The Lake District Guide

The Lake District Sheepdog Experience

Remember the TV show "One man and his dog"? Border Collies have been bred specially to work sheep in the Lake district since the early 1700's, so it's an age-old relationship between sheep and dog, but it's one which also requires the skills of the dog-handler. And that is where your challenge begins as you try the exciting, fun and rewarding experience of sheep dog handling. You'll first learn all about Border Collies and then try handling one of these friendly and fully trained sheepdogs in the field with real, live sheep (with the helpful advice of an expert handler!). This is a unique chance to try something truly different, a world away from the usual holiday attractions.

These sheepdog handling courses are suitable for absolute beginners, and are provided as one-to-one or group tuition. The farm has a team of working sheepdogs all of which are trained to work with members of the public. At the end of your instruction period, you'll work with your dog to move sheep around a course to test your skills - and get a certificate to prove you did it!

Working sheepdogs requires little physical effort but is a real challenge to both dog and handler. You'll use a variety of commands and then put your newly acquired skills into practice. Of course sheep don't always do as instructed and these moments might provide the greatest entertainment! Whatever happens you'll have a memorable time with the sheep, the farmers and the dogs.....