Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Maple Grove Farm's Dakota (DJ)
<Pedigree: in ESCR database>
Owned by: Diane M. Sossoman

Background:
DJ is a dark sable & white male born in November 2007 and evaluated at 3 years of age. He lives in the country with daily exposure to his owner's sheep for the past 18 months. He also has attended herding clinics where he worked both sheep and ducks.

DJ is very loyal to his family and loves children. He is exceptionally smart, and could be strong willed, but he listens well and is easily corrected.

Summary of DJ's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- driving
Power -- livestock are intensely aware of and respect DJ at all times

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately without causing undue stress
Work Ethic -- stays with job, maintains focus, will work independently when needed

Biddability -- very responsive to guidance and control
Approach -- naturally close but will widen out when needed
"Eye" -- medium - upright and free-moving but with fairly intense focus
Bark -- force barks
Bite -- bites heels and just above hock, adjusting force to suit situation

Orientation -- very interested in livestock but respectful of owner
Territoriality -- respects boundaries, stays at home
Patrol -- patrols territory
Warning -- very alert, always barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- staunchly defends owner's property
Defense of people -- laidback in general but diligently protects owner, "watches her back"
Tracking ability -- will track by scent and find prey
Predators -- drives off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- shows gentle and/or nurturing behavior with baby lambs
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents

Structure and Movement:

DJ has a sturdy build with a long tail and correct scissors bite. His movement is smooth and effortless; he is very fast with excellent agility and gravity-defying jumping ability . His coat is low maintenance and of good quality.

Temperament:

DJ is confident and sociable with strangers, presenting a mild welcoming demeanor. He is very devoted and affectionate with family, moderately active but calm and steady. He takes correction easily.