Collie Conversations

Is your Border Collie’s nipping, reactivity, or shadow chasing more than just “Collie quirks”? Pain and discomfort could be the hidden cause! In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re diving into the fascinating connection between physical health and behaviour.

I’m Gemma Fisher, your guide to understanding Collie behaviour and helping you create a stress-free life with your dog. Many behaviour issues—like excessive nipping, sudden aggression, or obsessive behaviours—stem from underlying physical discomfort that often goes unnoticed. Border Collies are tough, and adrenaline can mask pain, making it tricky to spot!

Today, we’ll discuss how to recognise subtle signs of discomfort and what you can do to help.

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

⏳ 00:00 Intro – Could pain be affecting your Collie’s behaviour?
🩹 01:10 Why Border Collies don’t always show pain
📹 03:25 Slow-motion video: A game-changer for spotting movement issues
🐶 06:00 Signs your Collie might be uncomfortable (nipping, reactivity & more)
🦴 09:15 Subtle gait changes that indicate musculoskeletal problems
🛑 12:45 Shadow chasing & obsessive behaviours—what’s really going on?
👩‍⚕️ 16:30 Vet checks, physiotherapy, and holistic care options
✅ 20:10 Practical steps to support your Collie’s physical well-being

Pain-related behaviour issues can be misinterpreted as stubbornness or training failures. But by addressing physical health, we can help our dogs feel better and behave better!

In this episode, you'll discover:
✔️ Why reactivity and grumpiness often have a physical cause
✔️ How pain from teething, gut issues, or muscle tightness affects behavior
✔️ What to check before assuming it’s just a “training issue”
✔️ Simple exercises to improve body awareness and movement

Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group for even more expert tips, training guides, and a supportive community: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC

🔔 Subscribe for more Collie training advice and stay tuned for our next episode on creating safe training environments for your dog!

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.

Does your Border Collie seem to be in constant motion, bouncing from one activity to the next with no off switch? If so, you’re not alone! In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re unpacking why rest is not just a “nice-to-have” for your Collie but an absolute necessity for their well-being and trainability.

I’m Gemma Fisher, your guide to transforming chaos into calm and helping you understand your Border Collie’s unique needs. In this video, we’ll explore why these high-energy, intelligent dogs often struggle with downtime, what happens when they don’t rest enough, and how teaching relaxation can be the secret to a happy, well-balanced family dog.

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

00:00 Intro – From Hyper to Happy
01:08 Why Border Collies need rest more than other breeds
03:42 Signs your Collie may be overstimulated
06:15 Balancing activity and relaxation for a happier dog
09:30 Practical tips to teach your Collie to relax and settle
12:50 Creating a calm environment – tools and techniques

In this conversation, we’ll discuss the overlooked importance of rest and how it transforms everything from training success to your dog’s behavior at home. You’ll discover simple strategies to help your Collie wind down, including building a daily routine that balances activity with much-needed downtime. Plus, I’ll share tools, products, and training methods that have worked wonders for my dogs and clients!

In this episode, you'll discover:
✨ Why rest is critical for Border Collies’ mental and physical health
✨ How lack of relaxation can lead to problem behaviors like reactivity and barking
✨ The best ways to help your Collie learn to settle at home or on the go
✨ How a calm Collie makes life easier for the entire family

Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and a supportive community of Collie lovers. And make sure to subscribe for upcoming episodes, including our next one, which dives into managing Collie reactivity around other dogs!

Subscribe now for all things Collie! Thanks for tuning in, and remember—progress, not perfection, makes all the difference for you and your dog.

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.

Are you giving your Border Collie the best foundation for a healthy, happy, and balanced life? In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re uncovering the essential diet and exercise tips that can transform your Collie’s well-being and behavior.

I’m Gemma Fisher, your go-to expert in all things Collie! With years of hands-on experience, I help owners navigate the unique needs of this incredible breed. Whether you're dealing with high-energy chaos, picky eating, or struggles on walks, understanding your Collie’s diet and exercise needs is key.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this video:

• Diet Foundations: What to look for in your Collie’s food, from ingredient quality to protein sources. Learn how to identify the right option for your dog—whether it’s dry, wet, raw, or homemade—and why gut health plays a crucial role in behavior.
• Exercise Essentials: How to strike the perfect balance between enough activity and avoiding overstimulation. I’ll walk you through strategies like keeping a diary of your dog’s behavior on walks to fine-tune their exercise routine.
• Picky Eater Solutions: Are Collies really fussy, or is there something deeper happening? We’ll dive into troubleshooting meal challenges and ensuring they get the nutrition they need.
• Practical Training Tips: Understand why the right treats can make or break your training sessions, especially when distractions are high.

