Doing What Comes Naturally

This past weekend, the regional Cardigan Club I am a member of held an AKC sanctioned Herding Instinct Test. It is just what it sounds like....You bring your herding dog with no prior herding experience and see what he/she does when placed in a pen with three sheep. The dog has a long line attached to his collar to keep things from getting too out of hand. It starts with the dog going into the pen with the judge but not the owner, but if the dogs needs extra encouragement, the owner can go in as well.

At pretty much nine months old, I figured Cedar was old enough to give it a try, plus I wanted to support the club. This event was less than an hour from home which is rare for their events.

I clipped the long line onto Cedar's harness and handed him over to the judge. I was pretty sure he wouldn't need me to come along. He's a confidant little bugger.

Right off Cedar digs into some sheep poop for a snack.
Uh-oh, that's not good!

Movement in the corner catches Cedar's eye. He's like "what the....?!"
Poop is forgotten!

And they're OFF!

Now back the other way!

A couple of close up crops....Cedar looks VERY pleased to be doing this!

Cedar did a very good job! The judge's words were....He passed with flying colors!

Cedar's very first qualifying ribbon!

Since this was Cedar's first ribbon he ever earned, even this camera shy gal had to have a picture with the judge, Susan Rhoades.

And last but not least, Cedar's score sheet..........

Very keen dog!

And finally, today is the 20th of the month, so I also want to capture Cedar's 9 month mark on the exact day. This little guy as photographed today! Time sure has flown by......

Sheep Herding for the Suburban Corgi

When getting out to the country for some lessons on herding sheep isn't possible, you can always go Jimmy's route. But be warned, it's noisy! Turn down those speakers.....

Have a great weekend, Everyone!

Kicking Up Dust!

Here's another photo courtesy of Anne. I really like this one because Jimmy is moving so fast he's kicking up dust! I also love the body language he is displaying. His head is down and you can just see how very focused he is on the task of getting that sheep. I also like the way the white tip of his tail stands out. All in all, a great action shot!

Click to enlarge


Also, the professional photgrapher has his pictures posted as of today. Click HERE  if you want to see those. Look for the Saturday Herding Test in the second row. Wilson is the 2nd dog and Jimmy is a bit further on.

Who Needs Sheep.......?

......When your next door neighbor has this......

Wolves in Sheep's Clothing