How do you train a herding sheep?

Table of Contents

Attach your dog to a long-leash (one that is 20 to 30 feet long) and walk him up towards a small herd of animals or flock of birds while giving him the ‘walk-up’ command. Give your pup plenty of time to get used to being around the herd and reward him with a treat when he calms down.

How much does a sheep herding dog cost?

Small farmers who opt for an adult dog that is already trained can expect to pay $1,000 and upward, depending on the level of training the dog has been given. Conversely, a puppy from herding lines can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200, depending on the breed.

What herding dogs do?

As the name suggests, herding breeds were developed to gather, herd, and protect livestock such as sheep or cattle. That shared heritage means they all have the instinctive skill and drive to control the movement of other animals. To a herding dog, however, “other animals” means the humans in the house, too.

What age do you train a sheepdog?

The usual age to begin sheepdog training is between 6 and 12 months. We need the puppy to be fast enough to head the sheep, and to be mentally mature enough to cope with the stress of training and close proximity to livestock.

What breed of dog is used for sheep herding?

Common herding breeds include the Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Australian Kelpie, New Zealand Huntaway, and Australian Cattle Dog. Other breeds with herding instinct include Corgis and Shetland Sheepdogs. The most popular breed of herding dog in the U.S. is the Border Collie.

How do I get started in herding?

The first step to getting started in Herding Test and Trials is to request a rulebook from AKC so that you are familiar with what will be required of you and your dog at these events. You can request a book of regulations be sent to you or you can pick one up at an event or you can copy it from the webpage in the link.

Do herding dogs follow you?

Herding dogs, including Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers, were bred to follow human orders to perform specific jobs. For this reason, they may also follow their owner’s every move. If you brought home your dog before the age of about 12 weeks, he most likely imprinted on you, seeing you as a parent-type figure.