All Dogs Go To My Blog

The Stockdog Club at Lakeland College is about more than just training dogs; it is about training students.  This year's Stockdog Club consists of thirteen members, three of whom are returning members to the club.  The club is led by Deanna Krys, who herself took on the challenge of training her first stockdog at Lakeland College in 1993.  Assisting her in coaching are trainers Ted Wheat and Sarah Van Yken. 

Trainer Sarah Van Yken leads the Stockdog Club members in leash work exercises at a recent practice.

Typically, stockdogs in the club are a recognized herding breed such as Border Collie, Australian Shepherd,  or Kelpie.

This young Australian Shepherd is alert and ready to work

Only Border Collies and Australian Shepherds are enrolled in the Stockdog Club this year.  These dogs range from ten months of age to three and four years old. 

            The stockdogs are schooled in leash work before they are started on sheep.  The Stockdog Club uses sheep as they are both safer to handle and build confidence in dogs.  The dogs may later be introduced to cattle once their skills are more advanced.  Many of these dogs will return to cattle operations trained and ready to work the larger stock. 

            The Stockdog Club meets every Monday and Thursday evening for practices.  The club holds a clinic with world class trainer Elvin Kopp, and holds a demonstration at Little Royal in March.  Students involved with the Stockdog Club may also travel to other competitions.  Many hours are spent caring for and training these dogs, and by the end of the school year these dogs along with their owners will be skilled in the world of stockdogs.