First Lesson - Here we look to establish (if this hasn't already been determined) or secure the presence of herding instinct in the dog, to begin the education of the owner/handler in what the dog is doing and learning, and to begin to teach the handler what is needed to be able to work their own dog. A qualified instructor usually handles the dog the entire time for this first session.
Second Lesson – We attempt to further the work begun in the first lesson and to increase the handler’s knowledge of the process such that he or she may handle the dog briefly during this visit.
Third Lesson – to increase the amount of lesson time spent with the owner handling his or her own dog, if it is appropriate for both the dog and handler. This is the lesson where the dog and (usually) the handler begin to relax and enjoy themselves a bit, assuming the lessons have been scheduled on a weekly or near weekly basis for the sake of continuity of lessons.

Proper Attire For Herding for Both Human and Canine Participants

Humans should wear closed-toed, sturdy shoes, preferably with leather uppers, such as tennis shoes or hiking boots, and long pants, preferably jeans. This is a fairly athletic activity with fast moving, heavy sheep (that like to step on toes) and faster canines.  Dress accordingly for the anticipated weather but shorts are not recommended.  Layers are recommended as humans tend to heat up quickly while learning to herd and cool down again while the dog is resting.

Canines should wear flat collars (buckle or snap-lock collars that fit properly with minimal risk of slipping over their head).  Note:  if another type of collar is required for control of the dog ringside while it is waiting it's turn, please bring that collar as well.  The dog should also come with a 6' leash that is appropriate to the dog's size and that can be gotten dirty as it may be allowed to drag in the dirt while the dog is working to facilitate catching the dog at the end of it's session

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What kind of livestock can be herded? You can earn herding titles on sheep, goats, cattle and ducks. Please see our Titles Your Dog Can Earn page.

2. What does my dog need to know before starting herding training? At a minimum, he should know his name and hopefully come when called. Everything else can be taught through herding.

3. What should I bring to herding class?  A non-slip collar (a buckle or snap-lock collar), preferably without a lot of jingling tags on it, a 6' leash that can be dragged on the ground without worry, and depending on where you are taking your lessons, a bowl and ample water.

4. Are there any hazards to me in herding?  Beginning herding involves a skill most people use infrequently - walking backward, so that you can watch your dog and the sheep. People have been known to trip and fall down. For that reason you will be asked to sign a standard release form before beginning training.

5. Are there any hazards to my dog while herding? The most common injury is torn foot pads in over exuberant dogs. This does not happen often and usually heals quickly.  Dogs with weak foot pads that chronically tear may require dog boots which you can buy at www.dogbooties.com among other websites on the internet.

6. Where can I go to watch herding events? Your herding instructor can often advise you of local trials in your area. Checking websites for the AHBA and other trial giving organizations is another way, as is subscribing to the various magazines on herding.  See our Schedule of Events page for links to these trial sanctioning organizations.

7. How long will it take for my dog to be ready for trials?  Expect the process to take about 6 months of weekly lessons to reach a beginning level of competition readiness. Some dogs are ready earlier and some later.  The AKC and AHBA Test level classes often take less time for which to prepare.

8. What kind of trials are best for my dog? That depends on your dog, his breed and age, and your training motivation level.  Also, your access to training fields, livestock and/or facilities can be limiting factors.

9. Do I need to compete my dog in sheep herding trials at all if I just want to take herding lessons?  No, not if you don’t want to. Most trainers understand the desire to establish a deeper rapport with your dog, and herding is an excellent way to do this.

10. How do I know if a trainer is qualified?  Ask them about their dogs, their training and trialing experience, ask for references, attend trials where they will be competing, ask to come out and meet with them and see their dogs work or ask others interested in herding if they have any knowledge of the trainer you are interested in working with. You may also feel free to use our links to your local Breed Club and ask their advice.

11. Why should I train my dog of herding ancestry in herding if I never plan to own sheep?  Herding offers an opportunity to create a deeper bond with your dog than you probably have ever experienced together. It is a level of partnership and teamwork that is rarely matched in any other dogsport offered today.

12. Can herding with my dogs help to  improve my breeding program? Yes, it most definitely can. Herding provides many challenges not represented in most dogsports. Trainability, sensitivity to the handler (biddability), the ability to learn and problem-solve, honesty, temperament, soundness, endurance, and pad, foot and coat quality are all tested in herding to the degree that you participate in the sport. By incorporating your findings in your breeding program, you can readily improve the quality of dog you produce.

13. Where can I find out more information about herding? I have listed several other herding related web sites on my Links page as well as local San Diego Dog Clubs. For books and magazines please see my Recommended Reading Page. Please use my links to Amazon.com or Barnes&Noble.com as I get a small percentage commission on books bought using my links.

14. How often should I plan on taking lessons? This depends on your level of commitment. I have people who visit a few times a year, just to have fun, and I have people who are serious about training their dog and take lessons twice a week. Some people train once a week to keep their dog progressing steadily and then increase the frequency of their visits before a trial.