'One Man and His Dog' was a popular TV series that ran for years, staging sheepdog trials and showing the wonderful communication skills between the shepherd and his dog. Sheepdog trials are a regular feature at Kilnsey Show and I still find it fascinating to watch the dogs at work. Each dog had to herd four sheep through a series of gates and then into a small pen. They also do manoeuvres like separating one sheep out from the rest, a necessary skill on the farm. Against the backdrop of the beautiful Dales scenery, it is really pleasant just to watch and enjoy the skill.
That takes a lot of training and patience.
ReplyDeleteNo imaginary dogs there, though the way sheep suddenly get spooked for no visible reason might make you think that they sometimes see one. Very evocative photos of the dogs and sheep in their natural environment.
ReplyDeleteI could watch this fascinating interplay for hours.
ReplyDeleteI love this. We have had Border Collies--though never so highly trained. I love watching the sheep trials and am always amazed. (The best, however was that ad (Guinness?) that showed a dog herding a bunch of upper class twits past distractions like an Indian restaurant or a bunch of go go girls into a pub.
ReplyDeleteThese dogs are so smart!
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