Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Ross's Okie Boomer
<Pedigree: ESCR step in>
Owned by: Bill Ross

Background:
Boomer is a sable/ white, intact male, born in September 2008 and evaluated at 14 months of age by a professional trainer. Boomer has been exposed to livestock work -- with cattle -- on a limited basis at a neighbor's farm.

Boomer seems to have "common sense", he can "figure out what is needed and expected." He tends to be a little stand-offish with strangers at first but warms quickly to family members. He is an excellent watch dog.

Summary of Boomer's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed, continuously if not supervised
Style -- natural favors a driving style, keeping stock grouped and moving them away from owner
Power -- livestock generally respect Boomer

Stock Ethic -- shows natural ability but needs training to smooth out rough edges
Work Ethic -- somewhat distractible, mostly due to how he is being handled (owner experience!)

Biddability -- very responsive to guidance
Approach -- close
"Eye" -- shows intense focus, measured approach
Bark -- force barks
Bite -- unable to evaluate (not appropriate for livestock being worked)

Orientation -- livestock come second to his owner
Territoriality -- respects boundaries and stays at home
Patrol -- patrols
Warning -- alerts to unusual situations
Defense of property -- staunchly defends his owner's property
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: Boomer is an excellent athlete with smooth efficient movement and outstanding jumping ability and agility. He has an average build with a heavy coat, long tail and level bite.

Temperament: Boomer is confident and discerning towards strangers. He is devoted and very affectionate with family. He has a high energy level, but a generally calm disposition.