Stop Your Border Collie From
Nipping
Nipping is very common with Border Collies,especially when they are playing.This is their herding instinct
kicking in.Biting and nipping is part of what makes them so good at what they do.Many Borders are given away,left
at shelters or simply thrown away.This is because owners have mistakenly believed that the biting is an aggressive
action towards someone,usually a child.
Many families figure this out rather quickly the first time it happens.Your children are outside playing with
their new Border pup when all of a sudden the pup crouches down and goes after someones heels.For a small child
this can be devastating.Their cute little puppy is now a mean viscious beast.The truth is that your Border Collie
is simply responding to his natural instincts.
This could be easily avoided if two things happened.
First is to understand the nature of the dog that you are going to get.Borders and other working dogs are not the
best to mix with small children or other small pets.Their herding instincts can be a problem.
The second is to realize this and to make adjustments.Pay more attention to the situation.If the kids are out
playing,be out there with them.Catching the dog in the act of nipping and correcting his behaviour at that time is
the best way to teach him his limits.
Do not physically punish Your Border Collie.They don't respond well.Remember,herding comes naturally to
him,after all he is a "working dog".Just give him a firm command of"NO" when he chases after someone.
Including the entire family into the training process also helps.When your dog attempts to herd the
children,encourage them to give the pup the "NO" command.This should reinforce in his mind who and what he can
herd.There is no way to prevent your dog from following his instincts but with time,training,patience and
understanding,you can end up with a well mannered loving pet that all of the family can enjoy.
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