Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Good Shepherd's Hallelujah (Holly)
<Link to Pedigree>
Owned by: Amy Dorsch

Background:
Holly is a clear sable/white female, born in 2002, evaluated in 2006. She lives and works on a small farm in Illinois with a variety of livestock including goats, pigs, horses, ducks and chickens. Holly's best quality is her watchful, responsible manner: she takes it upon herself to care for anything young and helpless (human or animal!); she is bossy enough to keep order in the ranks, but biddable enough to happily obey her owner.

Holly can be wary of strangers, however she is a reliable and loving companion for the large and active family (including 8 children) with whom she resides.

Summary of Holly's Working Traits:
Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- more of a driving than gathering dog, but will do both
Power -- livestock generally respect Holly

Stock Ethic -- Holly is nurturing and gentle, she does not abuse livestock
Work Ethic -- will work independently; somewhat distractible while working

Biddability -- generally responsive to guidance, control from her owner
Approach -- naturally works close to stock
"Eye" -- loose eyed (upright, free-moving, generally relaxed)
Bark -- will force bark if necessary
Bite -- seldom bites while working, but if appropriate will grip livestock on heel, neck, or ear

Territoriality -- aware of boundaries, tends to stay at home
Patrol -- patrols territory regularly
Warning -- barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- protective of owner's property
Tracking ability -- rarely tracks (not particularly "scent-oriented")
Predators -- drives off predators from her territory
Attitude towards newborns -- gentle and nurturing with young
Pest control -- occasionally hunts rodents

Structure and Movement: Holly is average in build with smooth, efficient movement. She is very agile, with moderate speed and jumping ability. She has a long tail, correct scissors bite, and her coat is low maintenance and of good quality.

Temperament: Holly is very devoted and affectionate with family members; she is moderately aloof with unfamiliar adults, neither aggressive nor friendly. She is fairly laidback, with a calm but sensitive disposition.