Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Starlight Hill's Sweet Annie ("Annie")
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Owned by: Diane Barnard

Background:
Annie is a black/white female, born May 2006 and evaluated at age two. She is the younger of two English Shepherds on a small farm in Michigan, and helps manage the livestock there including sheep, ducks and other poultry. The sheep Annie has worked are primarily wool breeds (Suffolks and crosses) and tend to be confrontational.

Annie is very good at reading and rating stock, instinctively adjusting both her position and pressure to move stock along at a comfortable pace. She is quick to pick up on routines and anticipates what is required to keep things moving smoothly. She is very aware of her environment, and occasionally needs to be called back to task when her attention is diverted by an interesting scent.

Summary of Annie's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- natural driving dog
Power -- livestock generally respect Annie

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately, without causing undue stress
Work Ethic -- somewhat distractible while working (scents hold special appeal!)

Biddability -- somewhat responsive to guidance and control
Approach -- moderately wide
"Eye" -- loose (upright and free-moving)
Bark -- will force bark if necessary
Bite -- somewhat reluctant to bite, but will grip heels/ hock/ tail with a soft bite on occasion

Orientation -- focuses on livestock but responsive to owner
Territoriality -- fenced property, so respect for boundaries difficult to assess
Patrol -- regularly patrols territory
Warning -- barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- protective of owner's property
Defense of people -- moderate
Tracking ability -- will track by scent and find prey
Predators -- no real opportunity to assess
Attitude towards newborns -- demonstrates interest, gentle approach
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents

Structure and Movement: Annie has an average build with a long tail and correct scissors bite. Her movement is smooth and effortless, with exceptional agility and moderate speed and jumping ability. Her coat is of good quality, requiring little maintenance.

Temperament: Annie has a mild demeanor and shows quiet interest in visitors. She is very watchful and affectionate with family. She is steady and calm, and moderately soft in disposition.