What makes a good sheepdog

The research was published in Journal of the Royal Society Interface. Biologist Dr King also studies swarm behaviour in other species, such as baboons and fish. You can't just rock up with a camera.

With this research you could get really good fine detail because you could reproduce it. The scientists hope that the principle can be applied in many different contexts. For example, if you want to send out swarms of drones to gather information and bring them all back.

There may be environmental uses too. However, some shepherds are sceptical of the value of the research. The only thing I would say is that they won't always pull the prey towards the handler - they may by instinct head in the opposite direction. Sheepdog trials return to county. Sheep rustling boosts rural crime. Dogs of war: WW1's canine recruits. Image source, AJ Morton. A breed known for their unique background and shepherding attributes, Sheepdogs were once primarily required for protecting their herd, but now they are one of the most popular pet breeds in the UK.

A distinctive breed due to their shaggy, heavy coasts, Old English Sheepdogs are good-natured, loving dogs that are obedient and well behaved. However, to get to a great level of obedience and behaviour they still require training, as their natural impulse is to herd and chase.

One of the other issues that can arise from training Old English Sheepdogs is that they grow at an alarming rate. Without a doubt, the most commonly owned sheepdog around, Border Collies are a very active breed that acts instinctively and intelligently. They require physical exercise often due to their build and love of the outdoors. Certainly, the ideal breed for families with a love for the activity, the Border Collie responds quickly to training but still requires sufficient teaching to become fully adaptable to life at home.

Socialise them early to help them enjoy interacting with others and cater to their exercise requirements to ensure their happiness. They are great with children but are less keen on strangers. For details on the latest restrictions click here. One good dog can do the work of five men on quad bikes — quieter, cheaper, more effectively and with complete obedience. But what makes a great dog? It is not rocket science; anyone can get a dog to perform simple tasks on the farm.

But a great dog is something very different. I have kept working collies for many years and I would consider myself very fortunate that three have proved to be great dogs. I am particularly proud of Glen, who took me all the way to the International Championships on two occasions in and to represent England, a lifelong goal for me. I say fortunate, because to have a dog with which you can gain a true bond and work successfully at such a high level in the competitive trial field is a very special thing.

Natural ability is an inherited skill, not one that can be taught. A good sheepdog is one that possesses natural instinct. But a great sheepdog is one that is born knowing how to work stock, has natural power, patience and possesses a great aptitude to learn quickly.