Herding is a dynamic and instinct-driven sport that allows dogs to showcase their natural ability to control and move livestock. Traditionally developed to assist with managing animals on farms and properties, herding remains a vital expression of working dog heritage
What is Herding?
At its core, herding is about partnership — a unique bond between dog and handler working together to manage livestock such as sheep, ducks, goats, and cattle. Each herding breed has its own distinct working style, developed over centuries in response to specific tasks and regional needs. Whether gathering sheep into a tight group, driving cattle through a paddock, ensuring goats are managed or keeping a watchful eye on a wandering duck, herding trials test the dog’s ability to respond to the handler’s cues while also making independent decisions — all while maintaining control and calmness around stock.
About the All Breed Herding Program
The All Breed Herding program aims to preserve the traditional styles and working instincts of the many different hearding breeds from around the world in a controlled and supportive environment.
Dogs are introduced at an instinct-testing level, where their natural aptitude is assessed. From there, they can progress through various levels of challenges from basic gathers to advanced manoeuvres such as cross-drives, out-runs, and off-balance work that test the dog's responsiveness, judgement, and teamwork with the handler.
Participation is open to over 30 herding breeds, as well as eligible crossbreeds that display herding lineage. See our Eligible Breeds list below to check if your dog qualifies. Dogs must be either Main, Limited, or Associate Registered with Dogs West.
Why Participate in Herding?
For dogs bred to work stock, nothing is more fulfilling than engaging in the task they were born to do. Herding trials not only keep the working instincts alive but also deepen the bond between dog and handler. They offer an outlet for mental and physical stimulation and provide an opportunity to be part of a passionate and supportive community.
Even if you don’t own a farm or livestock, herding can still be for you. Herding clubs and training venues often provide access to stock and mentoring. Many participants begin with no experience but quickly become involved thanks to structured programs, friendly coaching, and regular trials.
Where and How to Get Started
Herding is available in Western Australia through Dogs West-affiliated clubs and venues. Training is available for all experience levels, from beginners through to seasoned handlers preparing for competition.
Dogs West and Dogs Australia are committed to training and accrediting judges, providing trial venues, and developing safe, educational programs for handlers and dogs.
The program starts at a basic level to demonstrate instinct, progressing to very challenging tests that include cross drives and off balance work.
Eligible Breeds for Herding
- Breeds traditionally developed for herding work include, but are not limited to:
- Australian Breeds: Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Kelpie, Australian Shepherd, Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
- Collies and Shepherds: Border Collie, Bearded Collie, Collie (Rough and Smooth), German Shepherd Dog, Belgian Shepherds (All Varieties), Shetland Sheepdog
- European Working Dogs: Briard, Bouvier des Flandres, Old English Sheepdog, Polish Lowland Sheepdog, Finnish Lapphund, Norwegian Buhund, Puli, Pumi, Swedish Vallhund
- Corgis: Welsh Corgi (Cardigan and Pembroke)
- Northern and Other Recognised Herding Breeds: Samoyed, Canaan Dog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Keeshond, Kerry Blue Terrier, Norwegian Elkhound, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Tibetan Terrier, Rottweiler, Standard Schnauzer, Giant Schnauzer
- Mixed Breeds: Mixed breed dogs with herding lineage (e.g., a Border Collie x Kelpie) may also be eligible to compete, provided they are Associate Registered and exhibit suitable temperament and instinct.
Learn More
For training opportunities, upcoming trials, and how to get your dog involved, contact the Dogs West Herding Subcommittee or one of our affiliated clubs. Whether you're new to the sport or looking to take your herding journey to the next level, there's a place for you in the Dogs West Herding community.
