Herding Training for Dogs

Modern dogs are often seen as companions, fashion accessories or family members, but even today, people rely on dogs to work. Probably the most familiar working dog is a guard dog, but herding dogs are a vital part of many farms. These fascinating dogs are bred with a hereditary urge to herd, but they must be trained to be useful. If you have a herding dog you would like to train, be prepared to make a commitment -- the rewards in the end are great.

History

Dogs were one of the first domesticated animals. Their domestication back to approximately 2,200 B.C., and they earned their meals from the beginning. Dogs were initially used to control livestock, but over the centuries, breeds have been developed for specific tasks. Some of the smaller breeds, like Corgis, were developed to lithely weave in and out of livestock, while large breeds like German Shepherds use their size as an advantage. All herding dogs were bred with the instinct to herd, but they must be trained to be successful.

Herding Breeds

There are more than 20 breeds recognized as herding dogs, and they can be very specifically bred for their tasks. Cattle dogs are typically mid-sized dogs that have a nipping reflex. Australian Cattle Dogs and the smaller Welsh Corgis nip at the ankles of cattle to keep them moving in the herd. Other dogs work mainly with sheep, and they stare down the animals to intimidate them into moving with the flock.

Basic Training

The basic tenet of herding is that no livestock is to stray from the flock, and the dogs are not to be directly in the flock. Although this seems almost impossible, it's possible to train your dog within a few months with a flock or herd that is used to being herded by a dog, and a few techniques. Before the dog begins working at herding, he needs to learn basic commands. "Stop" and "recall" are the primary commands, and these can be practiced before the dog is introduced to the flock or herd.

Advanced Training

There are two basic patterns the dog learns: flanking, where the dog moves in front and to the rear of the animals, and moving alongside of the herd. These movements will either guide the flock in a continuous direction or steer it in another direction. For these more advanced movements, a professional trainer is recommended. After the initial training, you can do the practices yourself.

Advantages

Training your dog to herd is a practical necessity of you are using him as a work dog, but there are other reasons too. Dog shows have working dog categories, and herding is always one of the most popular events. This can become a rewarding hobby for you and an enjoyable activity for your dog. Herding breeds are happier and less frustrated if they are trained to use their natural instincts.

Resources

• American Kennel Club