Herding
A Sheepdog trial (also herding test or simply dog trial) is a competitive dog sport in which herding dog breeds move sheep around a field, fences, gates, or enclosures as directed by their handlers. Such events are particularly associated with hill farming areas, where sheep range widely on largely unfenced land. These trials are popular in the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa, Canada, the USA, Australia, New Zealand and other farming nations. – Wikipedia
Herding can be a great sport to get into for those high energy dogs that seem to run for hours on end. If you own a Border Collie, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Kelpie, or another herding breed, you know what we’re talking about. These dogs were bred for their endurance and herding ability, so it’s only natural to use the sport of herding as an outlet for their excess energy.
Dogs Best Suited for Herding
- Breed: Herding breeds such as Australian Cattle Dogs, Australian Shepherds, and Border Collies. Some organizations allow mixed breeds with herding ability.
- Age: 6 months is a good age for an “instinct test”
- Size: Small – Large, depending on breed
- Training: Herding
