The Australian National Sheep Dog Trial Championships wrapped up a couple of weeks back, with Ramulam Prickles being crowned champion. The result was quite the upset for border collie enthusiasts, as this is the first time in 70(ish?) years that a kelpie has taken the top spot.

Nevertheless, our champion remains nonchalant, taking the first available opportunity to leave the award ceremony and seek out some more sheep.

This photo was taken immediately after the award presentation. It had been a long and busy week for everyone, especially for the dogs and handlers who had competed in the finals, but our champ still looks bright eyed and ready to go.

#DogsOfMastodon #DogsOfFedi #Dogs #WorkingDogs #SheepdogTrials #AustralianKelpie #Sheepdog #Photography

_The Evening Post_, 15 April 1925:
WAIRARAPA
(BY TELEGRAPH.—SPECIAL TO THE POST.)
MASTERTON, This Day.
…
It has been decided to re-establish the #Masterton Collie Club and to hold a two-day sheep dog trial this year. Messrs. W. Aitken, O. Nation, P. C. Taylor, A. Reed, G. Thompson, H. M‘Lennan, M. Wilton, K. Wilton, and G. W. Reed have been appointed a committee, with power to add [act?/co-opt?], to canvass for members and assistance. Mr. J. F. Hebenton is interim secretary. It was decided to approach the old club in regard to funds and officers.
…
https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/EP19250415.2.91

#OnThisDay #OTD #PapersPast #SheepDogs #SheepDogTrials #Clubs #Wairarapa #NewZealand

Back at the yard trials again, we have an Australian Kelpie called Boof.

It was a hot, dry day and the sheep were being particularly cantankerous, but Boof took it all in his stride. With confidence, and a relaxed style, he was able to read the sheep and preempt every move. Slowly and calmly he guided the sheep with far more considered and methodical movements than some of the younger dogs were able to muster.

I feel this photo captures some of that easy-going and confident nature; no fear, no aggression, just getting the job done.

#DogsOfFedi #DogsOfMastodon #Dogs #WorkingDogs #Photography #Sheep #SheepdogTrials #AustralianKelpie #Sheepdog

I have so many photos of dogs and sheep running around a field, it's very hard to choose my favourites to upload without my feed getting very 'samey'. To mix it up a bit I thought it might be nice to post a few shots that focus on the sheep.

This shot was taken at the local show. It was a brilliant sunny day which gave the sheep a great shine.

#SheepOfMastodon #Sheep #SheepdogTrials #Photography

This is Lulu, a competitor in a recent yard dog trial. I really love this shot showing her running across the sheep. These dogs have such personality and it really comes out when they're working.

Lulu was excited, alert and energetic, while remaining calm and under control. I think this can really be seen in the attitude of the sheep who are completely nonplussed by her running along their backs.

#Dogs #DogsOfMastodon #SheepDogs #Sheep #SheepdogTrials #WorkingDogs #Photography