The first session on sheep.

If you or your dog are new to herding, we start with an evaluation. A single session where Ian looks at your dog on sheep, talks with you about your goals, and decides where to begin.

An evaluation is essentially a first private lesson, with more time spent talking. Ian will put your dog on sheep in a controlled setting to see what they have — natural instinct, gathering, feel, pace, temperament under pressure. You'll talk about what you want to do with your dog: trial in open competition, help around the farm, or just do something meaningful together.

By the end of the session you'll have a clear sense of whether your dog is a good candidate for herding training, what kind of lesson rhythm makes sense, and what to expect from the process.

Every dog and handler is different. The evaluation is where we figure out what your particular pair needs.