Why do the dogs nip at cattle's heels?
A cow won't move under visual pressure the way a sheep will. The short nip at the fetlock is a working technique fixed by breeding: the dog nips and pulls back instantly.
Herding and livestock
Cattle Dog Trials
Same idea as with sheep, except the animals weigh several hundred kilos. The dog has to be bold and quick. Above all, it has to know exactly when to get out of the way.
About the discipline
What Cattle Dog Trials are
Cattle need a different kind of dog from sheep. A sheep moves off at a look; a cow stands its ground. That's 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 bred for exactly this. They're low to the ground with fast reflexes, so they can duck a hoof.
Of all the herding trials, this is the riskiest, for dog and handler alike. It's only ever done with experienced people on hand.
How it works in practice
What a trial contains
- gathering a group of cattle
- moving them along a set route
- taking them through gates and down races
- cutting one animal out of the group
- loading them into transport or a pen
- keeping distance and pressure under control the whole time
Which dogs it suits
- cattle dog breeds, tough and quick to react
- low-built dogs that can duck easily
- handlers who have worked with large livestock before
This is no place for trial and error. A cow's hoof can kill a dog.
What you need
- access to livestock and farm facilities
- ground with safe races and pens
- someone experienced with you at all times
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Cattle Dog Trials
Is it dangerous?
Yes, more than any other herding trial. That's why you only work a trained dog on cattle that are used to dogs. And always with someone supervising.
Which breeds are used?
Mostly 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 throwing it in with them. Start on sheep or ducks, where mistakes are cheap, and move to cattle only once the stop, the flanks and distance control are solid. Even then, the first sessions use quiet cattle that are used to dogs, with an experienced handler there the whole time.
From the same category
Related sports
Duck Herding
The dog steers a small group of ducks through obstacles.
Sheepdog Trials
The dog drives sheep round a set course, directed by whistle.
Herding Trials
Trials where the dog keeps a flock or herd under control.
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.