With their piercing gaze, sharp intelligence, and unshakable work ethic, Border Collies are the brainiacs of the canine world. Originally bred for herding sheep across the rugged terrains of the UK, these agile dynamos are always switched on — seeking purpose, play, and praise in equal measure. 

Border Collies aren't just smart — they're problem-solvers, often thinking two steps ahead of their humans. But with great brainpower comes the need for thoughtful training. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, their brilliance can turn to boredom (and sometimes, mayhem). In this guide, we’ll break down how to train your Border Collie, from navigating their unique temperament and health needs to maximising their learning with real food and effective training strategies. 

Border Collie temperament and trainability 

Driven, alert, and intensely focused, Border Collies are one of the most trainable breeds — but they’re not for the faint-hearted. Their intelligence means they learn quickly, but they can also pick up bad habits just as fast. Without clear guidance and structure, they may invent their own "jobs," like herding children or chasing cars. 

These dogs crave purpose and consistency. They respond best to positive reinforcement and thrive in environments where their minds are challenged. However, their sensitivity means they can become overwhelmed by harsh corrections or chaotic settings. 

The key to success is balance: structured routines, plenty of positive interaction, and enrichment that stretches their mental muscles. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

While Border Collies are generally robust, a few health conditions can impact their focus and training ability: 

Joint conditions: Joint issues, including hip dysplasia, can impact a Border Collie’s mobility and willingness to participate in physical activities. Providing a complete and balanced diet with high-quality protein and rich in omega fatty acids as well as maintaining an appropriate exercise routine can support joint health. 

Sensitive stomachs: Diarrhoea, constipation or gassiness can all impact appetite and energy, which are crucial for effective training. 

If your Border Collie seems unusually distracted, reactive, or unmotivated, it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out any underlying health issues. 

Read more: Understanding your Border Collie's health issues: how real food can help 

How real food fuels your Border Collie’s focus 

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced, and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information. 

Border Collies benefit from: 

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, which release energy slowly. 

• Essential fatty acids (DHA and EPA) from fish or mussels to support brain development and memory. 

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients like blueberries and shiitake mushrooms for immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing. 

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.” 
– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)  

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience.

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to support learning, growth, and everyday health. 

Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training

Exercise first for improved focus 

For Border Collies, exercise isn’t optional — it’s essential. Without a proper outlet for their energy, training sessions can quickly derail into frustration or hyperactivity. 

Before training, aim for: 

• A brisk walk or jog 

• A game of fetch or frisbee 

• Mental exercises like puzzle toys or scent games 

Exercising beforehand helps your Border Collie release pent-up energy, making them more receptive to learning and less likely to act out due to boredom or restlessness. 

Training tips for Border Collies 

Training a Border Collie is a masterclass in consistency and creativity — but when you harness their drive and intelligence, the results are spectacular. 

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best: 

Positive reinforcement 

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship. 
 
Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Border Collie, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat. 

Find their favourite motivator 

Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Border Collie motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you?

Train at the right time 

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered. 

Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue. 

Stay consistent

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues. 

Be playful and engaging 

Dogs are sensitive souls that can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious. 

Watch their body language 

If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another point. 

Training your border collie puppy 

Border Collie puppies are bundles of boundless energy and razor-sharp curiosity. Early training is key to channelling their natural instincts and developing a confident, calm companion. 

Focus on: 

• A regular toilet routine. 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime. 

• Early, controlled socialisation with people, dogs, and new environments. 

Border Collies are sensitive to harsh corrections and respond far better to gentle, consistent guidance. 

Read more: Force-free puppy training: what the experts want you to know

Training your adult Border Collie 

Just because your Border Collie’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced. 

Try: 

• Reinforcing polite greetings 

• Teaching new tricks or games 

• Training for transitions (like moving house) 

• Helping with senior support (like using ramps) 

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change making them lifelong learners. Keep sessions fun, and celebrate progress — no matter how small. 

Read more: Training adult dogs: expert tips to boost learning, brain health & bonding

Real-life insight from Lyka pup parents 

Training Border Collies can be as much fun as it is challenging! For real insight into the world of parenting Border Collies, hear from Steph about her experiences with Arnie. 

"Thanks to Lyka’s treats (he LOVES all of them) I was able to teach my Border Collie, Arnie, to ‘leave’ the ball on cue. He will happily leave his ball for his favourite treats! Our training sessions are now fun and effective without needing to use the ball to keep him motivated!"

– Steph and Arnie (he's on Lyka)

When to call in a trainer or behaviourist 

Not sure if your Border Collie’s quirks are just energy or something deeper? 

• A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like: 

• Reactivity. 

• Anxiety or phobias. 

• Aggression. 

• Resource guarding. 

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change. 

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.”  

- Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist 

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together 

Training your Border Collie is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re managing puppy energy or supporting your senior’s learning, every small win builds a calmer, more connected life. 

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Border Collie’s learning with fresh, real food helps unlock their full potential. 

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Border Collies across Australia — from energetic pups to wise seniors — all thriving on fresh, brain-boosting meals.