Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Good Shepherd's Blacksheep Ivy ("Ivy")
<ESCR, UKC>
Owned by: Amy Dorsch

Background:
Ivy is an intact female, born in 2006 and evaluated at 2 years of age. She lives on a small diversified farm and works as a chore dog, helping out with goats, sheep (heavy), ducks and other poultry, and the occasional steer, as well as keeping an eye on the activities of a large and busy family.

Ivy is an ethusiastic and willing partner with a happy, affectionate nature. She can be a little headstrong at times.

Summary of Ivy's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- balanced, without apparent preference for either gathering or driving
Power -- livestock are intensely aware of, and respect, Ivy

Stock Ethic -- generally maintains control appropriately; occasionally comes on a bit too strong
        before settling down to work
Work Ethic -- stays with the job, maintains focus

Biddability -- somewhat responsive to guidance and control
Approach -- close
"Eye" -- loose, with an upright posture and free-moving style
Bark --force barks
Bite -- bites as needed, typically above the hock

Orientation -- livestock generally come second to focus on owner
Territoriality -- generally respects boundaries and stays at home
Patrol -- patrols territory
Warning -- always barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- staunchly defends owner's property
Defense of people -- alert and responsible in watching over owner
Tracking ability -- will track by scent
Predators -- drives off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- shows gentle, nurturing attitude
Pest control -- hunts rodents

Structure and Movement: Ivy has an average build with a long tail and correct scissors bite. She has excellent speed and agility, and average jumping ability. Her coat is of good quality, requiring little maintenance.

Temperament: Ivy is moderately confident and willing to socialize with visitors; she is very devoted and affectionate with family. She is calm, fairly steady, and moderately soft in disposition.