Through practical advice and real-life examples, this episode will empower you to make adjustments that ensure your Collie stays physically and mentally healthy.

Timestamps for Easy Navigation:
00:00 Introduction
01:10 Best food options for Border Collies
04:45 Balancing protein and gut health
07:25 Managing your Collie’s exercise needs
10:50 How diet and exercise shape behavior

Don’t forget to join my free Facebook group for extra resources, including training guides and a supportive community: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC.

Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode! Next week, we’ll focus on the importance of rest and relaxation for your Collie’s well-being.

🔔 Resources Mentioned:

• www.allaboutdogfood.com
• Millie’s Lamb & Veg Kibble and Butcher’s Wet Food
• Maxxi Digest Supplement

Thanks for watching Collie Conversations! Remember: progress, not perfection—every small win counts!

#CollieConversations #BorderCollieTips #DietAndExercise #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.

Are Border Collies Easy to Train? Let’s Talk!

Are Border Collies as easy to train as they’re made out to be? With their intelligence and energy, training a Border Collie can feel either like a breeze or a total whirlwind. In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re unpacking the truth about training these brilliant dogs and helping you understand why some things may come naturally - while others, like recall or calm behaviour, can be a challenge.

I’m Gemma Fisher, a Border Collie behaviour specialist, and my goal is to help you bring out the best in your Collie while building a strong and joyful partnership. Whether you're a first-time owner or an experienced dog lover, this episode is packed with tips, insights, and encouragement.

Here’s what we’ll dive into:

00:00 Intro – The myth vs. reality of training Collies
01:23 What makes Collies so trainable - and why it can still go wrong
04:15 The importance of motivation: How to use their instincts to your advantage
07:05 Why distractions (like balls, squirrels, or even other dogs) cause training roadblocks
10:48 Real-life stories from my dogs - what worked, what didn’t, and how we turned challenges into triumphs

Discover why understanding your Collie’s unique traits, needs, and quirks is key to their success. We'll explore how their natural instincts shape training outcomes and what you can do to work with your dog’s abilities, rather than against them.

Looking for practical advice you can start using today? I’ll share tried-and-tested strategies to keep training fun and productive while overcoming common stumbling blocks like focus issues and overexcitement.

💬 Let’s keep the conversation going!

Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for more tips, live Q&As, and support from fellow Collie owners. And subscribe to the channel for upcoming episodes, where we’ll tackle mental stimulation, recall challenges, and more.

🌟 Whether you're facing puppy teething, adolescent stubbornness, or the quirks of a rescue dog, this episode will give you the tools to move forward with confidence!

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.

🎄 Worried your Border Collie might turn into a whirlwind during Christmas?

You’re not alone! The holidays can be a tricky time for Collie owners, with excited guests, unfamiliar noises, and constant activity putting your dog’s behaviour to the test. But don’t worry - this episode of Collie Conversations is here to help you enjoy Christmas cheer without the chaos! 

I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie training and behaviour specialist, and I know firsthand how overwhelming the festive season can be for our highly intelligent, sensitive dogs. In this episode, we’ll explore practical, effective strategies for navigating the holidays with your Collie, so you can keep everyone calm, happy, and safe - including those extra-special little visitors like children. 

✨ Here’s what we’ll dive into today: 

00:00 Intro – Christmas challenges for Collie owners 
01:22 Understanding your Collie’s triggers during the holidays 
03:47 Teaching solid settles for a calm, peaceful environment 
06:10 Managing your Collie’s energy during high-stress moments 
09:15 Strategies for child-dog interactions that keep everyone safe 
12:34 Proactive planning to set your Collie (and you!) up for holiday success 

This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you handle your dog’s energy, prevent overwhelm, and prepare for situations like visitors arriving, children wanting to play, or sudden changes in the household routine. I’ll also share how to teach and reinforce calm behaviours using my Solid Settles method, so your Collie feels secure and focused even amidst holiday hustle and bustle. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

✅ How to anticipate and prevent overexcitement around guests. 
✅ Ways to balance holiday fun with your Collie’s need for routine and structure. 
✅ Tools to create safe, positive child-dog interactions. 

🐾 Need more support? Join my free Facebook group for additional tips, tricks, and a welcoming community of Collie lovers like you! (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) 

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on all things Border Collie behaviour.

#CollieConversations #BorderCollieTraining #ChristmasWithCollies #DogBehavior #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.

