Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Winged Elm Robby
<UKC>
Owned by: Cindy Tanner

Background:
Robby is an intact male, born in 2006 and evaluated at 2 years of age. He has daily exposure to cattle and poultry on his owner's farm, working them regularly throughout the year. In addition, he is called on to help with both hogs and sheep (typically flighty) on a seasonal basis.

Robby is an easygoing dog with excellent manners -- trustworthy and respectful of rules, watchful of his owner, wonderful with kids. He has a strong drive to work and is both diligent and biddable in his approach. He would benefit from a bit more "heft" in both build and approach (with cattle) but continues to progress with maturity.

Summary of Robby's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- natural gathering dog
Power -- commands respect, particularly with sheep

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately without causing undue stress
Work Ethic -- stays focused when on the job, alerts owner when there is work to be done!

Biddability -- responsive to guidance and control close in; less responsive at a distance or under stress
Approach -- close with cattle, moderately wide with sheep and poultry
"Eye" -- adjusts depending on livestock; typically loose with cattle, medium with sheep
Bark --force barks if necessary with cattle
Bite -- none (yet)

Orientation -- primary focus is on owner
Territoriality -- respects boundaries and stays at home
Patrol -- patrols territory
Warning -- barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- mild, increasing with maturity
Defense of people -- again, mild but increasing with maturity
Tracking ability -- will track by scent
Predators -- drives off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- neutral in attitude and behavior
Pest control -- hunts rodents

Structure and Movement: Robby has an average build with a long tail and correct scissors bite. His movement is slightly impaired following a broken leg, but he retains average speed, agility, and jumping ability nonetheless. He has PennHIP scores of 0.41/ 0.36. His coat is of good quality, requiring little maintenance.

Temperament: Robby is confident and relaxed with visitors but prefers to remain aloof rather than socialize. He is devoted and affectionate with family. He is calm, very steady, and moderately soft in disposition.