Did obedience classes help your dog? because my family were a bit doubtful, because I wasn't sure whether obedience classes would just teach her to sit and lie and paw and stuff which she can already do? So anybody who went to obedience classes please tell me whether it helped?
A border collie *can* be wasted in an obedience class, but they will probably be a challenge for your dog, not because she doesn't know what they will teach, but because in a room with strange people it will be extremely difficult for her to focus and obey. I would definitely give it a try, and if you have the funds, take an agility class. Agility is a great mental and physical workout for a young BC, and it will build on the needing to obey and focus when exposed to strange people and dogs. A few important things:
DON'T try and reassure your dog when she first starts to be anxious . It sounds counterintuitive, but by trying to reassure her, you are actually reinforcing her fear.
DO express confidence, and a calm and cheerful demeanor.
DON'T offer treats to her when she is scared. It won't help. Oddly, this works wonders with my basset hound, but I've had bc my entire life, and it has not once worked on any of them.
DO keep a high value toy and in a really tight spot, oh-so-casually squeak it in your pocket or toss it down in front of the dog while you are walking. A lot if bcs are OCD about their toys, and can't
not pick it up.
Do not do this around other dogs or children as your dog may attack them.
DON'T allow your dog to slip her collar. End that
at once. Get a choke or prong collar, but make it something she can't slip.
DO learn how to properly fit and use these devices before putting them on your dog!
DON'T allow people to approach your dog without permission.
DO encourage other people to avoid eye contact, reaching over the head, or touching the sensitive ears.
