Training the Border Collie Stockdog
What began as a passion for working ranch dogs has grown into a 35-year career grounded in one belief: a great dog has to be useful first. Holding to that, I've competed on some of the most respected trial fields in the country — Soldier Hollow, the Meeker Classic, and the Bluegrass, among them. Over the years I've had the opportunity to compete in both the sheepdog and cowdog worlds, and to share what I've learned with handlers and ranchers across the country and around the world. The dogs I've trained have gone on to win for people everywhere, and that continues to be the most rewarding part of this work.
Stock Dog Training Links
·
·
·
Stock Dog Training Links · · ·
.Joni & Kathy talk about training with feel, using the stock to teach, the direction of trialing, and so much more! Joni was incredibly open and authentic—you'll love this interview!
This interview covers sheepdog training, trialing, and how the trainer developed her understanding of timing, feel, and balance through experience and key dogs. It focuses on building confident dogs by allowing independence while maintaining softness, trust, and thoughtful handling.
Dog Training Online has featured Joni as one of their instructors, with a series of videos showcasing her training methods and philosophy. Whether you're starting a young dog or refining an experienced one, the content covers real-world techniques drawn from decades of ranch work and trial competition. Visit their website to explore the full video library and see her approach in action.
This platform is dedicated to working dogs and the people who rely on them. It brings together trainers and handlers from across the community to share knowledge, experience, and insight into all aspects of working dogs. The focus includes cattle and sheep ranch dogs, trial dogs, farm dogs, pups, and a wide range of training philosophies. The goal is simple: if it’s about working dogs, they aim to cover it and share it with others who care about the craft.
Some of my favorite articles…
Today's contribution is from Eric Wanman (Wanman Border Collies), in Buhl, ID.
Eric has been using and raising dogs for many years; his dogs Willie and King are considered by many people to be very influential sires in cattle working Border Collies.
Eric Wanman Talks About His Career as a Stockdog Breeder and Trainer
Brianna Henderson’s Stockdog Training Videos
A long-time friend, Brianna Henderson, has a very informative Patreon account with many great videos on training the stockdog. I highly recommend checking her out.
-
![]()
Siblings Hollis, Lilly, and Pirate
Holly X Edge
-
![]()
"Ash"
Sarah x Ruger
-
![]()
"Ruger"
Jim X Dot
