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Working breeds like Kelpies, Border Collies and Heelers were bred over generations to perform a specific job, controlling and moving livestock. These dogs are incredibly intelligent, responsive and driven, but many of the behaviours that make them great working dogs can sometimes be misunderstood when they live as family pets. Things like circling, stalking, chasing movement or intense focus are not your dog being naughty or stubborn. In many cases, these behaviours are simpl

If you’ve ever found yourself saying “sit… sit… SIT!” , you’re definitely not alone. It’s one of the most common habits we see in dog training, and honestly, it’s an easy trap to fall into. But here’s the thing: over-repeating commands can actually teach your dog to ignore you. 🚩 Why repeating commands causes problems Dogs learn through patterns and consistency. When we repeat a command multiple times, our dogs quickly learn that the first cue doesn’t really matter, because

At Shimmy Downs Kelpies, we often talk about the importance of teaching dogs the practical skills they’ll need in the real world. One of those skills (and one that sometimes gets misunderstood) is teaching your dog to stand calmly while tied or clipped to a fence. When introduced correctly, tying a dog up is not cruel . In fact, it’s an important safety measure and a valuable piece of foundation training for many working breeds. Why this skill matters Teaching your dog to set

Summer in Australia can bring intense heat, and while working dogs are tough and capable animals, they are still vulnerable to heat stress. As handlers and trainers, it’s our responsibility to prioritise their safety and wellbeing — especially during periods of extreme weather. At Shimmy Downs Kelpies, we are fortunate to have an undercover arena and multiple troughs available so dogs can cool off when needed. These measures help reduce heat exposure, but they don’t eliminate

James training Phoenix. This fantastic pic by his owner, Ash, from Crimson Phoenix Photography We all know working breeds have energy to...

James and Shakobe Rip One of the questions we’re asked most often is: “What do you feed your dogs?” At Shimmy Downs Kelpies, healthy,...

Ever wondered where Shimmy Downs Kelpies gets its name? Like most good stories, it starts with a bit of love, a bit of land, and a whole...

At Shimmy Downs Kelpies , we often meet people who say: “My dog is a Kelpie/Border Collie/Other Working Breed… but they’re just a pet....

Understanding the Purpose Behind Our Specialised Training Approach At Shimmy Downs Kelpies, we’re often asked why we exclusively accept...

Helping You Choose the Best Training Type for You and Your Dog At Shimmy Downs Kelpies, we know that no two dogs—or owners—are the same....

Located just 10 minutes out of Busselton , Shimmy Downs Kelpies is more than just a dog training business — it’s a passionate hub for...