Collie Conversations

Gemma Fisher
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Let’s chat Collies! Join me live for bite-sized solutions to reactivity, barking, jumping up, and more—your questions lead the way!If you're struggling with your Collie quirks, tune into Collie Conversations for live tips, advice, and answers to the groups most frequently asked questions.

  1. 11/30/2025

    Episode #32: Before Black Friday Offer Ends: Will Unleashed Help YOUR Collie?

    Does your Border Collie struggle with distractions, triggers, recall, or over-arousal? Are walks unpredictable, stressful, or controlled by whatever your Collie sees first - a car, football, livestock, jogger or distant dog? If you’ve been wondering whether training could finally feel easier, calmer, and more connected… this Collie Conversations episode is perfectly timed. Because the Black Friday offer for Unleashed - my step-by-step Border Collie training pathway - is open right now, and today’s session answers the exact questions owners have been asking before they join. I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and creator of Unleashed. In this episode we’re breaking down who the programme is for, what it helps with, how fast you can expect change, and whether it’s still a match for you if you’ve tried classes, games-based training or other trainers before and progress felt slow or inconsistent. Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s video: 00:00 - Black Friday Unleashed overview 01:15 - Is Unleashed suitable for young, new or rescue Collies? 03:10 - Will it help with specific triggers like cars, footballs & other dogs? 05:52 - How quickly most owners start seeing progress 07:25 - Why past training may not have worked (and why this is different) 10:02 - Can you still succeed with very little training time? 12:04 - Home behaviour vs outdoor behaviour - the link no one talks about 14:30 - Following the pathway step-by-step for real results Whether your Collie is reactive, excitable, struggles to switch off, or ignores food outdoors - the answer is rarely obedience, it’s nervous system regulation and thinking-in-arousal. That’s exactly what Unleashed teaches you layer by layer. The Black Friday deal gives you lifetime access, so you can train slowly, intentionally and successfully without rushing. You’ll leave this episode knowing whether Unleashed is the right next step for your Collie - and if joining before the Black Friday deal ends could mean calmer walks, better focus, and a Collie who can actually listen even when excited. 🔗 Watch now & decide confidently: Unleashed Black Friday Offer → https://signup.gemmafisher.com/ccu-se... Join the free Facebook group → https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC If this helped, hit subscri Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    12 min

  2. 11/14/2025

    Episode #31: Teaching Calm in a Chaotic World: 3 Real Collie Problems Solved

    Does your Collie struggle to stay calm when the world around them gets noisy, busy, or overwhelming? You’re definitely not alone. In this episode of Collie Conversations, we look at three real-life Collie problems submitted by owners just like you - and break down simple, practical steps to help your dog feel calmer, safer, and more in control. I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and your guide to understanding the “why” behind your Collie’s behaviour. In this 15-minute Q&A, we dive into three common challenges: Roadside stress, anxiety around children and baby noises, and a classic puppy conundrum - chewing up clumps of mud on long-line adventures. Each one might look different on the surface, but they all connect to the same thing: how your Collie processes the world. Here’s what we’ll cover in today’s episode: 00:00 – Intro: Teaching Calm in a Chaotic World 00:46 – Why roadside walks are so overwhelming for many Collies 03:25 – Counterconditioning vs. desensitisation (and where most owners go wrong) 08:56 – Why baby and child noises trigger strong reactions 12:00 – The mud-chewing puppy stage: harmless curiosity or red flag? 14:20 – Final thoughts & how to submit your own question In this conversation, you’ll learn: 🌱 How to reduce roadside stress using controlled-distance setups that help your Collie actually learn, not panic 🎧 Why desensitising with home sound recordings often fails—and what does make a difference 🧠 The emotional and sensory reasons children overwhelm many Collies 🐾 Why puppies explore the world with their mouths, and how to prevent obsession without making the problem worse 💡 How to recognise when your Collie’s system is “running hot” and what you can do to cool everything down If you’re a Collie owner who wants calmer walks, fewer meltdowns, and a deeper understanding of your dog’s behaviour, this episode will give you clear next steps you can use straight away. 👉 Join our free Facebook group for weekly Q&As, training tips, and personalised advice: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC 👉 Subscribe for upcoming episodes - we could cover your question next week! Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    17 min

