Herding Trials and Instinct Testing: How to Start

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Herding is the sport that grew from a working job. Dogs gather, drive and control livestock under the direction of their handler. Many herding breeds love it.

What is an instinct test?

An instinct test is a short session where a dog meets a few calm sheep or other stock under supervision. The instructor watches whether your dog shows interest, such as eye, balance and a desire to gather. It is not a pass or fail, but a way to see whether herding might suit your dog.

Is your dog suited?

Herding breeds such as collies, shepherds and corgis are common, but instinct varies by individual. Some other breeds and mixes show interest too. See how to train a border collie.

Safety for stock and dogs

• Use experienced instructors and calm, suitable animals.
• Keep sessions short and controlled.
• Protect the welfare of livestock.
• Watch your dog for stress or overheating.
• Never allow chasing or harassing animals.

Before your first lesson

Your dog should have:

• Reliable recall. See recall training guide.
• A reliable stay or down. See how to teach stay.
• Comfort around strangers and other dogs.
• Good health and fitness.

What happens in a lesson

You enter a small, enclosed area with a few stock animals and an instructor. The dog is on a long line at first. The instructor guides you and observes. Lessons continue with basics such as directing the dog around the stock.

Training basics

Herding uses cues such as walk up, stand, lie down, come bye and away to me. Dogs learn flanking directions and control of pace. Training takes time and requires patience.

Trials

Trials test accuracy and control on a course of fences and gates. Scores reflect how well the dog gathers and moves stock. Levels differ by organization, from novice to advanced.

Herding instincts at home

Herding dogs may nip, chase and circle people or pets. See how to train a herding dog to be a pet. Provide outlets such as agility, nose work or herding lessons.

Finding an instructor

Look for experienced herding trainers and clubs. Visit, watch lessons and ask about methods and welfare. See how to choose a dog trainer.

Common mistakes

• Expecting every dog to herd. Instinct varies.
• Starting without obedience. Build foundation.
• Skipping safety. Use experts.
• Overworking. Keep lessons short.

Choosing the right instructor

A good herding instructor puts the welfare of dogs and stock first, uses calm animals and explains what they are doing. They should be happy to answer questions, let you watch lessons and avoid harsh corrections. Ask about their experience, their methods and how they handle dogs who are very intense or fearful.

Be wary of anyone who promises quick results, uses rough handling or lets dogs chase animals without control. Lessons should be short, and dogs should rest between sessions.

What to bring

Bring water, a leash, a long line, treats for rewards after the session and sturdy shoes. Wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty. Arrive with a rested, toileted dog, and keep your dog calm until it is their turn. After the lesson, give your dog a quiet cool-down.

Respecting the stock

Always remember that livestock are animals with welfare needs. Sessions should allow sheep or ducks to rest, and lessons should end if animals become stressed. Learning to read stock behavior is part of becoming a good herding handler.

The takeaway

Try an instinct test with an experienced instructor, and build obedience first. Herding is demanding but rewarding for the right dog.