🐾 Unlock Your Border Collie’s Superpower

Scent Work Turns Their Energy Into Focused Fun

Hey Smart Collie Pack!

Did you know your Border Collie has a superpower hiding right under their nose? 🐶 Their sense of smell is 10,000 times stronger than yours! And with the right training, that powerful sniffer can provide mental stimulation, fun, and a new purpose for your pup.

Let’s break it down.

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What Is Scent Work? 🕵️‍♂️

Scent work is a game where your Border Collie uses their natural scenting abilities to find specific items or scents—think of it as hide-and-seek but with treats, toys, or even essential oils!

Why it’s perfect for Border Collies:

• It channels their intelligence into focused work.

• It’s mentally and physically engaging without over-exertion.

• It helps calm high-energy dogs and reduce destructive behaviors.

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How to Get Started in 3 Steps 🐾

1. Pick a Scent and a Treat

Start simple: choose a treat with a strong smell (like cheese or peanut butter). Let your pup sniff it, then hide it in an easy-to-find spot.

🪄 Pro Tip: Always reward your dog when they find the scent—it’s a game they want to win!

2. Make It Harder

Slowly increase the challenge:

• Hide the treat under a box or in another room.

• Use a safe scent (like a diluted drop of lavender oil, if approved by your vet) on a cotton ball as the target scent.

🛍️ Not sure where to start? A Scent Work Starter Kit makes it easy, with boxes, beginner-friendly scents, and instructions to guide you through the process.

3. Add a Cue Word

Use a command like “Find it!” when you release your dog to search. Border Collies quickly associate commands with actions—they’ll catch on fast!

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Benefits Beyond Fun 🌟

• Burns mental energy: A tired brain = a calmer pup.

• Builds confidence: Problem-solving boosts self-assurance.

• Strengthens your bond: Scent work is teamwork—you’re the guide, they’re the hero.

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Paw-tners in Training 🐶

Want to level up? Advanced scent work can include finding hidden objects, tracking trails, or even learning to identify specific scents.

Ready to turn your Border Collie into a scent work superstar? Start simple, be patient, and watch their incredible abilities shine!

Let me know how it goes—what’s the first scent you’ll try? Hit reply and share!

Cristina 🐾

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