The Shepherd’s Dog

It is very important for a shepherd to have a dog who brings sheep into the shed or an area but also to wheedle out a single sheep from the rest of the flock. There is no good flock without a good shepherd and there is no good shepherd without good dogs. A well-bred sheepdog knows more about sheep than the stockman. A good stock dog can give 10 to 12 years of service.   A Border Collie is a smart and careful lifestock dog. He works  with his head low to the ground, with his hindquarters high and and his tail tucked between his hind legs. This breed can run very fast, yet stop in an instant or switch directions  without stopping. The Border Collie does not take his eyes off the sheep.  The stock are not afraid, but they respect  the dog and go where he directs them. This sheepdog is very sensitive to commands and can distinguish slight variations in the many whistles he understands, responding appropriately to each tone.   The dog must obey explicitly. Otherwise herding sheep on steep hills or high cliffs could mean severe consquences.

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