Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Massie Creek's Good Shepherd ("Shep")
< Link to Pedigree >
Owned by: Jill Dant

Background:
Shep is an intact black and tan male born April 22, 2006. He works everyday on our farm with goats, sheep and chickens. Since he is still quite young, extra maturity, experience and training will improve his working skills over the next years. Much of his work is still controlled by use of a long line.

Summary of Shep's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- eager to help, and obviously enjoys it
Style -- will drive or gather depending on the circumstances
Power -- livestock are aware of and generally respect Shep, with the exception of some stubborn goats         who sometimes ignore or resist him

Stock Ethic -- maintains control; tends to be too aggressive when stock breaks
Work Ethic -- usually very focused (can be distracted by food or females in heat) has worked well
        independently in unplanned livestock escapes

Biddability -- generally responsive to guidance, but needs work as he can be hardheaded or distracted
        at times
Approach -- wide on sheep, moderate on chickens and close on goats that need it
"Eye" -- strong eye on chickens, loose eye on goats and sheep
Bark -- works silently
Bite -- will bite stubborn stock

Territoriality -- respects boundaries
Patrol -- patrols occasionally
Warning -- barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- defends owner's property
Tracking ability -- can track by scent and find prey
Predators -- will drive off, capture or tree raccoons, possum, rodents, etc.
Attitude towards newborns -- very curious, gentle and protective
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents, moles, etc.

Structure and Movement: Shep is of a small build (about 45 lbs. currently), with a long tail, easy care coat and handsome appearance. He is very athletic, fast and has exceptional jumping ability.

Temperament: Shep is very sociable and affectionate. He needs lots of physical and mental challenge or he can be annoying and hyper, though he is relaxed and calm when he has been able to work and exercise. At times he is stubborn, but he is also very brave and protective. I expect him to grow to be an excellent dog with added maturity.