A sheepdog trial – also herding event, stock dog trial or simply dog trial — is a competition or test of the working abilities of dogs of herding breeds. It is a type of dog sport that emerged in the 1860s in New Zealand. By the 1870s regular trials were also being held in Australia and in the United Kingdom, and by the end of the twentieth century the sport had spread to many countries of the world. In competition, dogs demonstrate basic herding management skills assessed by the judge. These events are organised by international and national cynological and sports organisations and by associations of sheep- and cattle-breeders. Usually sheep are to be herded; other animals including ducks or cows may also be used.
The Border Collie uses a direct stare at sheep, known as "the eye", to intimidate while herding at a trial.
Old Hemp, the "Father of the breed" in border collies
Adam Telfer and Old Hemp Memorial, Northumberland
A Border Collie at the sheepdog trials at Rural Hill Farm in Huntersville, North Carolina
A herding dog, also known as a stock dog or working dog, is a type of dog that either has been trained in herding livestock or belongs to one of the breeds that were developed for herding. A dog specifically trained to herd sheep is known as a sheep dog or shepherd dog.
An Australian Kelpie backing sheep.
A Koolie working with sheep.
Sheepdog transported with livestock in Fairlie, New Zealand
A nine-week-old Border Collie directing ducks.