Explore the beauty of the countryside with this Private Sheepdog Training Experience, the perfect gift for anyone looking to try something different. Set against picturesque views, this experience provides an engaging introduction to the time-honoured craft of shepherding with a Border Collie.
During your day, you’ll have the chance to work alongside fully trained dogs and enthusiastic young pups, depending on their willingness to participate. This hands-on experience highlights the special connection that can form between humans and dogs.
You’ll learn valuable lessons in patience, calmness, and teamwork as you observe how three species – humans, dogs, and sheep – can cooperate effectively. The day is designed to be enjoyable and informative, filled with moments that may surprise you.
Under the expert guidance of renowned sheepdog trialist Nij Vyas, you’ll delve into the principles of "intelligent sheepdog training" and discover its wider implications. You’ll also learn about different sheep breeds, their traits, and how to manage a commercial flock that can vary from 50 to 500 sheep.
Time permitting, you might pick up some skills with a sheepdog whistle, engage in practical shepherding tasks, and take a look around areas like the lambing shed. The experience kicks off at 10 am, with a lunch break at the nearby Launde Abbey around 12:15 pm, concluding by 2:30 pm. To commemorate your day and if possible, moments from your day will be captured on camera and the photos emailed to you the afterwards. Â
Whether you’re treating yourself or searching for a thoughtful gift, this Sheepdog Training Experience offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and learn something new in a serene setting.
Please note: This is private experience so you won't be sharing the session with anyone else.
All participants must be voucher holders and spectators are discouraged from watching close by as they can be a distraction to the sheep and dogs.
It is not recommended that participants bring their own dog, even to leave in their car.
Food and drink is not included with this voucher. Please allow for this additional cost on the day.
Bookable Monday to Friday subject to availability.Â
Occasional weekends may be available, please ask when booking if a weekend is possible.
Advanced booking is highly recommended.
Duration: Approx 4.5 hours - 10am to 2:30pm (1 hour for lunch at 12:15pm)
Please note: This experience can be weather dependant and in extreme weather, your experience will be rearranged.
Your voucher is valid for 12 Months from the date of issue.
Please note you must have booked and taken your experience before the expiry date.
The centres contracted with us hold public liability insurance. We also hold contingency liability cover. You will not be liable for accidental damage to equipment, except where damage has been caused as a result of recklessness or wilful negligence.
A cancellation indemnity, subject to terms, is included with every voucher.
Images are for illustrative purposes only. The experience may vary by location or availability. Please refer to the experience description for full details of what is included.
The Dogs
The dogs you'll be working with are Border Collies, many of which are competition dogs. The number dogs in attendance in the day will depend on the health of the dogs. Some dogs can be a bit temperamental and some only understand Welsh but this all adds to the fun!
The welfare of both the dogs and sheep is always a priority. The ground and temperature conditions will be assessed on the day to lower any risk of injury to the animals.
Lunch at Launde Abbey
A 1 hour lunch break will be scheduled for around 12:15pm. Launde Abbey offers a good selection of snacks, sandwiches and homemade cakes as well as hot and cold drinks.Â
Please note that this voucher does not include lunch so please allow for this additional cost on the day.
About Nij Vyas
Nij is a highly regarded dog trainer and sheepdog trialist with 32 years of experience. He has represented England in International trials and has been the owner of multiple competition winning dogs. He has officiated top events such as the English National Sheepdog Trials and the esteemed BBC program, One Man And His Dog.Â
Nij's sheepdog training philosophy is based on understanding and nurturing the strengths and abilities of each dog as well as the importance of creating a partnership between the handler and dogs.
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