Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Cantrell's Stormy
<Pedigree: ESCR/ UKC>
Owned by: Laurie Cantrell

Background:

Stormy is a black/tan (with minimal white), intact male, born in February 2008 and evaluated at 2 years of age. He has not had much formal training yet but is regularly exposed to his owner's sheep (flighty) and poultry. The family also keeps rabbits and cats so Stormy's patience is well tested!

Stormy likes things to be orderly; he is watchful over everyone and everything on the farm and shows a sense of responsibility for all -- even the cats. He is very gentle with youngsters but assertive when he needs to be. Stormy willingly takes charge of stock but gathering is not his strong suit, so his owner will be helping him develop that aspect of his work.

Summary of Stormy's Working Traits:

Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed; he is a bossy dog but understands when to quit
Style -- natural driving dog
Power -- livestock are intensely aware of and respect Stormy

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately without causing undue stress
Work Ethic -- very willing, good staying power and focus; will work independently if needed

Biddability -- very responsive to guidance and control, tries hard to understand owner's directions
Approach -- close
"Eye" -- loose, upright and free-moving
Bark -- will bark when frustrated or if needed to move stubborn stock
Bite -- bites as needed, both front & rear, fairly soft mouth

Orientation -- livestock come second to his owner
Territoriality -- respects boundaries, stays at home
Patrol -- patrols regularly
Warning -- always barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- staunchly defends owner's property
Defense of people -- diligently protects owner, "watches your back"
Tracking ability -- will track by scent and find prey
Predators -- drives off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- very gentle and nurturing, Stormy is a natural "mother hen"
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents

Structure and Movement:

Stormy is an exceptional athlete, with excellent agility and jumping ability, great speed, and smooth effortless movement. His coat is of good quality, requiring little maintenance. He has an average build with a long tail and correct scissors bite.

Temperament:

Stormy barks when visitors arrive then greets them with a confident, friendly attitude. He is very watchful and affectionate with family, always ready to go but quiet when in the house. He is calm and steady, with a middle of the road personality -- neither hard nor soft. Stormy has a strong sense of responsibility and tries to please.