Top 10 Tricks You Didn’t Know Your Border Collie Could Master

Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence and work ethic, making them one of the most trainable dog breeds. Their natural herding instincts and problem-solving abilities make them ideal candidates for learning a wide array of tricks. This article will explore ten unique tricks that your Border Collie can master, providing detailed descriptions, real-life examples, and training tips to help you and your furry friend succeed.

1. Advanced Fetching Techniques

Fetching is a classic dog trick, but Border Collies can take it to the next level. They can learn to fetch specific items based on verbal commands or hand signals. For example, if you have multiple balls, your Border Collie can fetch the red ball when asked to do so. Training this trick involves using positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to encourage your dog to associate the command with the correct action.

Real-life example: Sarah’s Border Collie, Max, not only fetches the ball but also retrieves the tennis racket when she asks him to, making their backyard games even more enjoyable.

Benefits: This trick enhances communication between you and your dog, improving obedience and strengthening your bond.

2. High Five and Shake Hands

Teaching your Border Collie to high five or shake hands is a fun way to engage with them. Start by getting your dog’s paw and gently pressing it against your hand while saying “high five” or “shake.” Reward your dog with a treat immediately after they touch your hand. Practice this consistently until your dog understands the command without needing physical guidance.

Real-life example: John’s Border Collie, Bella, now greets visitors with a cheerful high-five, making his house parties more interactive and entertaining.

Benefits: These tricks improve social skills and make interactions with people more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

3. Sit Pretty

The sit pretty trick involves teaching your Border Collie to sit up on its hind legs with its front paws raised. Begin by rewarding your dog for sitting up slightly, then gradually increase the height by encouraging them to raise their front paws higher. Use treats and praise to reinforce the desired behavior.

Real-life example: Lisa’s Border Collie, Charlie, performs sit pretty during family gatherings, captivating everyone with his adorable antics.

Benefits: This trick showcases your dog’s agility and can be used to entertain guests or participate in dog shows.

4. Roll Over

Teaching your Border Collie to roll over requires patience and consistency. Start by having your dog lie down, then place a treat near their nose and slowly move it towards their shoulder. As your dog follows the treat, they will naturally roll onto their side. Once they are on their side, continue moving the treat along their body until they are fully rolled over. Reward them at each step and eventually, reward them for completing the full roll.

Real-life example: Mike’s Border Collie, Daisy, mastered the roll over trick within a week and now performs it regularly for family entertainment.

Benefits: This trick demonstrates your dog’s flexibility and can be a fun addition to your repertoire of party tricks.

5. Play Dead

The play dead trick is a humorous yet impressive skill for your Border Collie to learn. Start by teaching your dog to lie down on command, then add the “play dead” command. Encourage your dog to stay in the lying position for a few seconds before rewarding them. Gradually increase the duration and add props like a stuffed animal to simulate the “dead” effect.

Real-life example: Emily’s Border Collie, Rusty, has become the star of family videos with his impeccable play dead performance, often requested at birthday parties.

Benefits: This trick adds a comedic element to your interactions and can be a hit at social gatherings.

6. Jump Through Hoops

Training your Border Collie to jump through hoops can be an exciting challenge. Start with a small hoop placed close to the ground and gradually increase the size and height. Use treats to lure your dog through the hoop, praising them immediately upon completion. As your dog becomes comfortable with the trick, you can introduce commands like “jump” or “hoop.”

Real-life example: Tom’s Border Collie, Finn, has learned to jump through hoops of various sizes, impressing neighbors and friends alike.

Benefits: This trick highlights your dog’s athleticism and can be a great way to incorporate physical activity into your routine.

7. Spin Around

The spin around trick involves teaching your Border Collie to turn in circles on command. Start by holding a treat near your dog’s nose and slowly move it in a circular motion, prompting your dog to follow. As they complete the circle, say “spin” and reward them. Repeat this process several times a day until your dog associates the command with the action.

Real-life example: Susan’s Border Collie, Luna, has perfected the spin around trick and now performs it spontaneously during walks, adding a playful twist to their daily routine.

Benefits: This trick adds a playful dynamic to your interactions and can be a fun way to exercise your dog’s mind and body.

8. Speak On Command

Some Border Collies naturally bark more than others, but you can teach them to bark on command. Start by saying “speak” and wait for your dog to bark naturally. As soon as they do, reward them with a treat and praise. Repeat this process several times until your dog learns to associate the word “speak” with barking. Gradually reduce the frequency of treats as your dog masters the command.

Real-life example: Karen’s Border Collie, Toby, now barks on command during training sessions, making it easier to manage his vocal expressions.

Benefits: This trick can be useful for communication and can be a fun way to engage with your dog.

9. Retrieve Items from Hard-to-Reach Places

Border Collies excel at retrieving items from hard-to-reach places, thanks to their intelligence and agility. Teach your dog to retrieve items from under furniture or behind doors by using treats and toys as motivation. Initially, guide your dog to the item, then gradually encourage them to find it independently.

Real-life example: David’s Border Collie, Rocky, has been trained to retrieve his slippers from under the couch, saving David time and effort.

Benefits: This trick can be practical for everyday tasks and showcases your dog’s problem-solving abilities.

10. Dance

Teaching your Border Collie to dance can be a fun and creative way to bond with your pet. Start by teaching your dog to stand on their hind legs, then add small steps or spins. Use treats and praise to encourage your dog to follow your lead. With consistent practice, your Border Collie can perform a simple dance routine.

Real-life example: Linda’s Border Collie, Molly, has learned to dance to music, becoming a favorite feature at family gatherings.

Benefits: Dancing is a playful and engaging activity that can enhance coordination and provide mental stimulation for your dog.

Strengthening the Bond Between Owner and Pet

Mastering these tricks not only showcases your Border Collie’s intelligence and trainability but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Each training session provides an opportunity for positive interaction and mutual understanding. The sense of accomplishment your dog feels when mastering a new trick can lead to increased confidence and trust in their relationship with you. Additionally, the tricks mentioned above offer various ways to keep your Border Collie mentally stimulated and physically active, contributing to their overall well-being.