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Herding is an activity developed to satisfy the natural herding instincts of Border Collies, for owners who do not have access to a sheep flock of their own. Herding develops practical working skills with your dog in a non-competitive situation.
Popularity
The Herding Association of America was founded in the late 1980s after recognizing that many individuals were not in a position to use their dogs in daily practical work. Now due to demand from the UK, A UK Herding association is being formed.
Location
Herding is very much a rural activity.
Ability
The relationship between working sheep dog and handler is something very special. These necessary abilities will be developed by the training given. You will not be let loose on sheep until these are satisfactorily achieved.
Description
Herding is not a competitive or demonstration activity. It is the very real experience of the day to day life of a working sheep dog. The handler (the shepherd) must gain the knowledge of the many different techniques needed for the varying tasks of the sheep calender. These differ enormously depending on the weather, the type and condition of the sheep and the task being performed. This knowledge must be appreciated by both dog and handler in unison.
Dedication
Herding is a term used for dogs whom the ability to herd is part of their breed description. It can also form part of the training for a Border collie as an alternative to agility or flyball and is a fascinating and enjoyable challenge for both dog and handler. Few other activites allow the development of teamwork in quite the same manner. The herding dog must work with the handler yet remain independent enough to make its own decisions and judgments about situations as they arise.
Potential
The aim of Herding as an activity is to promote an appreciation of the skills and value of the herding dog and its handler. And to help preserve the naturally inherent working instincts of the Border Collie and herding breeds in general.
Closely
Related Activities
Sheepdog trialling 505, Working dogs 217.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
|
Legs
|
Sight
|
Hearing
|
Speech |
Learning |
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