Herding Classes

Genetic Fulfilment, Handler and Dog Education

Training to Suit different Purposes

How it Works

Our Classes are laid out to suit any level from complete beginners to owners who would like to learn more about herding.

All dogs start at Round Yard Level to ensure we can get a gauge on the dog's ability as well as the handlers capacity to control their dog and ensure the wellbeing of our sheep. This stage is suited to owners who would like to simply give their dog a fun outlet catered to their genetic makeup as well as owners who are looking to get started on their herding journey.

After proving their control and handling skills in the Round Yard, owners can progress to Open Paddock Level where they get the opportunity to grow their skills in a more challenging environment.

RoundYard

Beginners/Genetic Fulfilment

1 Trainer - 6 People - 1 Dog Per Person - 3hr Class

OpenPaddock

Requires Completion of RoundYard Level

1 Trainer - 6 People - 1 Dog Per Person - 3hr Class

Suitable Breeds

Herding Breeds Only!

Green Light Breeds

bookable without getting in contact with us

Border Collies

Koolies

Aussie Shepherds

Cattle Dogs

Kelpies

Finnish Lapphunds

Corgies

Shetland Sheepdog

Bearded Collie

Smithfield Sheepdogs

Spanish Water Dogs

Swedish Vallhunds

Orange Light Breeds

get in contact with us to assess suitability

German Shepherds

Belgian Malinois

Beaucerons

Rottweilers

Groenendaels

Belgian Tervuren

Red Light Breeds

not suitable!

any breed not listed on the green or orange list

Pitbulls

Staffies

Hounds of any Type

Livestock Guardian Breeds

Hunting Breeds

...

What if it's a Cross?

Green Light Breed X Orange Light Breed = Green Light
Green Light Breed X Red Light Breed = Orange Light
Orange Light Breed X Red Light Breed = Red Light

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age is my pup ready for herding?
- We don't recommend starting herding before the age of 6 months. At 6 months old your pup will be ready for herding depending on their individual development.

Is my dog too old to start herding?
- There is no age limit. If your dog has a medical condition, please contact us to discuss further. Otherwise, there is no reason your senior should not be able to have a go at herding.

What do I need to bring on the day?
- Just bring yourself, your lead/collar of choice and don't forget your dog.

Drinking Water, Dipping/Refreshment Water and Sheep/Expertise are provided

Do I need to prepare my dog?
- There is no need to start a big exercise regimen or go on a fancy diet. Recap on your basic obedience and we will pick up from there.

What is covered in the RoundYard Classes?

- bringing out your dog's natural instinct

- building trust in the handler and desire to work sheep

- introducing sides and a stop

- building an understanding of stock and dog handling

What is covered in the OpenPaddock Classes?

- introducting a cast

- furthering control without the confines of a yard

- introducing patterns of calm and thoughtful stock handling in open spaces to dog and handler

What happens if it rains?

- Our Sheep are as important to us as your dog is to you. Extremely cold weather and rain, extremely hot weather and extremely wet weather are challenging for our sheep. Asking them to run and be exposed to dogs when they have been exposed to extreme weather conditions is not fair on their bodies and minds.

Should we be affected by weather conditions that require our sheep to recover we will get in contact with you, cancel the workshop and refund you in full!