Mojo and I embarked on our first-ever herding trial journey on an early Autumn Sunday morning in April, filled with anticipation and bundled up for the chilly weather, with Cooper in toe.
We are only beginning to explore the world of herding as part of our dog training journey. We had only dabbled in it once with Hannah Barry at H Bar Stockdogs and a handful of times with Stephen at Rosewood Farm Lara at this stage.
So, we came to this trial with low expectations, but knowing that Mojo has incredible instincts for working on sheep amazing genetics breed by Nicola at Trabajo Kelpies.
Setting The Stage.
As we arrived at the property overlooking Lerderburg State Park, the stunning backdrop helped distract us from the cold drizzle. We were greeted by Helen, our hosts, and the other participants while waiting for the trial meeting.
After the trial meeting to discuss the rules and trial run order, Mojo and I was the only participants in the Herding Test. The other participants were all registered for the Pre-Trial Test.
In Victorian Herding Association trials, the Herding Tests title is optional, for which you need to pass two Tests to achieve. You must complete two Pre-Trial Tests before competing in an actual Trial.
What Is The Herding Test?
The Herding Test assesses the handler’s control over the dog while working with three sheep.
The test criteria include performing a controlled sit or drop initially. Directing the dog to gather the sheep – Casting. Then, guiding the stock through the yard, making two direction changes near the pylons, and concluding with a stop and recall back to the handler.
It is a test to show the dog follows the handler’s directions and the working bond.
"Shoot for the Moon. Even if you miss, you will land among the Stars."
- Les Brown.
The Herding Test.
The first Test was quite a spectacle. I made mistakes, blocking Mojo at the wrong times and failing to block when necessary. He dashed around the sheep, which only heightened their anxiety, and chaos ensued. Although I have the footage, I’m not ready to relive it yet. It was a disaster, and we fell short of passing that Test.
Thankfully, the second Test went smoother. Mojo and I first walked around with him on a leash as a strategic move to settle him down. The test time doesn’t begin until the leash is unclipped. With both of us calmer, we executed the stops and direction changes with better control. Finally, we succeeded in passing this round!
One out of the two ain’t bad!!!
Sheep Types.
It was our first encounter with “light” sheep – a term I learned that day, referring to flighty and less domesticated sheep. Our learning experiences thus far have only involved “heavy” sheep, who were well-versed in the process and knew to stay close to humans while being worked.
Working with light sheep proved to be a learning curve for Mojo and I, and we still have much to learn!
The Pre-Trial Test.
We then had the opportunity to observe others participating in the Pre-Trial Tests. Witnessing the bond between handlers and their dogs as they guided the sheep was awe-inspiring. The young herding dogs showcased their incredible talents and enthusiasm… and sometimes a lot of spirit.
Where To From Here?
After the testing, participants received Qualifying Certificates for a pass. Mojo and I were thrilled to receive the Judge’s Encouragement Award ribbon, marking Mojo’s first-ever ribbon!
Mojo and I know we have much to learn, but our excitement remains undiminished. We are eager to continue honing our skills in this exhilarating sport.
We are grateful to Helen from the Victorian Herding Association for accommodating our late entry and patiently answering our numerous first-time questions. We also thank Shelley and Sandra, the judges of our test, for their support and valuable feedback. Lastly, we are grateful to our hospitable hosts and fellow competitors, who welcomed us.
Interested In Competing?
You can find the necessary forms here to participate in ANKC (Dogs Vic) sports. Firstly, you must complete the handler’s membership form. Then, the dog’s sports registration form.
Keeping in mind that processing will likely take several months. It took over two months, with many follow-up calls to finalise my membership. And at the time of this blog publication, Mojo’s sports registration has not been processed—approximately four months since it was submitted.
Be prepared to follow up on the progress of your form and dig deep into your patience pockets throughout the process.
For dog obedience training and behaviour modification services in Geelong, the Bellarine,
Surf Coast and Golden Plains regions, contact King’s K9 Dog Training.