Border Collie

[Adam1981]

I got my first border collie 6 months ago. He is obviously very intelligent and learnt the basic commands such as sit, lie down, wait etc within a couple of weeks. He has always been very good at the recall.
3 or 4 weeks ago he stopped listening to the recall, especially after about 30 minutes of playing fetch when he knows the end of playtime is approaching. He now won't come within arms length of whoever is walking him to avoid being placed back on the lead. Treats won't encourage him to come.
His behavior at home has slipped a little as well. There are time when he will look at you when a command is given and then just walk away.
I have read that dogs will usually go into a challenging phase at about 6 months and wondered if anyone else had experienced similar behavior or had any advice?

 

[NeverSayNever]

you need to continue to reinforce the basics all the time - and ensure that he see's you as the boss. Make him work for his dinner, dont let him through doors infront of you - all that jazz.

as for the recall - practise with a 'tuggy' lead (can just be a leadrope - but something you are happy for him to tug). First motivate him at home with it and play tug with him, but dont ever just give it to him. IT belongs to you and he gets to play tug when you invite him. (thus building up the desire for it). Then start in the garden... have the tug lead handy can recal him. Quick tug game to reward, then put it in your pocket and send him away again. You get the idea? This then transfers to walks- recall him every 5 mins or so for a tug game NOT to be put on the lead. Then when you DO need to put him on the lead make sure you still give him a game and reward, pop the lead on and bobs yer uncle.

i do that with all mine from day one and to this day whenever im out for a walk they always have an eye on me for tugg-time hope this helps.