29/10/2026
Let’s talk laser pointers…
I was reminded of something today that I think is worth sharing, especially for Border Collie owners.
I came across a post from Pack Leader Dog Psychology & Behavior about laser pointers, and it really got me thinking.
Laser pointers seem like harmless fun, but they trigger that instinct to chase a moving target that the dog can never actually catch. Over time, that can lead to frustration and obsessive behaviour, with some dogs eventually starting to chase reflections, shadows or little flashes of light even when the laser is nowhere around.
And Border Collies are an “eye” breed. A good working Border can have incredibly strong eye — that intense visual focus they use to control and move stock. It’s a wonderful part of what makes the breed so special, but it also means I personally wouldn't encourage creating more fixation around moving lights.
There are plenty of better ways to give them an outlet — a ball they can actually catch, tug, scent games, training, walks or just good old-fashioned play.
So if you have used a laser pointer before, don't panic. It's just something worth being aware of, and personally, it's one I'd leave out of the toy box.
Pack Leader Dog Psychology & Behavior is well worth following too — lots of interesting information about dogs and how they think and behave. 😊
Sometimes the simplest games really are the best ones.
