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Where are they used?
Stockdogs are used daily on many farms and ranches, mostly with
cattle and sheep. While every livestock
owner does not use a stockdog,
it could be
said that all livestock owners would benefit from the use of a stockdog.
Properly handled, a stockdog can enable it's
owner to handle his/her livestock with less stress and labor.
A dog who can persuade the stock
to move, but not bite unless necessary,
earns the trust of the livestock. It should be said though, that a
dog out of control or biting
indiscriminately, can cost the owner money due to stress caused on the livestock.
When training a stockdog pup sheep are generally used, for it is much easier for
the handler to be in
amongst the sheep to give
the dog the corrections that are
needed. But later on they will work all forms of livestock
(cattle, sheep, hogs etc.).
The principle breed used in Canada today is the Border Collie.
Developed in the border regions of Scotland, and England,
the Border Collie is regarded as the most versatile of the available herding breeds.
Where can I get one?
There are numerous ways of getting a stockdog.
The classified ads of agricultural publications often have several
listings for stockdogs, ranging from puppies
to fully trained dogs. Check our Breeders page
for breeders within Saskatchewan. Our links page has links
to other Canadian Stock Dog Associations, these will also
have breeder listings for their areas.
If you are buying an older dog, a good rule of thumb is to
see the dog work. If it is a puppy you are buying, then
it is recommended that you see the parents work, or talk to
someone who knows the parents. A dogs instinct
cannot be trained, it is bred into them. That is why
breeding is so very important and only the best breeding
stock should be used.
Stockdogs should always be bred for their working ability,
not for color or financial gain.
For more
information check our links page.
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