty - a sound-sensitive Collie who slept through fireworks
✔️ Deborah & Merlin - reactivity progress through patient, layered training
✔️ Colin & Poppy - trauma recovery and the power of emotional safety

You’ll also get three practical steps you can take right now:

Find what works for YOUR dog - forget one-size-fits-all.

Celebrate every small win - even one check-in matters.

Stay consistent - patience builds the real magic.

🎧 Listen, take notes, and let yourself feel hopeful. Your Collie is capable of incredible things - sometimes all they need is someone willing to try something new.

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#CollieConversations #BorderCollieTraining #DogBehaviour #GemmaFisher #ReactiveDogSupport #CollieRecall #LooseLeadWalking #DogTrainingSuccess #CollieHelp

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.