How to Work With Your Dog's Herding Instinct.

Many dogs have been selectively bred over the centuries for a purpose, until it is part of their nature. Herding dogs and stock dogs, from the little Pembroke Corgi to the regal German Shepherd, have inherent quirks that must be understood and managed when we have them as pets.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Different breeds of dogs use differing styles to herd flocks. Some bark and nip at the heels, like the aptly named Australian Heelers. Others use their bodies to block and control a herd by trotting alongside and forcing stragglers to stay with the herd. Others, like the Border Collie, crouch, dart and use eye contact to "muster" a scattered flock until they are all together and compliant. Barking is also common to many herding dogs. They bark to control the flock and also to warn away predators.

2. Some herding behaviors, like "heeling" and nipping, are unacceptable. Obviously you don't want your dog to be nipping at family members or guests! Everyone must be consistent in telling the dog NO BITE and refusing to reward this behavior. Make it very clear that nipping at people or their clothing is unacceptable, even in play. Instead, give the dog an acceptable outlet like teaching her to play fetch with you.

3. Body blocking and being physically pushy is more common with the larger herding breeds, like German Shepherds and Rottweilers. Sometimes leaning hard on a person or blocking their way is overly pushy behavior and should be discouraged. Your dog should tolerate being pushed out of the way. If he growls at this, consult a trainer.
   Teach the dog the trick of walking backwards to get him out of the way. This both establishes some control and gives him an alternate behavior.

4. If you have a Border Collie, you already know how intense this breed can be. They must have exercise and stimulation, and lots of it. Because of their intensity and high energy level, they are not always the best dog for a busy family with small children. Many BC's end up in rescue or at the shelter because they are "too much dog."
   Anything at all that wears a dog like this out--doggie day care, dog parks, bicycling, long hikes wearing a pack, playing fetch 20 hours a day and various dogs sports--is beneficial and practically mandatory. Very high energy, smart dogs can become unhappy, neurotic and prone to bad behavior if they don't have an outlet.

5. If you researched before you got a vocal dog, you know in advance that some dogs have a reputation for barking a lot. Collies and Shelties are notorious barkers and there is only so much that can be done to keep them quiet. It's simply their nature. If you teach a dog to bark on command, you can also teach her to stop barking. Let your dog woof a couple of times, then tell her thank you and distract her so she stops. Praise her for stopping.
   Again, plenty of exercise and stimulation will help a great deal. Some dogs bark when they are bored or understimulated. Remember: a tired dog is a good dog!

Tips & Warnings

• Most herding dogs are high energy, so they must be exercised and played with daily. A tired dog is a good dog and too much excess energy will make it harder for her to control her instincts.
• Herding breeds by nature also tend to be pushy and a bit dominant, so lay a solid foundation in basic training by going to obedience classes as well as being consistent with home training.
• Dogs like this also tend to be really smart and need to work. Consider agility, rally obedience or even herding classes for your herding dog.
• Check the link below for information on herding with your dog.
• Research breeds carefully before getting a dog. Since most herding breeds are bred to work and be very active, they may not be suitable for those who don't have the time and space for them.

Resources

• American Herding Breeds Association