Question 1

What is a herding instinct test?

Accepted Answer

A herding instinct test is a controlled evaluation where a dog is introduced to livestock, typically sheep or ducks, in a small enclosed arena to assess whether the dog shows natural herding behaviors. The test evaluates whether the dog demonstrates interest in the stock, shows appropriate gathering or driving behavior, responds to the stock's movements, and exhibits controllability. The dog does not need any prior training for an instinct test. A qualified evaluator observes the dog's natural reactions over a 10 to 15 minute session and provides feedback on the dog's suitability for herding training. Most herding breed clubs and many working dog organizations offer instinct tests as standalone events or at specialty shows. Dogs typically need to be at least 6 months old, though many evaluators prefer dogs to be 9 to 12 months for a more accurate assessment.

Question 2

Which dog breeds have herding instinct?

Accepted Answer

Herding instinct is most reliably found in breeds specifically developed for livestock work. Border Collies have the strongest and most consistent herding drive, with the vast majority of individuals showing immediate interest in stock. Australian Shepherds, Australian Cattle Dogs, Shelties, German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois and Tervuren, Old English Sheepdogs, Corgis, and Collies all commonly show herding instinct. Some non-herding group breeds also display herding behaviors, including Rottweilers, Giant Schnauzers, and Samoyeds, which have historical working roles. Even within herding breeds, instinct levels vary widely based on breeding lines. Show-bred dogs may have diminished herding drive compared to working lines of the same breed. Mixed breed dogs with herding ancestry can also possess strong instinct, sometimes surprising their owners.

Question 3

How do you know if your dog has herding instinct?

Accepted Answer

Before a formal test on livestock, several behavioral signs suggest your dog may have herding instinct. These include circling other animals or people, attempting to gather or herd children into groups, crouching low with intense eye contact known as giving eye, nipping at heels of moving people or animals, sensitivity to movement and an urge to chase, positioning themselves to block or redirect the path of other animals, and body postures that mimic stalking behavior. Many herding breed owners notice their dogs trying to herd other pets in the household. However, these behaviors are only indicators. The definitive way to assess herding instinct is through a formal instinct test on livestock with a qualified evaluator, as some dogs that show strong behaviors at home behave differently when confronted with actual sheep or cattle.

Question 4

Can you train a dog to herd if it has no instinct?

Accepted Answer

You cannot teach herding instinct to a dog that does not possess it. Herding drive is a genetic predisposition that has been selectively bred over hundreds of generations. While you can teach any dog to follow commands around livestock, a dog without natural instinct will not demonstrate the intuitive understanding of stock movement, the pressure and release dynamics, or the sustained focus that defines true herding ability. A dog without instinct may show fear, disinterest, or inappropriate aggression toward livestock rather than controlled herding behavior. For dogs that show some instinct but lack intensity, skilled training can develop and refine what is there. Some dogs that appear to lack instinct on their first exposure may show drive on subsequent exposures once the novelty and stress of the situation diminish. This is why many evaluators recommend retesting dogs that show ambiguous results.

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