Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Maple Grove Farm's Abilene
<Pedigree: in ESCR database>
Owned by: Vivian Kay Delk-Keziah

Background:
Abilene is a black and tan female, born in 2005 and evaluated at 4 years of age. Abilene lives on her owner's farm in North Carolina and has been exposed to livestock work -- with horses, ducks -- daily since she was a small pup; she has also worked with sheep and cattle at clinics.

Abilene is a very smart dog and a real thinker. She minds well but is always watching, and will take the initiative and work on her own at times. She likes to hunt, climb trees, and loves swimming.

Summary of Abilene's Working Traits:

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

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately, without causing undue stress
Work Ethic -- will work independently if necessary

Biddability -- somewhat responsive to guidance and control
Approach -- close
"Eye" -- medium (fairly intense concentration, but upright and free-moving)
Bark -- force barks to move stubborn stock
Bite -- bites as needed, both front & rear, adjusts vigor to suit situation

Orientation -- livestock come second to her owner
Territoriality -- respects boundaries and stays at home
Patrol -- patrols constantly
Warning -- barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- staunchly defends her owner's property
Defense of people -- diligently protects her owner, watches her back
Tracking ability -- will track by scent and find prey
Predators -- drives off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- gentle and/or protective manner with newborns
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents

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

Temperament: Abiliene is confident, friendly and sociable, presenting a mild demeanor to visitors. She is devoted and affectionate with family. She tends to be active and busy, but does not "make work" when there is none. She has a very calm and steady temperament, and is moderately soft in disposition towards people.