Border Collie obsessive behaviors — when is it drive vs. when is it a problem
Getting a lot of messages lately about this so I'll address it here. Nova is 3, fully trained, and like most Border Collies has an intense fixation drive — she'll lock onto a ball, a shadow, a reflection, and not let it go. The question I get most: how do you tell normal breed-typical focus from something that's tipping into compulsive behavior? My rule: if redirection works easily and she disengages within a few seconds of a cue, it's drive. If she can't disengage even with a strong, well-trained cue, or the fixation escalates in intensity over weeks rather than staying stable, that's worth a vet behaviorist consult. Where's everyone's line?
53
This is really useful, thank you Jasmine. I think Luna does something similar with light reflections, though obviously cats are different from Border Collies. I maybe wouldn't have thought to apply a "disengageability" test before, but I think it makes a lot of sense as a general principle, not just for dogs.
Good distinction. Ranger fixates on tennis balls hard but drops it instantly on command. Never worried me. Makes sense why that's the right line to watch.
Agreed, and I'd add a second marker: does the fixation interfere with eating, sleeping, or basic functioning? Zeus has intense focus behaviors too (different breed, similar drive profile) but they never displace normal function. The moment a fixation starts cutting into appetite or rest is the moment I'd stop calling it "drive" and start calling it a problem worth addressing clinically.
Solid framework. I use almost the same test with Blitz — disengageability is the key metric, not intensity itself. High intensity that breaks on command is a feature of working breeds. High intensity that doesn't break is the actual red flag.
Excellent framework, Jasmine. The drive you're describing is exactly why Border Collies rank at the very top for working intelligence — we cover that ranking and what it means for training load here: allinpets.com/blog/dogs/the-smartest-dog-breeds-intelligence-rankings-7/. And for owners struggling with the focus-and-redirect piece, our obedience guide pairs well with your disengageability test: allinpets.com/blog/dog-training/how-to-get-your-dog-to-listen-proven-training-strategies-for-obedience-2/. For anyone considering the breed: allinpets.com/pets/dogs/border-collie/
#dog #train #smartest