Instructions
Buy your dog from a reputable breeder. If possible, see the dog's mother working. This will not guarantee success, but is often a good sign. Learn as much as you can about training techniques, by reading and watching sheepdog training DVDs and books. Attend trials and shows. Best of all, if you know a farmer, ask if you can come along while his sheepdog is working the sheep.
Bond with your dog by spending time with it every day. Teach it to focus on you by always being consistent in your approach, not becoming overexcited, or most importantly, not taking out a bad mood on the dog. Familiarize the dog with the sheep, but do this patiently and slowly. The dog's natural instinct may be to run straight through the sheep. Avoid this by replacing the dog's lead with a long soft rope, for instance, a lambing rope. Keep the dog under your control this way.
Teach the dog simple commands. Teach it to respond to "lie down." Praise it when it responds correctly. Your dog should also respond to "come away." Gradually teach the dog to run in a counterclockwise and clockwise direction around the edge of the flock of sheep, by using a different command for each. Demonstrate by moving in the way you want the dog to move. Slowly increase the training time until the dog knows what is expected of it.
How to Teach Your Dog to Herd Sheep
It is a joy to see a dog working sheep perfectly, herding them correctly, without losing control or stressing the sheep. You may wonder at who has had the time, patience and expertise to bring a dog to this high standard. Indeed, a well-trained sheepdog is an invaluable asset to a busy farmer. In addition many take their dogs to local shows and win prizes by demonstrating their dog's skills and discipline. You can also do this, but only if you put ideas of instant gratification out of your head and take the time to train your dog to herd sheep successfully .