Sunday, February 1, 2009

have you herd?

Gyppie had a herding lesson on Saturday. We are both getting more confident with each other and what to do with those wooly creatures. It's neat to see her look like a Border Collie - head and tail low, and showing some patience. She's not the crazed creature running around taking the occasion piece of floss between her teeth with head and tail high over her back :), though she still likes to give a bit of chase, just to mix it up and keep me on my toes.

I still really know nothing about this herding stuff, but between Scott and Jenny I am slowly learning a few things. I got to watch Scott and Jenny each move some sheep yesterday and it was pretty cool to see how it all comes together. There is so much to watch - the sheep, the dog, where you are going next, and where you are then. It seems you need eyes in the back of your head.

I am enjoying it more and more with each lesson. Gyp is still really soft and can be a bit sulky on her lie down, but she was really taking direction well. And I am starting to understand how my position affects her and I need to back off, and just let her go, it is a pretty neat feeling.

She is working alot farther away from me now too, which is different than when we were in the round pen. I love that she keeps getting more confident with each lesson, I think it is good for her, not just in the herding situation, but for life in general. It's good for her to be a bit bossy :)

And to top off the day, we got to feed some lambs, they are just soooooo cute. I didn't get any photos of them though, but trust me, they are CUTE!!!!

8 comments:

Phantom Ridge Border Collies said...

We were there on Monday & Tuesday. Got to feed the lambs too. I could have spent all day out there with them they are so cute just like puppies. Not sure how people could eat them. Glad to hear Gyp is coming along.
Louanne

Jules said...

Very exciting!! Herding is so confusing, but so much fun.

Loretta Mueller said...

FUN FUN FUN! Don't get too addicted!!! :)

Sarah said...

I know I love the lambs, i have an unhealthy obsession with them!!! it want to steal them - but they they grow up ...

Gyp is coming along - I think she is about grade 1 right now :)

it is becoming addicting and yet sooooo confusing, that is what I think I like about it!!!

BCxFour said...

Uh oh..another herding addict being created.

I love the pictures!

manymuddypaws said...

go gyppie go!!!

Judy said...

Gyp really does have all the moves and she is so fast to change her stance. Its great to see her doing what she was bred for!

Kim said...

Good girl Gyppie! Hopefully next time I get to watch you in action.