Advice needed

[wakers71]

I have a 6 yr old Border Collie. He was a rescue from Ireland and I have had him for the past 4 1/2 years. He has always been highly strug, but he managed to overcome his problems.

Unfortunately over the past couple of weeks he has regressed to old behaviours and some new ones. He is very skittish in the house and extremely needy. When out on a walk he will not repsond to recall and just goes on his own sweet way, only coming back when he is ready. He will chase a bird to a tree and gladly bark at it all day.

He has also now started to roll in fox poo, something which he would avoid previously. I feel like we have taken a huge step back and I don't know what to do at the moment.

Any advice that can be given would be greatly appreciated.

[nick_j007]

Mikki Recall Training Leads, available in 5 lengths (6ft, 10ft, 15ft, 20ft & 30ft) (link removed)

You need one of these long lines for a time until you have the control back. Combine its use with high value food to keep him rewarded for returns and following you.

What has made him regress like this? Any ideas?

Nick

[Pawsitive]

If he is skittish in the house i would up the training again (even just general obedience) - building up your bond with him and helping him feel confident.

I would try to work on the neediness straight away - ie practising leaving rooms for a few seconds, then gradually for longer periods.

Keep calm and leave without causing a fuss, then come straight back in without making a fuss. It shows him that you will be coming back.

Agree with nick about recall - i also find that squeaky toys, high pitched voices and lots of movement tend to grab a dog's attention!

I have an Irish rescue too. TBH i think some of them will always be anxious dogs (god only knows what they suffered before) but gentle handling and a lot of patience goes a long way.

Good luck!!