Why do the dogs nip at cattle's heels?
Because a cow does not respond to visual pressure the way a sheep does. The short nip at the fetlock is a genetically selected working technique, delivered and withdrawn instantly.
Herding and livestock
Cattle Dog Trials
The same logic as with sheep, but with animals weighing hundreds of kilos. The dog must be determined, quick and, above all, know exactly when to get out of the way.
About the discipline
What Cattle Dog Trials are
Working cattle demands a different kind of dog from working sheep. A sheep moves at a look; a cow does not. That is why the specialist breeds often work with short, controlled nips at the animal's heels.
The Australian cattle dog, the corgi and some Australian shepherd lines were selected for exactly this: low stature, quick reflexes and the ability to duck a hoof.
It is the riskiest of the herding trials, for both dog and handler, and is practised strictly under experienced supervision.
How it works in practice
What a trial contains
- gathering a group of cattle
- moving them along a set route
- passing through gates and along races
- separating an animal from the group
- loading into transport or a pen
- constant control of distance and pressure
Which dogs it suits
- cattle dog breeds, robust and quick-reflexed
- dogs with a low build that can duck easily
- handlers experienced with large livestock
This is not a discipline for experimenting. A cow's hoof can kill a dog.
What you need
- access to livestock and farm infrastructure
- ground with safe races and pens
- constant supervision
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Cattle Dog Trials
Is it dangerous?
Yes, more than any other herding trial. That is why it is done only with prepared dogs, on cattle accustomed to dogs, and under supervision.
Which breeds are used?
Mainly the Australian cattle dog, but also corgis, Australian shepherds or local breeds selected for working large livestock.
How does a dog learn to work cattle safely?
Never by being thrown in with them. It starts on sheep or ducks, where mistakes are cheap, and moves to cattle only once the stop, the flanks and the distance control are reliable. Even then the first sessions use quiet cattle used to dogs, with an experienced handler present throughout.
From the same category
Related sports
Duck Herding
Steering ducks through obstacles.
Sheepdog Trials
Driving sheep through a set course.
Herding Trials
Trials in controlling a flock or herd.
We do not run Cattle Dog Trials
This page is informational. We work in mantrailing, search and rescue and preparation for the TSAC and BH exams - but if you want an honest opinion on what would suit your dog, write to us anytime.