How to Train a Border Collie Puppy

By HeatherLV

Instructions

Step 1:
Establish a dominant relationship over your puppy. This may sound harsh, but border collie puppies are extremely intelligent and will quickly learn how to control their owners. Border collies are herding dogs and with that comes certain behaviors. If your dog thinks she is the alpha dog, these behaviors can become dangerous. For instance, these dogs have stalking and herding tendencies and will go after almost anything that moves, including bikes, other animals and even children. That is why it is important to be able to give your border collie puppy a command and have her obey it.
Step 2:
Purchase a dog crate. A dog crate is an ideal tool to potty train and to establish a safe haven for your puppy. Don't buy a crate that is too big---you want a crate that is just big enough for your border collie to stand up and turn around in. If the crate is too big, she won't mind relieving herself in it because she can simply move away. But if she has to lay in her urine or stool, she will quickly learn not to use the bathroom in the crate.

Additionally, many border collie puppies see their crates as dens. Many enjoy their time in the crates and will often go inside them voluntarily. If your puppy doesn't like her crate at first, try feeding her in it. This may help her to become comfortable with it and associate it with things she likes.
Step 3:
Socialize your border collie puppy. Let him interact with people, as well as other pets, as often as you can. However, it is important to keep your puppy away from other dogs until she has finished receiving her complete set of puppy shots. Socializing your border collie puppy will teach her how to behave appropriately with people and dogs. That is, you can teach her not to jump on other people and not to be aggressive toward other dogs.
Step 4:
Train your dog using the same commands and routines. Border collies, as well as other dogs, respond best to commands when they are taught in the same way every time. For instance, to get her to lay down, say the same word each time. If you want her to respond to the word "down," be consistent in using this word. Don't use an alternate word or she may get confused.

Tips & Warnings

Border collie puppies bore easily. Keep her occupied by going on walks, giving her "jobs" and letting her play with toys.
Border collie puppies can be high-maintenance. They must have the proper amount of exercise and stimulation or they may become unruly. If you have small children, this may not be the best breed to have because of their herding and nipping tendencies.

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