  3. 11/07/2025

    Episode #30: The Dot-to-Dot Method for Understanding Your Collie’s Behaviour

    Does your Collie ever bark at you for treats, struggle when you stop to chat to someone on a walk, or get confused between “loose lead walking time” and “exploring the world time”? You’re not alone! Many Border Collies show behaviours that seem puzzling on the surface - until you understand how they connect the dots. In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re exploring what I call The Dot-to-Dot Method for understanding Collie behaviour. Once you start seeing your dog’s choices as part of a predictable chain - little dots they’re joining up - it becomes so much easier to help them, teach them, and support them out in the real world. I'm Gemma Fisher, your guide to understanding Border Collies and helping you create calmer, more connected walks and happier days together. In today’s conversation, I’ll break down real questions from Collie owners and show you how to interpret the patterns behind your dog’s behaviour - whether you’re raising a young puppy or navigating adolescence with an energetic Collie. Here’s a quick look at what we’ll cover in this episode: 00:00 Intro - What the Dot-to-Dot Method is 01:14 Puppy priorities: loose lead walking vs exploring the world 03:27 Why lead attachments signal expectations to your Collie 06:29 How young Collies “join the dots” and predict your behaviour 07:58 The barking-for-treats problem: why it happens 10:00 Teaching a calm, reliable settle while you talk to someone 11:26 Why tiny treats and sniffing help reduce arousal 12:24 Changing habits: how Collies learn what “works” 15:06 Using incompatible behaviours to shift unwanted habits 16:16 Final thoughts + free upcoming webinar In this episode, you'll discover: • Why your Collie anticipates your behaviour so quickly • How to prevent demand barking without battles • How to use the settle to avoid overstimulation in everyday moments • Why understanding the why behind behaviour changes everything Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC ), where you’ll find weekly Q&A threads, personalised advice, and a warm community of Collie owners just like you. And make sure to subscribe for upcoming episodes covering reactivity, recall, over-arousal, and more. 🔔 Resources Mentioned in the Video: • Free Q&A inside the Facebook group • Upcoming webinar: “Understanding Your Border Collie” Thanks for watching Collie Conversations, and remember - progress, not perfection! -- Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher helps Collie owners build reliable recall, calmer walks, and joyful partnerships using positive, science-based methods. Her Collie Conversations podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner. Join the Facebook community for more tips and support: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC #CollieConversations #BorderCollieTraining #DogBehaviour #GemmaFisher #CollieCulture Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    18 min

  4. 09/17/2025

    Episode #29: Why Your Collie Reacts Differently to Some Dogs on Walks

    Ever wondered why your Border Collie greets one dog politely but snaps, stares, or lunges at another? You’re not alone! In this episode of Collie Conversations, we dig into why Collies react so differently to certain dogs on walks - and how you can use that knowledge to make outings calmer and more enjoyable. I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist, and in this episode I’ll walk you through two real-life cases from our community: Sadie - a Collie who guards toys, sticks, pinecones (and even her people!) around other dogs. Debbie’s Collie - struggling with car and bike chasing, and reactivity to other Border Collies when too close. Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s conversation: 00:00 Intro – Collie reactions explained 01:04 Resource guarding: toys, people & why it happens 03:20 The “Collie rulebook” and the famous hard stare 05:00 How a trigger stacking diary reveals hidden behaviour patterns 07:00 Why calm dogs feel safe but goofy, bouncy ones don’t 09:15 Teaching a retrieve to reduce guarding situations 10:30 Stepping in early to protect your Collie’s confidence 11:30 Car & bike chasing: using the Traffic Tracker to spot triggers 13:00 Training levels explained - from Reception Class to PhD 14:30 How to bridge the gap between “calm at home” and “chaos outside” In this episode, you’ll discover: Why Collies may guard objects or people, and how to prevent it. How a trigger stacking diary helps you spot patterns others miss. Why Border Collies react more strongly to high-energy dogs. First steps to manage car and bike chasing safely. How to build training gradually, instead of overwhelming your Collie. If you’ve been struggling with unpredictable reactivity, resource guarding, or car chasing, this episode will give you clear, practical starting points you can use straight away. 👉 Join our free Facebook group for weekly tips & Q&As: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC 👉 Watch the full episode here:    • Video  🔔 Subscribe for upcoming episodes—next week, we’ll dive into more common Collie challenges with step-by-step solutions. Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has helped thousands of owners turn stressful walks into joyful ones. Through positive training, clear communication, and practical tools, she’ll help you u Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    16 min

