Ever wondered why your Border Collie suddenly zooms around the garden, digs up half the lawn, or acts completely different at agility class? Or maybe you’re struggling with visitor nerves, stressy greetings, or the classic keep-away game? You’re in the right place! Welcome to Collie Conversations, where we dive into the real questions Collie owners face every week - live and unscripted.

I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and founder of Collie Culture. In this week’s episode, I’m answering fresh questions from our Facebook community about some of the trickiest Collie challenges - like anxiety in group classes, settling around visitors, and those energetic outbursts we all know too well.

Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:

• Digging, Grass Eating & Garden Drama: Why is your Collie attacking the grass or digging frantically every time you go outside? We’ll look at possible gut or digestive reasons, as well as stress-related habits and what you can do to help.
• Visitor Nerves & Barky Greetings: Does your Collie rush at guests, bark, or act unsure - even with people they know? I’ll break down why this happens, the importance of patterns and “meet and greet” protocols, and how to build safer, calmer social experiences for everyone.
• Agility Class Anxiety: Is your Collie more stressed than excited in group agility? We discuss why beginner classes can be overwhelming, life skills to practice before you go, and how to create positive experiences - plus tips for bringing the fun home to your garden!
• The Dreaded Keep-Away Game: If your Collie has learned to dodge you whenever you reach for their collar, you’re not alone. Discover how to flip the script and make collar grabs something your dog actually looks forward to with simple daily habits.
• Summer Heat Tips: Struggling to wear your Collie out when it’s too hot to walk? Try “free work” and Tellington TTouch-inspired activities to burn energy and keep your dog cool and content.

Whether you’ve got a sensitive adolescent, an agility hopeful, or a classic Collie mischief-maker, you’ll find encouragement and practical advice for making real progress - no perfection required.

👉 Got a burning Collie question? Join our free Facebook group to submit yours and connect with a community that truly gets it: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC

Don’t forget to subscribe for new Collie Conversations every week.

Thanks for tuning in - every calm moment is a win!

#CollieConversations #BorderCollie #DogTraining #CollieCulture #GemmaFisher #DogBehaviour

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.