Question 1

What are the main types of herding dog competitions?

Accepted Answer

Herding dog competitions fall into several categories based on the organization and style. AKC Herding Trials test dogs across three progressive levels (Started, Intermediate, and Advanced) on courses involving sheep, ducks, or cattle. USBCHA Sheepdog Trials follow the traditional British format where dogs must gather sheep from a distance, drive them through obstacles, and pen them. AHBA trials offer versatility with ranch-style courses that simulate real working conditions. ASCA trials are popular for Australian Shepherds but welcome all breeds. Treibball, a newer sport, involves dogs pushing large exercise balls into a goal and is accessible to dogs without livestock access. Each organization has its own rules, but all evaluate the dog's ability to control livestock calmly and precisely under the handler's direction.

Question 2

How do you get started in herding trials?

Accepted Answer

The first step is taking a herding instinct test, offered by many herding trainers and at organized events, to determine whether your dog has the natural drive to work livestock. If your dog shows interest, find a reputable herding trainer in your area who offers lessons on livestock. Most beginners start with sheep, as they are generally the easiest stock for new dogs and handlers. Regular lessons, typically once or twice per week, for six months to a year will build foundational skills including outruns, lifts, fetching, and basic directional commands. Many organizations offer entry-level trials designed specifically for beginners. Joining a local herding club connects you with experienced handlers who can mentor you. Expect to invest one to two years of consistent training before competing at intermediate levels.

Question 3

What breeds can compete in herding trials?

Accepted Answer

AKC Herding Trials are open to all AKC-recognized herding group breeds including Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Corgis, Belgian Malinois, and Old English Sheepdogs, as well as Rottweilers and Samoyeds which are approved for herding despite being in other groups. USBCHA trials are open to all breeds but are dominated by Border Collies due to the intense gathering style required. AHBA and ASCA welcome all breeds. Mixed breed dogs can compete in AHBA trials and some other organizations. While any breed with herding instinct can participate, breeds developed specifically for livestock work typically have the most success in competition. Even within herding breeds, there are significant differences in working style between breeds bred for gathering, driving, or tending.

Question 4

How are herding trials judged and scored?

Accepted Answer

Scoring varies by organization but generally evaluates several key elements. In USBCHA-style trials, points are allocated across phases: the outrun where the dog runs to the sheep, the lift where the dog starts the sheep moving, the fetch bringing sheep to the handler, the drive pushing sheep away through gates, the shed separating specific sheep from the group, and the pen putting sheep into a small enclosure. Points are deducted for wide outruns, rough handling, missed obstacles, and loss of control. AKC trials use a qualifying system where the dog must earn a minimum score and demonstrate specific skills at each level. Judges evaluate the dog's control over livestock, responsiveness to handler commands, and the smoothness and efficiency of the work. Calm, precise work scores higher than frantic or heavy-handed handling.

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