Advice request: can a dog be made more playful?

[AmberLee]

Okay, because I'm such an agility nut....

How far away are you from Brentwood? My instructor also teaches at a facility in Brentwood, and I can PM you the details if you want Most BayTeam trainers are in the SF area so I can't personally think of or recommend a local trainer in the Stockton area.

Hmmm, I'm not sure. Let me go check.

[AmberLee]

Well, spppffft. My computer's "hiccuping" when I try to use the details on my mapping feature, but it looks like I'm a little over an hour's drive from Brentwood. I guess this sounds wimpy, but I'm really reluctant about the idea of adding this to my schedule right now. I think I'll look for some local training, instead. Also see if I can find an agility event to show mom what it's all about and see if she's open to Mickie getting this training. (Since she probably won't be too excited about my running off with her dog on a regular basis for some mysterious outings. )

[bckrazy]

I agree with Giselle... Border Collies are definitely intended to be high energy, active, and driven to work. But, there are always extremes in every breed, and just like there are some BCs who are always going non-stop, there are also mellow BCs.

Definitely work on getting her into good shape, even if she isn't interested in playing. It's much *healthier* for her to get a good amount of vigorous exercise each day... it might require some coaxing, as it sounds like she isn't very play-driven.

Obedience work is reallyyy good mental, and even physical, exercise! Work up to looong down-waits, from a long distance, so she is running to you for each recall. Is there any dog-friendly places to swim in your area? Or any nice off-leash parks or trails? There are lots of exercise options for dogs that aren't into fetching or toys. If nothing else... I live in Sacramento, and my boys would be happy to play with her! ;D