Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Thomas' Mikayla of Creekview (Mikayla)
< Link to Pedigree ~ reg. with ESCR, IESR, UKC>
Owned by: Cindy Thomas

Background:
Mikayla is a tricolor female, born January 2004, evaluated May 2007 (age 3). She lives in rural Indiana, where she is both a family companion (TDI certified therapy dog) as well as involved in herding and agility. Thus far, Mikayla's herding experiences include trialing in AHBA and working with sheep on a small farm near her home.

Mikayla is a flashy, energetic dog with quick intelligence and a strong desire to please. She is always alert to her environment, and actively works to enforce rules and maintain order. She is ready and willing to help out with whatever work needs doing.

Summary of Mikayla's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed, but with great "on/off" switch
Style -- natural gathering dog
Power -- livestock are aware of and respect Mikayla

Stock Ethic -- maintains control without causing undue stress in stock
Work Ethic -- somewhat distractible, but improving with experience and maturity

Biddability -- very responsive to guidance, control
Approach -- moderately wide
"Eye" -- loose (upright, free-moving, less intense focus)
Bark -- force barks if needed to move stubborn stock
Bite -- not needed for sheep; used seldom, primarily heels or above hock, soft mouth

Primary orientation -- very alert to both livestock and owner
Territoriality -- respects boundaries
Patrol -- patrols occasionally
Warning -- barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- defends owner's property
Defense of people -- alert, always ready to "watch your back" around livestock
Tracking ability -- moderate
Predators -- little exposure
Attitude towards newborns -- shows gentleness with newborn lambs
Pest control -- will hunt and catch rodents

Structure and Movement: Mikayla has an average build and smooth effortless movement. She is very fast, with excellent agility and jumping ability. Her coat is good quality, requiring little maintenance. She has a long tail and level bite.

Temperament: Mikayla is a confident, sociable dog, with a mild friendly disposition. She is very devoted and affectionate with her family. She is on the active side, and balanced in character ~~ alert, engaged, and responsive.