Border Collies are one of the most intelligent, trainable and energetic breeds of dog. They have a natural instinct to herd and can be trained to do a variety of herding commands. With the right guidance and training, your Border Collie can be a great herding partner. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common herding commands that you can teach your Border Collie and how to use them effectively.
Herding Commands for Border Collies
Table of Contents
Border collies are widely known for their herding abilities. They are used in a variety of herding activities, from sheep herding to herding dogs in agility competitions. But in order to effectively herd animals, Border collies need to understand and respond to certain commands. This article will provide an overview of the most common herding commands used with Border collies.
Come Bye
The “come bye” command is used to move the herd in the direction of the handler. It is usually used when the handler wants the herd to move clockwise around them. To give this command, the handler should use a raised arm and point in the direction they want the herd to go.
Away to Me
The “away to me” command is used to move the herd in the opposite direction of the handler. It is used when the handler wants the herd to move counterclockwise around them. To give this command, the handler should use a lowered arm and point in the direction they want the herd to go.
Lie Down
The “lie down” command is used to instruct the herd to stop moving. This command is usually used when the handler wants the herd to stay in one place for a period of time. To give this command, the handler should use a lowered arm and point to the ground.
Walk Up
The “walk up” command is used to instruct the herd to move forward. This command is usually used when the handler wants the herd to move to a certain location. To give this command, the handler should use a raised arm and point in the direction they want the herd to go.
Stand
The “stand” command is used to instruct the herd to stay still. This command is usually used when the handler wants the herd to remain in one place for a period of time. To give this command, the handler should use a raised arm and point to the ground.
Come By
The “come by” command is used to move the herd in the direction of the handler. It is usually used when the handler wants the herd to move in a specific direction around them. To give this command, the handler should use a raised arm and point in the direction they want the herd to go.
Go Back
The “go back” command is used to move the herd away from the handler. It is usually used when the handler wants the herd to move away from them in a certain direction. To give this command, the handler should use a lowered arm and point in the direction they want the herd to go.
Stop
The “stop” command is used to instruct the herd to stop moving. This command is usually used when the handler wants the herd to stay in one place for a period of time. To give this command, the handler should use a lowered arm and point to the ground.
Fetch
The “fetch” command is used to instruct the herd to move towards the handler. This command is usually used when the handler wants the herd to move towards them in a certain direction. To give this command, the handler should use a raised arm and point in the direction they want the herd to go.
Herding commands can be an effective way to control a herd of animals. Understanding and using these commands correctly will ensure that the Border collie is able to effectively herd the animals. With practice, Border collies can learn to respond quickly and accurately to these commands.
## Common Myths about Herding Commands for Border Collies
1. Myth: All Border Collies understand the same commands.
Fact: Each Border Collie may have different commands that they respond to. The commands used depend on the breed of the animal, the environment, and the individual preferences of the handler.
2. Myth: All herding commands for Border Collies must be given in a stern voice.
Fact: While a firm voice is important when giving commands, Border Collies respond best to positive reinforcement. A combination of firm commands and rewards is the best way to train a Border Collie.
3. Myth: Border Collies only obey commands when they are in a sheep pen.
Fact: Border Collies can be trained to obey commands in any environment. Training should be done in multiple environments to ensure the dog understands the commands regardless of the surroundings.
4. Myth: A Border Collie will only obey commands if it is wearing a special collar.
Fact: Collars are not necessary for a Border Collie to obey commands. The most important factor is the relationship between the handler and the dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What commands do Border Collies need to know?
Border Collies need to be trained to understand basic commands such as sit, stay, down, come, and heel. They also need to be trained in herding commands such as stop, wait, go around, and fetch.
Does a Border Collie need to be trained in herding?
Yes, Border Collies have a natural instinct for herding and need to be trained in herding commands to bring out the best in them. Training them in herding commands can help them focus and channel their energy in a productive way.
Conclusion
. Border collies are highly skilled herding dogs and require specific commands to herd animals. The most common commands used include: come bye, away to me, lie down, walk up, stand, come by, go back, stop, and fetch. Each command requires a different gesture from the handler, such as a raised arm to move the herd in the direction of the handler or a lowered arm to move them away. With practice, Border collies can learn to respond quickly and accurately to these commands.