  5. 09/11/2025

    Episode #28: Collie Reactivity 101: Cars, Shadows, and Underlying Causes

    Does your Collie lunge at passing cars, chase shadows, or seem on constant alert during walks? You’re not alone. Car chasing and repetitive behaviours like shadow chasing are two of the most common (and stressful!) challenges Collie owners face. In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’ll unpack why these behaviours happen, and - most importantly - what you can do to help your dog feel calmer and more in control. I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and behaviour coach, here to guide you through the world of Collie reactivity. With years of experience working with hundreds of Collies and their owners, I’ve seen first-hand how overwhelming these behaviours can be - but also how much progress is possible with the right plan. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: 00:00 Intro - Why Collies struggle with traffic and movement 02:14 Understanding why single-track lanes are a “PhD-level” challenge for dogs 05:12 Loose lead walking: why stride awareness is key to traffic confidence 08:30 Training setups in safer spaces like supermarket car parks 10:00 Shadow chasing: what it means and why underlying pain or gut issues may play a role 13:20 The “traffic light touch” system for spotting discomfort in your dog 15:00 Next steps & resources to start helping your Collie today You’ll also discover why some environments feel easier than others for your Collie, and how to create a “ladder” of training environments - from simple to advanced - so your dog can build confidence step by step. In this video, we’ll cover: Why Collies are more likely to struggle with traffic than other breeds The role of physical health and pain in repetitive behaviours like shadow chasing How to set up safe, effective practice sessions around cars Simple tools to track your dog’s progress and spot stress signals early 👉 Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group for more resources, including my Car Chasing Ebook and Traffic Tracker Tool: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC Subscribe for upcoming Collie Conversations episodes, where we’ll dive into other reactivity challenges like barking, over-arousal, and reactivity to other dogs. -- Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher helps owners transform worry into confidence with practical, positive training methods. Through Collie Conversations, Gemma shares real-life solutions for recall, reactivity, and all the quirks that make Collies both brilliant and challenging. #CollieConversations #BorderCollieTraining #DogBehaviour #CollieReactivity #GemmaFisher Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    17 min

  6. 08/13/2025

    Episode #27: Barking, Visitors & Vacuums: Real Collie Q&A Solutions

    Does your Border Collie bark at the doorbell, rush at visitors, or go wild every time you pick up the vacuum? You’re not alone!  In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re tackling real owner questions about barking, guest manners, noisy household tools, and even fear of busy roads - so you can swap frustration for calm, confident behaviour. I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and founder of Collie Culture. Each week, I answer your questions live from our Facebook community, sharing practical, positive solutions that work in the real world. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why barking happens - and how to work out if it’s excitement, worry, or a mix of both. How to change your Collie’s emotional response to the sounds that set them off, from the click of a gate to the ring of a doorbell. Why noticing what your dog notices can reduce repetitive barking. Meet & Greet protocols to help your Collie greet politely - especially useful if you’ve got guests who aren’t dog people. How to use background noise, settle training, and permissions to make visitor arrivals calmer. Vacuum, broom, or rake mayhem? Discover why young Collies find these movements irresistible (or even worrying) and how to break the habit without endless “no!” commands. The importance of age and self-control development - why four-month-old puppies need a different approach than adults. How to break big triggers into tiny, achievable training steps for lasting results. Lead reactivity & traffic fears: why a “watch me” cue isn’t always the answer, and how to build confidence around people and moving vehicles without forcing interactions. The “Treat & Retreat” protocol for nervous or reactive dogs, so they feel safe and in control while meeting strangers. Whether your Collie is an excitable adolescent, a nervous rescue, or somewhere in between, you’ll find reassurance and step-by-step strategies to help them cope better with life’s everyday challenges - at home, in the garden, and out on walks. 👉 Got a Collie question? Join our free Facebook group to submit yours, connect with other Collie owners, and access extra resources: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC Don’t forget to subscribe for new Collie Conversations every week - packed with practical tips, relatable stories, and encouragement to help you and your dog thrive. Thanks for watching! Remember: progress, not perfection - every calm moment is a win. #CollieConversations #BorderCollie #DogTraining #CollieCulture #GemmaFisher #DogBehaviour Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    19 min

