Books by Barbara Sykes

A practical guide to training your Border Collie. With step-by-step photography and training case studies throughout, it covers: breed variants and temperaments; diet, puppy training and bringing new dogs home; simple commands, boundaries and socialization; the 'Chill Mat' - a safe territory to keep your collie calm; and, lead and recall training.

This comprehensive, illustrated book gives essential advice on how to become the pack leader by understanding and interpreting the body language of man's best friend.

Esteemed Border Collie trainer, consultant and authority on the breed, Barbara Sykes, has lived with Border Collies all of her life and has spent the last fifty years training, trialling and rescuing hundreds of dogs. In her sixth book, she explores how Border Collies have been adopted into the family home and how to get the most from your pet dog, without diminishing the unique spirit that attracted you to the breed in the first place. Part One of the book takes you on a journey that began over 200 years ago at the birth of the breed up to the present day. Understanding the history of Border Collies, why they were bred and why they are so diverse, is the key to understanding and managing their instincts. Part Two then explores simple strategies and techniques to balance those instincts within a domestic setting, whilst still having fun with your dog and creating a strong partnership. Key coverage includes: the history of the breed; how coat and eye colour genes impact character; understanding and managing the inherent instincts; health and welfare; the rescue dog in your home; Border Collies and children; lead walking and recall and finally, trouble-shooting problems and setbacks. Although developed with Border Collies in mind, these techniques are applicable to any breed, making an owner¿s life easier and a dog¿s life happier.