Reprinted from the NorCal Collie Newsletter, Fall 2006: http://www.calcollierescue.org/newsletter.htm

   Adopters of rescue dogs are angels, no doubt about it.  Dogs that come into rescue, and our collies are no different, are needy in one respect or other, and in that sense, they are less than perfect (although we've had some perfect ones too).  Rehabilitating a rescue dog requires time and patience, and it takes a special person to give a rescue dog a second chance.   We at NorCal Collie Rescue cannot thank our adopters enough. 

Collies that come into rescue are at the very least disoriented and lacking of a solid foundation of security and love.  Just loving them to make up for that, however, is usually not enough.  Insecure dogs need structure as well as love, and patient understanding. They also need unconditional love, which is difficult to give.  After all, most of us turn to dogs to get unconditional love because people aren't very good at it.

How can you best help your new collie integrate into your home?  First of all, we recommend adopting the kinder, gentler brand of dog training that is has taken over from the old-fashioned punitive, "show 'em who's boss" kind of dog training.  This new kind of dog training is based upon solid scientific principles of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement. The last thing a frightened or insecure dog needs is for the new owner to scold her for "going" in the house, or kneeing him to prevent him for jumping up.  What your new collie needs is the benevolent guidance of a loving parent. You would show your new dog what you WANT her to do, not what you do NOT want her to do.

 A new dog needs a secure space to call her own.  We highly recommend crate training (please ask us how), but if you or your new dog are not comfortable with crates, at the very least provide your dog with a secure place where your dog will stay when you are not at home. Giving your new collie total freedom in the house at first is not a good idea, especially if you are not home.   You can feed your collie in this secure place, for example, so that he associates this place with good things.

Where your dog sleeps is very important.  Ideally, your new collie can sleep in the same room as you do, in his own bed or better yet crate.  Confining your dog to a crate or room at night will prevent your new dog from pacing around at night.  Sharing the "den" to sleep with the pack leaders will make a new dog feel secure and part of the family.  Allowing your new dog to sleep on your bed with you may or may not be a good idea. It all depends on the dog and his or her personality.   Be aware that sleeping on your bed gives your dog extra status, and she or he may not use that special position in the pack wisely. 

You can help your new dog bond to you and family members by reserving at least half of your collie's daily ration of food.  Don't waste its value by giving it to your dog in a bowl all at once.  Divvy this food up among family members.  Whenever your new collie checks in with you, say his name and give him some kibble.  Handfeeding for the first week or two can "fast-forward" your bonding with your new collie.

Make sure your new collie knows how to get outside to "go." Always escort him outside right after he eats.  Eventually he'll learn the routine and when he is able to go outside to "go."  Be aware that not all dogs are able to tell you that they need outside.  You'll have to make sure that there is easy access to outside at least 4 times a day.

A daily walk once or twice a day will not only enrich your new dog's life but also exercise him (which he needs) and regulate his potty habits. Most dogs prefer to "go" as far from the living quarters as possible.  We find that collies are so naturally clean and fastidious that they are immediately housebroken, if only they know how to get outside to their potty place.

Insecure dogs however might be inclined to "mark" in the house.  This should go away after the first few days.  If ever you find your dog has relieved himself in the house, there is no use to punish him for this.  He cannot possibly associate the punishment with his act, which is long over, and he can only learn to fear and distrust you.  If you catch him in the act, calmly interrupt and escort him outside.

To be continued:  Adjusting your new collie to a multiple dog household.