Finished up Teach Your Herding Breed To Be A Great Companion Dog – From Obsessive To Outstanding by Dawn Antoniak-Mitchell. We love our new family member Bogie, but training has been a bit challenging. This book was recommended by a couple of people. It focuses on explaining the unique instincts and behaviors of herding dogs and how to channel them in a positive way.
The book begins with an introduction to herding breeds, including their history, physical characteristics, and temperaments. Antoniak-Mitchell then goes on to discuss the importance of early socialization and training for herding dogs. She emphasizes the need to provide these dogs with plenty of mental and physical stimulation. She outlines how to teach them obedience commands that will help them control their herding instincts in everyday situations.
Going to try to add some of her suggestions to our training. Wish us luck!
Teach Your Herding Breed To Be A Great Companion Dog – From Obsessive To Outstanding
Dawn Antoniak-Mitchell
Herding breed dogs such as Border Collies, Corgis, and Australian Shepherds have incredibly strong instinctive behaviors to do the work they were bred for—controlling various kinds of livestock.
These behaviors manifest themselves in modern herding breed dogs kept as companions or family pets in a number of ways. These include chasing cars and bicyclists, herding kids, nipping at vulnerable heels, barking incessantly, and acting as the “fun police” in dog parks. All behaviors that are entirely appropriate and necessary when dealing with sheep or cattle, not so great in a suburban neighborhood.
Fortunately, these instincts can be redirected in a number of ways that keep these energetic dogs busy and happy as well as out of trouble. That is why so many of these dogs can be taught to excel in agility and obedience trials, love to retrieve, and make great running companions. In her latest book, author Dawn Antoniak-Mitchell offers solutions to solving and preventing problem behaviors associated with herding breeds living in the modern world. And no, even though your Border Collie or Corgi might love it, you don’t need to buy a farm!
Released June 15, 2015
182 pages