It isn't a rare occurrence these days to see a shepherd and his dog lead a herd to pasture. This dog's role is also regaining interest and it particularly apreciated by dog lovers.
Shepherd dog's working abilities and level of training can be evaluated in special herding competitions. The goal of these tests is to place the handler/dog team in conditions that are as close as possible to natural working conditions. Such competitions in Europe only involve dogs that work with sheep, whereas in the United States there are also competitions for dogs working with cattle herds.
Demonstrations may also be found with dogs which have been trained for other types of animals such as geese and pigs.
These competitions are divided into two groups: the "inter-breed" division, which is open to all shepherd dogs and those reserved for Border Collies.
While a dog is asked to show a lot of initiative under natural herding conditions, perfect obedience in prescribed exercises is required in the competitions.
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