Does your Border Collie struggle to settle, especially when you're busy or on a work call? You're not alone! In this episode of *Collie Conversations*, we're diving into **settle training**—a game-changing skill that helps your Collie relax, no matter what's happening around them.  

I'm Gemma Fisher, your Border Collie behavior expert and host of *Collie Conversations*. In this video, I’ll guide you through the essential steps to teach your Collie to be calm and composed at home. Whether you're dealing with the "witching hour" zoomies or a dog that believes the world revolves around them, this episode is packed with practical tips to transform your Collie’s behavior.

Here’s what you’ll discover in today’s episode:  
📌 **00:00** Intro – Why settle training is essential for Collies  
📌 **02:10** The best times to start settle training for success  
📌 **05:30** How to differentiate between “Stay” and “Settle”  
📌 **08:45** Bed training basics to create a safe, calming space  
📌 **12:30** Troubleshooting tough times—like the evening zoomies  
📌 **15:00** Advanced training for high-level distractions (like doorbells and sneezes!)  

From choosing the right time to start training, to using tools like Adaptil for added calmness, I’ll walk you through the process of shaping your Collie’s behavior step-by-step. We’ll explore why many owners struggle with this skill and how to build calmness using positive reinforcement and clear criteria.  

By the end of this episode, you’ll have actionable strategies to help your Collie chill out—even during busy, distracting moments at home.  

👉 Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group for more training tips, resources, and support from a community of Collie owners just like you: [https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC](https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC).  

🔔 **Stay tuned!** Next week, we’ll be talking about how to have a relaxed, safe, and joyful Christmas with your Collie!  

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.

Does your Collie ignore your calls when they’re fixated on something exciting—like a squirrel, a jogger, or even another dog? You’re not alone! Recall is one of the most important skills every Border Collie owner needs, and in this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re unlocking The Collie Recall Training Blueprint to help you build a reliable recall, no matter the distraction.

I’m Gemma Fisher, your go-to expert on all things Collie. As a trainer specialising in these brilliant (and sometimes seemingly stubborn!) dogs, I’m here to help you understand how to communicate effectively with your Collie and turn recall training into a fun, successful journey for both of you.

In today’s episode, you’ll learn:

Why a reliable recall is more than just a cue—it’s a lifestyle shift.
How to structure recall training with back-chaining for success.
Why your choice of rewards (food, toys, or activities) matters so much.
The surprising connection between loose lead walking and recall reliability.
How to troubleshoot common mistakes and avoid overusing recall cues.
You’ll also discover the secret to teaching cues like “This Way,” which not only improve recall but also build focus and teamwork with your dog. By the end of this video, you’ll have a clear plan to tackle recall challenges with confidence.

💡 What’s Next?
Don’t forget to join my free Facebook group for more recall training tips, Q&A sessions, and step-by-step guides tailored to Border Collie owners. It’s packed with resources to help you succeed!

🌟 About Collie Culture Club:
This episode is sponsored by Collie Culture Club, my membership program designed to support Collie owners in achieving their training goals. Whether you’re struggling with reactivity, overexcitement, or recall, you’ll find the guidance you need to turn challenges into wins.

👉 What’s your biggest recall struggle? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to help!

🔔 Stay Tuned!
Next episode, we’re focusing on teaching your Collie to relax at home—a must-watch for anyone managing a high-energy dog.

Remember: progress, not perfection! Celebrate every small win, and let’s build the ultimate partnership with your Collie. 🐾

#CollieConversations #BorderCollieTraining #DogRecallTraining #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.

Struggling with your Collie pulling on the lead or feeling like walks are a battle instead of a bonding moment? You're not alone! In this episode of *Collie Conversations*, we’re tackling one of the most common challenges for Border Collie owners: loose lead walking. 

I’m Gemma Fisher, your go-to expert for all things Border Collie. In this video, I’ll walk you through step-by-step strategies to transform your Collie’s pulling into calm, controlled walking—so you can enjoy stress-free strolls together. 

We’ll cover everything from choosing the right gear to teaching your Collie to value staying by your side. You’ll also learn how to help your dog handle distractions, regulate their pace, and respond to key verbal cues like "Close" and "Side." 

Here’s what you can expect in today’s episode: 

*00:00 Intro – Turning loose lead walking struggles into strengths* 
*01:10 Essential walking gear – harnesses, leads, and setup tips* 
*03:45 Teaching calm behavior while getting ready for walks* 
*06:20 Building value for walking by your side—on both the left and right* 
*08:50 How to practice loose lead walking in different environments* 
*11:30 Managing distractions with distance, duration, and difficulty* 
*15:00 Homework locations – from garden centers to train stations* 

This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you and your Collie conquer loose lead walking, no matter their age or experience level. From practical training exercises to mindset tips for both you and your dog, you’ll walk away with the tools you need to make progress today. 

Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for exclusive resources, training guides, and a supportive community of Collie owners. Plus, I answer your burning questions in weekly live Q&A sessions! 

Stay tuned for the next episode, where we’ll dive into the holy grail of Collie training: reliable recall. 

🔔 *Resources Mentioned in This Episode:*  
Join Collie Culture Club for step-by-step training guidance, live Q&A sessions, and personalised advice tailored to your dog: [Learn more here].  

Thanks for watching *Collie Conversations*! Remember - progress, not perfection, and every small win counts!  

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.

Does your Collie lunge at every passing car, motorbike, or bicycle? You’re not alone! Many Border Collies struggle with traffic reactivity, making walks stressful and sometimes even dangerous. In this episode of *Collie Conversations*, we’re exploring why these intelligent, high-energy dogs are so drawn to chase moving vehicles—and, most importantly, how you can help them stay calm and focused. 

I'm Gemma Fisher, your go-to expert in Border Collie behavior. In this video, we’ll break down the instincts behind your Collie’s behavior, the triggers that can escalate their reactions, and practical solutions to help you regain control during walks. Whether your dog’s reactivity is mild or full-blown, this episode will guide you toward a calmer, more enjoyable experience for both you and your Collie. 

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode: 
00:00 Intro – Why Collies Chase Cars 
01:15 The instinctive drive behind reactivity 
04:10 How trigger stacking makes reactivity worse 
06:45 Why loose lead walking is the foundation of traffic training 
09:20 Building trust and focus: managing versus solving reactivity 
12:30 Practical tips for short, effective training sessions  

In this episode, you’ll learn:  

• Why Collies are naturally wired to chase moving objects  
  
  
• How to manage reactivity while working toward long-term solutions  
  
  
• The importance of distance, duration, and distractions in training  
  
  
• Simple strategies to create a calm environment and reduce trigger exposure  
  
  

Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC), where you’ll find more training tips, support from other Collie owners, and answers to your specific questions in my weekly Q&A sessions! 

🔔 Resources Mentioned in the Video 🔔 
Stay tuned for the next Collie Conversations episode, where we’ll dive deeper into loose lead walking and how to make it a stress-free experience.  

Thanks for watching, and remember—progress, not perfection!  

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.

Does your Collie’s intense focus or drive sometimes seem puzzling or even overwhelming? If so, you’re not alone! In this episode of Collie Conversations, titled Understanding Collies: Why Instinct Matters, we’re taking a deep dive into the unique traits of Border Collies that make them such incredible—and occasionally challenging—companions. Discover why instinct is at the core of everything your Collie does, from their laser-sharp focus to their quick reactions and endless energy.

I’m Gemma Fisher, your guide to Collie behaviour and training. With years of experience working exclusively with Border Collies, I’m here to help you understand what makes these dogs so unique—and how you can tap into their instincts to bring out the best in them. In this video, we’ll explore the original purpose of Border Collies, designed for intense work in rugged environments, and why understanding their working heritage is key to meeting their needs today.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what we’ll cover:

00:00 Intro – Collie Instincts Explained
01:32 The Collie’s Heritage – From Shepherd’s Field to Today’s Homes
04:10 Understanding the Prey Drive Sequence – Search, Stalk, Chase
07:20 Breed-Specific Temperament Traits – Tenacity, Intelligence, and Sensitivity
09:54 Balancing Arousal Levels – Helping Collies Manage Their Energy
13:15 Practical Tips for Channeling Instincts in Positive Ways

In this episode, you’ll learn why Collies are naturally keen and alert, and how their instincts can sometimes lead to challenges if they’re not given the right outlets. We’ll cover the unique “dimmer switch” concept to help you regulate your dog’s energy and teach them to calm down after exciting activities. With practical tips on creating mental stimulation and tasks that suit their heritage, this episode is packed with insights to deepen your connection with your Collie.

🎬 Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for more tips, advice, and a community of fellow Collie owners. And be sure to subscribe to Collie Conversations for upcoming episodes on reactivity, recall, and other common Collie challenges!

What you’ll gain in this episode:

A deeper understanding of why Border Collies behave the way they do
Insight into Collie-specific traits and how to work with them
Practical techniques for managing energy and excitement levels
🔔 Next episode, we’re talking about Collie reactivity and social dynamics with other dogs—don’t miss it!

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.