Episode #13: Location, Location, Location: Creating a Safer World for Your Border Collie

Does your Collie struggle to feel safe in different environments? Do they freeze, panic, or react to every little change—whether at home, on walks, or in new places?In this episode of Collie Conversations, we’re diving into how location, environment, and routine impact your Border Collie’s sense of security—and what you can do to help them feel calmer and more confident.I'm Gemma Fisher, Border Collie training & behaviour specialist, and I’ve worked with hundreds of owners just like you who want their Collies to enjoy life without constant stress or over-alertness. Whether your Collie is struggling with sound sensitivity, busy environments, or general anxiety in new places, this episode will give you practical strategies to make a difference.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🔹 Why Border Collies are naturally more alert—and how their environment affects them🔹 The connection between location and behaviour—why your dog may act differently at home vs. outside🔹 How to create a "safe zone" where your Collie can truly relax🔹 Signs that your dog is struggling with their environment—and when to step in🔹 Simple changes that can make a huge impact—from managing sensory input to building confidence in new placesEpisode Breakdown:00:00 Intro – Why location matters for your Collie02:15 How the environment affects your Collie’s stress levels05:48 Recognising signs of discomfort in different locations08:30 Practical steps to help your Collie feel safer at home12:20 How to support your Collie on walks & in new environments16:05 The power of routine & familiar places in building confidenceIf your Collie struggles with certain places, this episode will help you create an environment where they feel secure—without avoiding everything that makes them nervous.Join our free Collie Culture Facebook group (👉 https://bit.ly/3Mn3GtC) for more training tips, expert advice, and a community of owners who truly understand life with a Border Collie!📌 Make sure to subscribe for more episodes on recall, reactivity, and confidence-building strategies.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.