Herding?

[ElsasFamily]

In an attempt to keep Elsa busy we are discussing different tasks/training that we should be doing.

Herding is an interest of mine simply because Elsa seems to enjoy trying to herd stuffed horses and other stuff animals that the children leave around. That is what has made me think of herding as an activity. I know she needs a job to do. And I love working with her. However I have no livestock of my own, only close relatives. Is it okay if she isnt being around these animals everyday? Also, I'm wondering how old a good age to start herding? Elsa is 17months old. She has gone through roughly 9 months of formal obedience training, and we are looking for more. What should they begin on...sheep or something smaller, like geese or duck? While I have access to several farms (mainly horse farms) I do not know of an instructor to help us along. Does anyone have any references for the Northern Virginia area?

Thanks to everyone for their input.
~Kim

[Silvermarten]

Here's a link to a site with herding instructors listed by state . There are 8 for VA . Hope there's a close one for you .

http://www.willowacres.com/HerdingTrainers.htm

Your fee for my finding the link is lots of photos posted on RDN once you start training

[Miabella]

Branstock Farm in Berryville gives herding lessons to dogs of all breeds, http://www.branstockfarm.com

[ElsasFamily]

Thanks Miabella, Berryville isnt that far from me.