Sheepdog School: Using a collie to catch a sheep

Man’s best friend, a loyal companion, and a farm’s greatest asset – the value of a well-trained sheepdog cannot be overestimated.

But even the most experienced of collies can have their quirks.

See also: Sheepdog School: Teaching a collie whistle commands

Assisting with these training challenges are shepherding husband-and-wife team Emma Gray and Ewan Irvine.

Based on the Scottish Isle of Bute, the pair are known for breeding and competing some of the country’s finest and most successful dogs – producing world record breakers and achieving considerable national trialling success. 

More recently, they have set about sharing advice and training tips through their online platform, Sheepdog School.

And they are also here to help Farmers Weekly readers in a monthly series.

© Jeff Holmes

Here, the pair discuss the best way to catch a sheep. 

Take the stress out of catching sheep

“The tups are out with the ewes, and as such we can turn our minds to lambing time and all that this entails,” says Emma.

For some, lambing can be the busiest time of year for their dogs, particularly if lambing is taking place outside.

At this time, more than ever, the pair explain that a well-trained sheepdog is invaluable to make the capture of any ewe less stressful for both sheep and shepherd.

“Sometimes people resort to chasing the sheep down with a vehicle while asking the dogs to ‘grab it’,” says Emma.

“Although this works, it is hard on sheep, dog and man, and it can become dangerous – running down a sheep with a prolapse in an excitable manner can end in disaster.

“Instead, it is preferable to perfect a technique that keeps the sheep calm to make sure we can get the best outcome.”

Emma and Ewan advise that to make the best catch, it is wise to set yourself up properly to start with.

“Quietly separating the ewe and steering her towards a fence will help, and this also indicates to the dog which sheep you want to catch.

“Sheep, when feeling vulnerable, usually run downhill, and often to water, so it is wise to go with the behaviour rather than fight against it.

“Parking a quad or vehicle against a fence to make a right angle can aid in reducing the escape routes.

“Add a trailer too, and you can even create a funnel to aim the sheep into.”

The pair also recommend that, when using your dog, you should try to keep it just outside the sheep’s fight bubble.

“Once a dog gets too close, it inevitably ends up in a stand-off and possibly a grip.

“You want to try to make sure that when the sheep decides to stand and fight, you are there to take advantage and to grab her.

“Be prepared to help your dog – after all, it is a team game,” says Emma.

A well-trained dog has the ability to stop and wear a sheep towards you, often distracting the sheep enough that it will forget you are there until you are able to make the grab.

As for equipment, Emma says: “If you haven’t already got a ‘super crook’, I would wholeheartedly recommend one.

“The self-locking foot catch has revolutionised our lambing, as it allows you to catch a front or back leg with ease and little skill.

“All you need is for your dog to hold the attention of the ewe so you can sneak close enough, or even snag one on the run as they dart past.

“Once caught, you can also lock two legs together to immobilise the sheep, allowing you to gather up lambing supplies.”