Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Mathis Angus Farm's Tilly
<Pedigree: in ESCR database>
Owned by: Amanda Mathis

Background:
Tilly is a black and tan female born in March 2009 and evaluated at 2 years of age. She has been raised on a farm with daily exposure to livestock, including beef cattle and pigs.

Her owner writes, "black and tan English Shepherds have been part of my family for over 40 years, and Tilly is the best dog we've ever had. She is very smart, and never forgets anything; you only have to show her once. She always wants to know what is going on, no matter what you are working on she sticks her nose in to get a peek. She is loyal and always ready to help. She stays by your side and doesn't venture too far away.

Tilly is also very good with the livestock. She loves driving cattle and pigs. She is also protective, and wants to make sure no animals get too close to us. She's extremely athletic. She can jump over large bales of hay and is fast as lightening when running. She loves playing fetch with tennis balls, and my family jokes she would be the best shortstop in the Major Leagues! She would play ball for hours on end if she could. Most of all, Tilly has a fun, loving personality. Everyone that meets her falls instantly in love."

Summary of Tilly's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- driving
Power -- livestock are intensely aware of and respect Tilly

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately, without causing undue stress
Work Ethic -- stays with the job, maintains focus

Biddability -- somewhat responsive to guidance and control
Approach -- close
"Eye" -- medium - upright and free-moving, with fairly intense concentration
Bark -- force barks
Bite -- heeler, bites willingly, as needed

Territoriality -- respects boundaries, stays at home
Patrol -- patrols territory
Warning -- always barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- will defend owner's property
Tracking ability -- will track by scent and find prey
Predators -- will always drive off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- neutral
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents

Structure and Movement:

Tilly has an average build with a long tail and level bite. Her movement is smooth and effortless; she is very fast and agile, with exceptional jumping ability . Her coat is low maintenance and of good quality.

Temperament:

Tilly is confident, friendly and mild-mannered with strangers. She is very devoted and affectionate with family. She is very active dog, with a calm, steady and resilient disposition, able to handle pressure.