Working Trait Evaluation

Dog's name: Snowy River's Little Sydney
<pedigree in ESCR database>
Owned by: Connie DeBusschere

Background:
Sydney is a black and white female, born October 2005, evaluated March 2010 (at age 4). She was born and raised in the Oregon foothills, introduced to sheep as a young pup and introduced to cattle chores as she matured. She is now her owner's "right hand" when managing livestock on the ranch.

Sydney is willing to tackle anything she's asked to do, and will work until the job is done no matter how difficult or challenging. Rough terrain, bad weather, and new or unfamiliar situations don't discourage her efforts -- she takes responsibility for her work and applies herself to figuring it out. Sydney has a calm and steady temperament but is able to kick into overdrive when circumstances require it. In addition to her ranch chores, Sydney has proven to be an excellent tracking dog.

Summary of Sydney's Working Traits:
Keenness/ Drive -- works readily when needed
Style -- natural gathering dog
Power -- commands attention and respect of livestock

Stock Ethic -- maintains control appropriately, without causing undue stress in stock
Work Ethic -- maintains focus and finishes her work; will act independently as needed

Biddability -- very responsive to guidance, control, particularly as she has matured and added "miles"
Approach -- close
"Eye" -- loose-eyed, upright posture and free-moving
Bark -- generally silent but force barks as needed to move stubborn stock
Bite -- bites when needed, primarily heels, nose or ear, adjusting intensity to suit situation

Primary orientation -- livestock come second to her owner
Territoriality -- respects boundaries, stays home
Patrol -- patrols regularly
Warning -- always barks to warn of unusual situations
Defense of property -- staunchly defends owner's property
Defense of people -- alert, ready to "watch your back" around livestock
Tracking ability -- excellent
Predators -- drives off predators
Attitude towards newborns -- neutral, but playful antics of lambs capture her interest!
Pest control -- routinely hunts rodents

Structure and Movement: Sydney has a medium build with a long tail and correct scisssors bite. Her movement is collected and powerful. She is very fast and agile, and jumps easily. Sydney's coat is of good quality, requiring little maintenance.

Temperament: Sydney is confident and sociable with visitors, greeting new people with a mild friendly demeanor. She is very affectionate and devoted to family, a calm and steady girl , not one who needs to be busy all the time. Sydney shows resolve and is able to handle pressure.