Herding Lessons

Some of the herding arenas and pastures at our place.

***Herding lessons are on hold while we finish up a few big home remodeling projects.***

What is "herding"?:  Herding instinct is the ability to group livestock and either bring it to the owner/handler (fetch) or push the livestock as a group from behind (drive) toward a specific point, like a barn or down a road.  The only way to know if a dog has innate herding ability is to expose it to some sort of livestock that group as flocks or herds, such as cattle, sheep, goats or ducks.  Sheep are usually best, as their grouping instinct is strong (although it does vary with breed) and they are not so large as cattle that they can be as intimidating or dangerous and not so small as ducks, which an overzealous dog can easily injure.  This initial exposure should always be conducted in a controlled environment with a knowledgeable instructor present in an area small enough that the handler can maintain contact with the dog.  That's where herding lessons or clinics come into play.  Properly developed, a dog's herding instinct combined with training will enable it to take directions and apply just the right amount of pressure to move livestock at a controlled rate.

What do my dog and I need to know to participate?:  Before attending class, all dogs should have a reliable 'recall' (come) with distractions and preferably a 'down'.  They should be good around other dogs, as there are usually several dogs present on lesson nights.  Dogs may be introduced to livestock on or off leash, but must be responsive to their owners' voices, because most of the work will be done away from the owner.  Observing trials or dogs doing farm or ranch work are great ways to get an overall feel for the final objective of teaching your dog to herd, although just watching more advanced dogs at class will also help.  

Union Jack of Imagineer ATDsd, RTDs

What happens at a herding lesson?:  Eric teaches owners one-on-one how to teach their dogs to work livestock.  He will occasionally step in to demonstrate a concept, but primarily you, as the owner, will be the one directing your dog.  Owners take turns receiving instruction and time/daylight permitting usually receive a second one-on-one per lesson night.  Both you and your dog must be in good physical condition.  Herding is a demanding sport, requiring both dog and owner to cover a lot of ground and move quickly, especially in the beginning stages.  There are inherent risks involved - sheep don't always part around you when they're running your way.  With consistent training, you and your dog will progress and one day be able to perform chores around the farm and exhibit at herding (or stockdog) trials.

Class details:  Group herding lessons at the Bricksons generally run from late April through October, Mon. and Weds.  Class size is limited to whatever is doable, depending on day length.  The cost per week is $20 per dog/handler team.  $10 per day for additional dog, same handler.  Sessions begin about 5:30 p.m., first come, first serve.  You may arrive slightly later if needed and stay as long or as little as you'd like.  Bring your own drinks, shade, crates, water dishes, etc.  Just a note - it is a long hike up the hill to the water spigot and our shade trees are still skinny little saplings (no complaining allowed).  In case of inclement weather, we try to notify everyone via e-mail day of lessons if we're cancelled.  Students are encouraged to watch other teams and ask questions at any time. Two training arenas, a round pen and sorting pens are available.  Stock are Barb X Dorper sheep and Welsh Harlequin ducks.