Is camp suitable for reactive dogs?

Camp may be suitable for dogs who bark, lunge, fixate or struggle around other dogs, people, movement or exciting environments, provided they can rest safely between sessions and work at a sensible distance from other dogs with support.

Camp is not designed for dogs who need complete isolation from other dogs or who would find being at the venue across a whole weekend overwhelming. 

If your dog needs a very carefully controlled one-to-one setup, a Collie Culture Training Day or private session may be a better fit.

Will all the dogs work at the same time?

Not necessarily. Dogs may work individually, in pairs, or in small groups depending on the dogs attending, the exercise, the available space and what is appropriate on the day.

The aim is to create useful, safe learning – not to force every dog into the same setup.

How many handler places are available?

Camp will be kept small, with a limited number of handler places. Handler places may be split into smaller groups or pairs so that dogs and owners get more focused support across the weekend.

What is the difference between a handler place and an observer place?

A handler place includes one working dog and up to two people from the same household or regular training team.

An observer place is for someone attending without a dog. Observers can watch, listen, take notes and join discussions, but they will not have working time with a dog.

Can my partner or family member come with me?

Yes. A handler place includes one dog and up to two people from the same household or regular training team. This is ideal if two people are involved in the dog’s day-to-day training and would both benefit from hearing the same guidance.

Can I bring more than one dog?

A handler place includes one working dog. Please do not bring additional dogs unless this has been agreed in advance.

Will my dog be expected to work for two full days?

No. Camp is not two days of asking dogs to work non-stop.

Dogs will have thoughtful working sessions with plenty of downtime. Much of the value of camp comes from watching other dogs, discussing what is happening, and learning how to adapt the training for your own dog.

Where will my dog wait between sessions?

Most dogs will rest in their vehicle, crate or another suitable resting space between sessions. Please make sure your dog is comfortable resting between turns, and bring whatever they need to settle.

Full venue-specific guidance will be sent before camp.

What if my dog can’t cope on the day?

We will work with the dog in front of us. Sometimes that means doing less, changing the setup, increasing distance, or focusing on helping the dog settle rather than pushing through a planned exercise.

However, because camp is a shared weekend environment, dogs do need to be able to recover between sessions and remain safe at the venue.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch and light refreshments are included on Saturday and Sunday.

You’ll be asked about dietary requirements before camp.

Is the Sunday evening pub meal included?

No. The Sunday evening pub meal is optional and is not included in the camp price.

Do I have to attend the Friday evening theory session?

Yes, ideally. The Friday evening session sets up the weekend, explains how camp will work, and helps everyone understand what they are watching for during the practical sessions.

What should I bring?

Please bring drinks for yourself, water and a bowl for your dog, plenty of high-value food, toys your dog enjoys, poo bags, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, and anything your dog needs to rest comfortably between sessions, such as a crate or bedding.

Will I get individual help with my dog?

Yes. Handler dogs will have working time and Gemma will give individual guidance during the weekend.

However, camp is a small-group learning environment rather than a private one-to-one. Part of the value comes from watching and discussing the other dogs too.

Can dog professionals book observer places?

Yes. Observer places are suitable for dog trainers, behaviourists and other dog professionals who would like to learn from watching a range of Border Collies and their people.

What happens after I book?

You’ll receive confirmation of your place, followed by joining instructions closer to camp. You’ll also be asked to complete a short pre-camp questionnaire so Gemma can understand your dog, your aims and any practical considerations before the weekend.