Certain dog breeds are naturally inclined to herd other animals (including people) and although the behavior is based on the instinct to protect, it can be extremely uncomfortable – especially with a large crowd of family and friends. If you’ve never encountered dog herding before, it’s an experience that prompts dogs to nip at feet and legs, and block a person’s path in an effort to redirect them. Here’s how to train a herding dog to let humans roam free.

1. Redirect the dog’s behavior. Otherwise known as behavior modification, redirecting dog herding is a simple matter of not following the dog’s directions. If your dog attempts to block you for example, continue to walk in your intended direction even if it seems as though you’re nudging or pushing your dog along the way. Your dog will eventually realize you can’t be herded and give up.

2. Stop your movements if the dog nips at your feet, socks, shoes or pants legs. Ignore these efforts at herding and then reward the dog when it sits at your command. Repeat the process only a couple more times. If the herding continues, put the dog outside or in a separate area of the house for a few minutes.