A shepherd without a dog is just another person in the field.
This is one of my favourite quotes of all time, probably because the relationship with my dogs is one of my favourite things about my job.
I could be accused of looking at this in a very over-romanticised way, however I love that the border collie, the most trusted sheepdog there is, has stood the ultimate test of time.
Whilst this industry has seen dramatic changes and progression in technology, science, machinery, and overall farming systems, one thing that is completely irreplaceable is our loyal sheep dog, even tens of thousands of years later.
No technology or equipment could ever replicate or replace the natural instincts of a good dog. Quite frankly, I think that is simply amazing.
When I first started in the industry I would look on at established shepherds with so much admiration as I sat for hours and watched them both effortlessly move sheep across a field, working seamlessly together, reading each other’s thoughts and movements without a single word uttered.
It is a connection that is simply moving and beautiful to witness.
To have a relationship like that was my ultimate goal, and now as I write this I have four incredible dogs who I’m lucky to work with everyday (shout out to Derek Scrimgeour here, he taught me everything I know).
One of the first things I learnt was the importance of respect between both you and your dog, and inevitably with respect comes trust, which is vital.
A sheepdog isn’t just another tool on the farm that you get out to use and then shut away and forget about till next time, and those that are I feel incredibly sorry for.
We are the centre of our dogs’ world, and they only deserve the same loyalty back. It really is a symbiotic relationship when it comes to a shepherd and their dog, and it shouldn’t go forgotten that respect and trust can be broken far quicker than it is earned and by both parties.
I truly believe if you want to work well together then it takes both commitment and consistency to build a solid relationship and you must have the mindset that they are your team-mate, not a soulless piece of machinery.
My dogs come everywhere with me, when I go to work the sheep they are by my side, when I go for a pint in the local pub they lie beneath my feet, when I go on adventures they are sat on my paddle board or walking beside me.
We have work time, and we have play time. After a hard day’s work there is always a place beside the fire for them and an extra cuddle to thank them for their graft and commitment.
My dogs are the centre of my life and my work, it’s their incredible instincts that make every day 100 per cent easier, and it’s those same instincts that have saved the day, I hate to think how many times.
I’ll be incredibly honest, without my dogs I am just another person in the field, doing a below average job at gathering a flock of sheep.
To me, to be a shepherd is to work in harmony (most the time) with your dog to tend and care for your sheep.
I’m not too proud to admit that I couldn’t do this job without them but also, I would never ever want to either.
Working with them is my favourite thing about this way of life, it can be testing, and trying but I’m yet to find a more rewarding job.
They are my best friends.
