Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Parmely's Roper
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Owned by: JoLynne Parmely

Background:
Roper is an intact tricolor male, born Jan. 1996, evaluated March 2007 (age 11). His owners are livestock contractors for rodeos, and Roper has worked his entire life on their farm, helping manage their cows, horses, and roping calves.

Roper is an exceptional all around farm dog, always waiting to see what the next job will be, and willing to help with anything. In addition to livestock chores, he is an excellent hunting dog (will flush, point & retrieve birds), kills rodents, and maintains a watchful presence, protecting farm and family. He likes to be where the action is!

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

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately without causing undue stress in stock
Work Ethic -- good focus, able to work independently as needed; he occasionally gets bored when             watching gates, (he prefers more active jobs).

Biddability -- very responsive to guidance, control
Approach -- close
"Eye" -- medium; fairly intense concentration, but upright and free-moving
Bark -- force barks as needed to move stubborn stock
Bite -- bites when and where needed, adjusting to suit situation

Primary orientation -- more focused on owner than on livestock
Territoriality -- respects boundaries, stays at home
Patrol -- patrols regularly
Warning -- always barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- staunchly defends owner's property
Defense of people -- alert, always ready to "watch your back" around livestock
Tracking ability -- good scenting ability
Predators -- drives off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- gentle and protective
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents

Structure and Movement: Roper is a sturdy, athletic dog - his movement is smooth and effortless, with excellent speed and agility and exceptional jumping ability. He has a broad, stocky build with a natural bobtail (6 - 8"), a level bite, and his coat tends to be very heavy.

Temperament: Roper is confident and friendly with strangers, and devoted and affectionate with family. He has a calm disposition. He is sensitive and moderately soft in nature.