Show Border Collie herding test application
The purpose of the herding test, a limited version of a sheepdog trial, is to safeguard the future development of the Border Collie by emphasising the importance of the breed's natural herding abilities.
Additional information
Border Collies that achieve show champion status in the breed ring need to succeed in the herding test before being made up to full champions. However any registered Border Collie may take the herding test.
The herding test aims to ensure that dogs are bred to be fit for their original function and to enjoy their lives to the full.
The test consists of four principal elements – outrun, bring/fetch, balance and drive – working a group of 5 to 10 sheep.
Each dog should pass each section. If a dog fails one section then it will be at the judge's discretion whether they will be allowed to attempt part of the test again. As it is the dog's herding ability which is being tested, dogs may be handled by anyone, not necessarily the owner.