Activities for Border Collies
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Agility & Jumping: Agility is a dog competition open to all dogs, which was originally developed from equestrian show jumping. The aim of this competition is for a handler to direct his dog around a course of different obstacles to assess and enhance their intelligence and ability. It is an educational and sporting activity intended to improve the dog's integration into society. Running a dog in an agility trial is the ultimate game for you and your dog and is one of the most exciting canine sports for spectators. In an agility trial, a dog demonstrates its agile nature and versatility by following cues from the handler through a timed obstacle course of jumps, tunnels, weave poles and other objects. It's an activity that strengthens the bond between dog and handler and provides fun and exercise for both, which might explain why it's so enjoyable to watch and has become the fastest growing dog sport around the globe!
For more information, please go to the dedicated web page on this site.
For more information about Agility & Jumping trials, visit the 'Agility' page on the Dogs NSW website.
Conformation: Showing dogs is a rewarding sport where the thrill of competition is combined with the joy of seeing beautiful dogs. Dog shows are one of many types of ANKC events in which ANKC Registered dogs are eligible compete, and there are shows held all over Australia on almost any given weekend in a calender year. Dog shows originated as a means for breeders to evaluate breeding stock, and this is still the intent today. The dog's "conformation" refers to it's overall appearance, construction, unique breed features, health and temperament, all of which are considered by a qualified judge.
For more information, please go to the dedicated web page on this site.
For more information about the getting started Conformation dog shows, visit the 'Showing Your Dog' page on the Dogs NSW website.
Dances With Dogs (Heel Work To Music):
For more information on Dances with Dogs, visit the 'Dances With Dogs' page on the Dogs NSW website.
Herding: Herding is fun and a great social activity. It gets you outdoors, keeps you active and is good exercise for all involved. Herding will intensify the relationship between you and your dog. It's a great pleasure to watch dogs perform the basic farm work they once were used for. Ask any handler and they will describe the satisfaction in learning to work your own dog. Herding is complex and very challenging to learn, but well worth the effort!
For more information, please go to the dedicated web page on this site.
For more information about Herding trials, visit the 'Herding' page on the Dogs NSW website.
Obedience: Obedience is a discipline which tests the ability of dog and handler to work as a team whilst the dog follows set commands. Help your dog realise its full potential by entering Obedience trials and earning competitive obedience titles. Obedience trials demonstrate the usefulness of the dog as a companion to man and showcase dogs that have been trained and conditioned to behave well in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs. ANKC Obedience trials allow exhibitors and their dogs to enjoy companionship and competition as they proudly earn Obedience titles.
For more information, please go to the dedicated web page on this site.
For more information about the titles you can obtain in Obedience Trialling, visit the 'About Obedience' page on the Dogs NSW website.
Rally: Rally is a new performance discipline which is a variation on traditional Obedience trialling. Rally combines the teamwork and commands of Obedience with the fun and excitement of Agility. Handler and dog must negotiate a course and complete set tasks at checkpoints. Unlike Obedience trialling, the handler is allowed to encourage and praise their dog during the course. It is fast, fun and a great way to build a relationship with your dog. Rally is new to Australia in 2012!
For more information, please go to the dedicated web page on this site.
For more information about Rally, you can obtain information at the bottom of the 'About Obedience' page on the Dogs NSW website.
Scent Work: The sport is based on the work of detection dogs (eg those who search for drugs or explosives). It is suitable for dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes (must be over 6 months to compete in trials), and is particularly helpful to assist ‘reactionary’ dogs and those who may not be able to handle the conditions asked of them during other trial situations. Scent Work builds confidence, burns off mental and physical energy and enhances the bond between dog and handler.
For more information, please go to the dedicated web page on this site.
Tracking: All breeds of dog can learn to track – it uses their natural scenting instincts which is enjoyable and rewarding. Tracking involves training a dog to follow a ground scent trail and find any discarded articles of clothing along the track. Dogs must wear a tracking harness, and must track at the end of a 10 metre lead, unless topography makes this difficult. Tracking in NSW is done mostly in winter, due to the risk of snakes and heat of summer. A number of Obedience and Tracking clubs teach tracking, in which a dog and handler may learn how to track. Some of these clubs also run tracking trials, where dogs and handlers can enter to gain their tracking titles. To be eligible for entry in Tracking Trials a dog must have passed the Preliminary Tracking qualification test.
For more information, please go to the dedicated web page on this site.
For more information on Tracking trials, visit the 'Tracking' page on the Dogs NSW website.