How to Train Sheep Dogs

Sheepdogs are used to herd sheep in the direction that the sheep owners want the sheep to go. These sheepdogs are trained gradually and sometimes have to be retrained. However, when properly trained, sheepdogs can be a valuable addition to a farm and can make work much easier. Some sheepdogs can also be trained to herd sheep competitively.

Things You'll Need

  • Long stick
  • Rope
  • Whistle
  • Sheep
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Instructions

    • 1

      Teach the sheepdog the most basic commands such as sit, stand and heel. These dogs must be able to carry out these commands if they are ever going to be able to be guided to herd sheep.

    • 2

      Learn all of the commands that sheepdogs are given in order to perform different herding techniques. Common commands include “comebye,” “away,” “stand” and “in here.” However, different commands can be used if you want, as long as they are consistent.

    • 3

      Tie the sheepdog to a long stick. Whenever you give your sheepdog a specific command, guide the sheepdog in the direction that the sheepdog is supposed to go at your command.

    • 4

      Start teaching the sheepdog whistle commands that correspond with different actions, since whistles are easier to use when communicating the sheepdog over a long distance.

    • 5

      Practice sheep herding with younger sheep. Younger sheep are more easily intimidated by the sheepdog than older sheep, which allows the sheepdog to build confidence.

    • 6

      Guide sheep that do not obey the sheepdog in order to get the sheep used to obeying the sheepdog.

    • 7

      Order the sheepdog to guide the sheep further and further as the sheepdog becomes more effective at herding.