Training

All dogs need training to be acceptable in today’s society, and the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is certainly no exception to this rule. Their high intelligence, excellent memory and ability to think for themselves mean correct training and socialisation is an absolute must, as dogs of this calibre which are not trained, may become destructive, noisy, and channel their intelligence into all manner of bad behaviour.

Thankfully, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is relatively easy to train given the right encouragement (they love tit-bits when they do well!) and consistency, and there are many kinds of discipline they can learn.

Obedience is a must, and enrolling at a training course in your area is the best way for your puppy or dog to learn the basics. Such as walking on a lead without pulling, sitting, staying on command and coming when called.A Kennel Club accredited Training Club is the best way forward and going to www.thekennelclub.org.uk/training/dog-training-getting-started/ will give you more information on the benefits of a well trained dog.

Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme. This is the largest dog training programme in the UK, and you and your dog can progress from the Puppy Foundation Course, through to Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. www.thekennelclub.org.uk/training/good-citizen-dog-training-scheme/information-for-dog-owners/good-citizen-dog-scheme-training-clubs/ will help you to find one in your area.

Clicker Training is another way to train your dog. Carolyn Menteith KCAI, DipCABT, the very well known dog trainer and behaviour consultant and owner of the famous Polish Lowland Sheepdog ‘Digby’ uses this method to train. She has written an article about clicker training which you can find here.

Agility is a great way to build up a rapport with your dog, burn off excess energy and keep both of you fit. It involves directing your dog over an obstacle course at speed and is great fun for both dog & owner.You can find more information on Agility here www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities/agility/

Heelwork To Music is another way to enjoy quality time with your dog, and involves devising routines set to music that you perform with your dog. The ‘Freestyle Routines’ are only limited by your imagination (and your dogs ability & safety of course).You can find more information here www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities/heelwork-to-music/

There are other activities you can try too, such as

Flyball: www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities/flyball/ and

Rallying: www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities/rally/