People often wonder just what trainers give the sheepdog in exchange for its boundless willingness. Food treats and praise sit on the trainer's shelf, untouched, unused. The sheepdog is shown its possibilities, he learns what life is like for a good dog and is invited to walk in a rational world whose farthest boundaries are defined by grace.

---- Donald McCaig, Nop's Hope

 
First and foremost, the Border Collie is a working dog, relied upon for centuries to work at the side of shepherds.
Nothing is more thrilling than watching a Border Collie's instinct kick-in.  Until he 'starts to run' instinctively, however there is no point in even trying to train him except to teach him to drop on command and come when called.

 

Photo by Lisa Hansson
Fiona Robertson and her two Border Collies, Pat and daughter Tap, traveled to Wales as Canada's sole representatives in the 2008 World Sheepdog Trial!

 

Occasionally the OVBCC has herding fun days where our dogs are introduced to sheep.
Werner Reitboeck also puts on excellent herding demonstrations at the yearly Sheep Shearing Festival.  This is a wonderful chance to show off the instinct of the Border Collie to people who have never seen the true potential of the breed.


 

Herding Fun Day 2003 - Navall Farm

 
Blur tackling a stubborn ewe
Jess & Fiona
Pat & Fiona
 Charlotte, Harper & Werner

Celia at Werner's Herding Fun Day - 2003

Piper creating confusion & getting no respect from the sheep!

 

 
REM
Norton & John have the right idea