| Orville: I train my rescue, Baron, in herding. There is a web site www.ewe-topia.com that will give you more information. The owners, Joe Kapelos and Linda Leeman, are wonderful!! Joe & Linda are herding trail judges with some 25 years combined experience. They use a variety of sheep on the farm. I don't know the acerage but it is sizeable.
Give them a call at 253-843-2929 in Roy, WA. They will be extremely helpful and informative. On top of that, you'd won't meet nicer people!! They are HARD to get a hold of because they are either training or herding, just leave a message and tell them that Baron's mom directed you to them.
As far as Rotties' overall performance in herding I can only speak to Baron. But in the Rotties' history they were initially used for herding -- so "it's in the genes". I am very pleased with his progress(actually ecstatic!). We initially went to Joe because of Baron's dog aggression and to give him "a job" other than fending off all other dogs. He still has a bit lingering but his behavior in 5 months of once a week herding is nothing short of phenomenal to me. I did this to save his life and it's working. Baron is becoming what I want for him. He is alive and socially functional. I am so grateful for the resource Joe and Linda have provided not only in herding but for behavior problems. Their techniques speak to the issue you raised earlier regarding rescues and that not all can be due to behavior. Baron and other dogs who have been to Ewe-Topic are testimony to the effectiveness of thier techniques. Joe will relate you how one dog was brought to him who would bite at any dog or person, even his owner!! This dog now has a CD or CDX.
Hope this is helpful to you. Also, for me, I enjoy herding more than obedience. It's more relaxed and informal!!
[This message has been edited by Lady B (edited December 20, 1998).]  |