  7. 07/25/2025

    Episode #26: Agility, Anxiety & Afternoon Zoomies: Collie Q&A

    Ever wondered why your Border Collie suddenly zooms around the garden, digs up half the lawn, or acts completely different at agility class? Or maybe you’re struggling with visitor nerves, stressy greetings, or the classic keep-away game? You’re in the right place! Welcome to Collie Conversations, where we dive into the real questions Collie owners face every week - live and unscripted. I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and founder of Collie Culture. In this week’s episode, I’m answering fresh questions from our Facebook community about some of the trickiest Collie challenges - like anxiety in group classes, settling around visitors, and those energetic outbursts we all know too well. Here’s what you’ll find in this episode: Digging, Grass Eating & Garden Drama: Why is your Collie attacking the grass or digging frantically every time you go outside? We’ll look at possible gut or digestive reasons, as well as stress-related habits and what you can do to help.Visitor Nerves & Barky Greetings: Does your Collie rush at guests, bark, or act unsure - even with people they know? I’ll break down why this happens, the importance of patterns and “meet and greet” protocols, and how to build safer, calmer social experiences for everyone.Agility Class Anxiety: Is your Collie more stressed than excited in group agility? We discuss why beginner classes can be overwhelming, life skills to practice before you go, and how to create positive experiences - plus tips for bringing the fun home to your garden!The Dreaded Keep-Away Game: If your Collie has learned to dodge you whenever you reach for their collar, you’re not alone. Discover how to flip the script and make collar grabs something your dog actually looks forward to with simple daily habits.Summer Heat Tips: Struggling to wear your Collie out when it’s too hot to walk? Try “free work” and Tellington TTouch-inspired activities to burn energy and keep your dog cool and content.Whether you’ve got a sensitive adolescent, an agility hopeful, or a classic Collie mischief-maker, you’ll find encouragement and practical advice for making real progress - no perfection required. 👉 Got a burning Collie question? Join our free Facebook group to submit yours and connect with a community that truly gets it: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC Don’t forget to subscribe for new Collie Conversations every week. Thanks for tuning in - every calm moment is a win! #CollieConversations #BorderCollie #DogTraining #CollieCulture #GemmaFisher #DogBehaviour Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    19 min

  8. 07/18/2025

    Episode #25: My Collie Won’t Calm Down! Practical Q&A for Real Owners

    Is your Border Collie bouncing off the walls when visitors arrive, struggling to settle around children, or just can’t seem to relax - no matter what you try? You’re definitely not alone! Welcome to Collie Conversations, the place where we answer real Collie owner questions, live and unscripted. I’m Gemma Fisher, Border Collie specialist and founder of Collie Culture. In this week’s episode, I tackle questions straight from our Facebook community about Collies who are overexcitable, unsettled, or struggling with big feelings - especially when kids or new people are involved. Here’s what you’ll find in today’s Collie Conversation: Why some young Collies go from 0 to 100 when they hear excited voices - especially from children or certain visitors What to do when your Collie jumps up, zooms around, or can’t settle in busy family situations How reinforcement (praise, treats, even eye contact!) might be accidentally making things worse—and how to use it the right way Real, practical tips for teaching your Collie to settle calmly on a mat, even around high-energy family members The importance of starting with easy (low-distraction) “reception class” tasks before expecting your Collie to succeed in the most challenging “PhD level” moments Advice on helping nervous or reactive Collies feel safe and comfortable around children - without relying on toys or just managing by distraction When and why muzzle training might be necessary for safety, and how to create positive associations so your dog doesn’t become more stressed How to use counter-conditioning to change your Collie’s feelings about children or visitors, turning worry into calm confidence Why patience, clear communication, and celebrating little wins really do make a difference Whether you’re struggling with an excitable adolescent, a noise-sensitive rescue, or simply want a calmer household, you’ll find honest, expert guidance and encouragement here. 👉 Have a question for next week’s Collie Conversation? Join our free Facebook group to submit yours, connect with supportive Collie owners, and get access to free resources: https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC Don’t forget to subscribe for more practical advice and uplifting stories from Collie owners just like you. Thanks for watching! Remember - progress, not perfection. Every calm moment is a win. #CollieConversations #BorderCollie #DogTraining #CollieCulture #GemmaFisher #DogBehaviour Border Collie expert Gemma Fisher has dedicated her career to empowering collie owners with the skills they need for a reliable recall and a joyful partnership with their dogs. Gemma’s hands-on experience and commitment to positive methods shine in each Collie Conversation. Her podcast brings practical, inspiring advice for every Collie owner, from recall training to managing reactivity. Join her Facebook group (https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for even more tips and community support.

    17 min
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About

Let’s chat Collies! Join me live for bite-sized solutions to reactivity, barking, jumping up, and more—your questions lead the way!If you're struggling with your Collie quirks, tune into Collie Conversations for live tips, advice, and answers to the groups most frequently asked questions.

Information

  • Creator
    Gemma Fisher
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Collie Conversations
  • Show Website
    Collie Conversations