Is my dog capable of worrying livestock?
All dogs are capable of causing untold damage not only to livestock but to the ground nesting birds also. Great care need to be taken when out with dogs, whether well trained or not as the potential for something to happen out of the blue is always quite high, given your dog s ability to smell and track.
The problem of livestock worrying and in particular sheep worrying is one of the most serious, yet with a few precautions and training you can continue to enjoy your walks in the countryside. This does not mean that you do not have to put them on a lead.
Bertie are unique in offering this type of training in a safe and controlled environment using the very same methods which train Border Collies and other herding breeds to work sheep. You will find the training experience to be educational and enjoyable. My approach to sheep aversion is unique and complete notes and handouts will be provided on a number of related themes; such as dominance, obedience, recalls and so on
"A dog attack is costly to the livelihood of a livestock farmer. We estimate that two dog attacks in Suffolk in 2004, and the repercussions from them, cost around £4000 in treatments, lambing difficulties, poorly and late finishing lambs and difficulties getting the ewes in-lamb again." This problem can easily be avoided
A typical session will involve:
An assessment of your home situation and handling style
A brush up of basic Obedience and explanation of techniques /theories to be used
An introduction to advanced handling techniques and whistle training, where appropriate
A controlled session in a field with sheep or near sheep depending on standard achieved
What to Expect:
A better understanding of your dog
A better understanding of sheep
An understanding of how to react if your dog gets into a field full of sheep
Folder containing Notes / reading material
Honesty and a friendly, professional service
Fun
Sheep social training can either be provided on a half day or over 4 sessions (approximately 6 hours), although my preference is for the latter.
The first session will be extended to enable us to go through the comprehensive assessment that you will have completed before hand. If there are other behaviour problems that need addressing I will of course offer advice on them also.
Sheepdog Worrying
Teach your dog to understand sheep
"A Humane Approach with Common Sense
"caring for these sheep after an attack is extremely upsetting"
"I just wanted to feedback how useful this morning was. I found it fascinating interpreting Boris' body language in a new situation. For me to react to him in a strange but secure place reduced my stress and was very instructive. After previously attending turgid, dreary training classes, with the bullying swagger of trainers, I really feel that we are now both beginning to communicate at last". Sheelagh Rugg October 2011
