Dawg Unleashed # 12

Dawg on handlers

Dawg here: Today I want to talk about handlers. Not just any handlers, herding handlers. Herding handlers are a special breed, kinda like I am a special breed of dog but not exactly. It’s complicated!

I have met many handlers over the years, all shapes and sizes, but one trait I have seen many times is an addiction to herding! We can call it an obsession if that makes you feel better. No matter what you call it, they are tenacious, at least the successful ones.

Let me define herding success as I see it. There are two schools of thought on this definition, maybe more. Some people see herding success as winning trials or earning titles, and I can get into that. Others see success as learning about herding, having fun with their dogs, and always growing. Of course, these two types are not mutually exclusive.

To me, herding is simple. I control the stock. Yes, some dogs seem to have more natural ability to do this with grace than other dogs. I happen to be naturally blessed with perfect balance, kinda like people who have perfect pitch. Just as some handlers seem to have more natural read of stock and a closer relationship with their dog.

Now I’m not saying that herding is easy. I have seen a lot of blood, sweat, and tears on the field. I get the blood but am a bit foggy on the sweat and tears, but that is the saying so I am going with it. Herding combines smart but sometimes confused dogs, silly sheep or other stock, and often overwhelmed or frustrated handlers. Not a great combination for sure success.

Handlers usually start out saying they just want to have fun. What they are really thinking is, “This herding thing looks tough. I’m not sure I can do this.” But they know their dog wants to herd so they are willing to give it a go.

Big mistake! I mean, great idea! Your dog will love this. Of course, once your dog sees stock you may not recognize old Fluffy. The dog that was happy to trudge through the woods for hours, play tug or fetch for days, or sleep on your bed forever, suddenly becomes a feral creature!

It’s not your dog’s fault, believe me. It’s not your fault. It may be the sheep’s fault but we will give them a pass for now. When herding dogs see prey (livestock) their hearing shuts off so that more brainpower can go to their eyes.

Honest, they just cannot hear you shouting or pleading. So when your dog first meets stock, hopefully, they are not free on lose stock, you may not recognize them but you will realize that your herding dog is totally alive and engaged with the activity that they were bred for. It really is in the genes.

At this point, you will find yourself a bit shaken. Only later will you decide if you want to take on the responsibility, time commitment, and educational journey of a herding handler.

Just a word of warning, if you find yourself being intrigued by herding, even after you realize the magnitude of the endeavor you are pursuing, then you may be on the long and winding road to becoming a true herding handler.

My advice? Full steam ahead and don’t look back, unless it is to see how far you and your dog have come.

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Until next time, tell your mates about this blog and...

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