Training your Nerunder Kelpie

   Work Training

There are plenty of people around who are better dog trainers than I claim to be. What they all have in common is that they are patient, methodical and very kind but firm with their dogs. The same as good parents are with their children in other words. It is worth noting that a top trainer is not necessarily a good breeder of working dogs (the opposite applies as well). If this is your first working dog and there is no experienced trainer around to help you don't despair. If the dog is well bred for the work you want it to do then it will do the job - providing you follow a few basic principles.

Just like kids, the younger the dog the more likely it is to get excited and make mistakes. Mental stability comes with experience and age (around three years old).

Always try and show the dog what you want instead of just telling it

Remember the dog is bred to bring the animals to you, not push them away from you (you can teach that later)

When things go wrong help the dog, don't blame it. Self confidence is the key.

Start initial training close to the dog and the animals (a small number and preferably used to being worked). Increase distance and numbers according to confidence and ability.

If the animals are stubborn always actively help the dog establish control. Remember you are a team.

Keep in in mind that the dog can read the where the animals want to go (much better than you ever will) and will try and position him/herself accordingly. Very tame sheep for example will just follow you as soon as they see the dog with the result that the dog will want to be in front of you trying to block them. Not a good training situation!

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Senast ändrad: 2010-08-19