Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Loden's Clayburn
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Owned by: Haines Loden

Background:
Clay is an intact black & tan male, born July 1999, evaluated March 2007. He works every day on the Loden's farm, helping get up the horses, putting up bulls, or moving cows.

Clay is an aggressive working dog but very controllable; when the cattle see him coming in his "work mode", they know he means business. He is particularly useful in tight situations and pens, though he also moves cattle out in the pasture as needed. When Clay's not working, he is happy to hang out and play ball with the kids.

Summary of Clay's Working Traits:
Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- natural driving dog
Power -- powerful; livestock are intensely aware of and respect Clay

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately; will get aggressive with a consistent straggler or one
        that consistently cuts out
Work Ethic -- good focus, able to work independently as needed; in summer time (Mississippi) he
        occasionally will cut out and dunk in a pool to cool off before returning to job -- this is the only
        time he gets distracted while working!

Biddability -- very responsive to guidance, control
Approach -- moderately wide
"Eye" -- medium; fairly intense concentration, but upright and free-moving
Bark -- force barks as needed to move stubborn stock
Bite -- bites heels when needed, which is seldom

Territoriality -- respects boundaries, stays at home
Patrol -- patrols infrequently
Warning -- always barks to warn of unusual situations
Tracking ability -- good scenting ability
Attitude towards newborns -- gentle and protective
Pest control -- not interested in pest control

Structure and Movement: Clay is a sturdy, athletic dog - his movement is smooth and effortless, with moderate speed, average jumping ability and excellent agility. He has a broad, stocky build with a long tail, level bite, and his coat requires very little maintenance.

Temperament: Clay is confident but reserved towards strangers, can be protective. He is devoted and affectionate with family, and has a calm disposition. He is steady and moderately soft in nature.