Episode #22: Barking, Loss, and the Gift of Being Seen

Does your Collie bark at… everything? Whether it’s the doorbell, a passing squirrel, or just your neighbour putting the bins out - barking can feel relentless. But what if it’s not just noise? What if barking is communication, confusion, or even heartbreak?

In this deeply personal episode of Collie Conversations, I’m pulling back the curtain on my own journey with barking - from the early days of frustration, shame, and overwhelm… to a completely new understanding of what our dogs are really trying to say.

I'm Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist, trainer, and lifelong student of these incredible dogs. And today, I’m sharing my honest reflections on the dogs who shaped me - the ones who barked because I hadn’t yet learned how to listen.

Here’s a look at what you’ll discover in this episode:

00:00 Intro – The real story behind barking
 03:15 Lucy, Toby, and those early judgements
 08:46 Kai barking at my wedding (yes, really!)
 12:01 Barking in agility: Ella’s FOMO and my turning point
 18:50 What I wish I’d done differently - and what I now teach
 24:10 When barking becomes a conversation, not a battle
 28:40 Seeing the dog behind the noise: grief, growth, and gratitude
 34:05 Practical takeaways for helping your own Collie feel heard

This episode isn’t just about barking. It’s about forgiveness - of your dog and yourself. It’s about recognising that behaviour is communication. And it’s about the profound transformation that happens when your Collie knows you truly see them.

Whether you’re struggling with barking at home, on walks, or during training… or you’ve ever felt like a bad dog owner because you just can’t seem to stop it - this conversation is for you.

👥 Want more help and support with your Border Collie?
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 Let’s keep learning, keep growing, and keep listening - one bark at a time.

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.