Will my herding breed dog like herding sheep?
Probably! While not every dog with herding breed heritage is interested in controlling livestock, most show quite a bit of interest. Even mild-mannered dogs tend to light up when they realize they have the power to make the sheep move.
What breeds are allowed to participate?
On the Lamb offers training to all herding breeds, and we are happy to let your golden retriever, poodle, or chihuahua try herding sheep! While you'll see plenty of border collies and Aussies around, we regularly see non-herding dogs and mixed breeds too. However, for the safety of the sheep, there are a few breeds we do not typically allow. Bulldogs, pit bulls, Dogo Argentinos, bullmastiffs, bull terriers, and similar breeds were developed for the purpose of subduing livestock or wild game, and can inflict severe injury when following their instinctive drives. We also do not allow dogs that have been trained in personal protection, IPO, or bitesports for safety reasons.
Is my dog too old or too young for an instinct test?
We can test your pup as soon as they have received all of their vaccinations, but many aren't really ready until five or six months. We think six months is a great age to begin herding lessons. Senior dogs may not have the stamina to herd for very long, but we are happy to let them take plenty of breaks. They don't ever outgrow their desire to move sheep.
What do I need to bring to our first lesson?
Just bring your dog and yourself, and wear closed-toe shoes. We have plenty of water and shady places to sit. We do not have shaded parking. You can print out and sign the site waiver before you get here, but we have extra copies in case you forget. Please pre-pay for your first lesson via PayPal.
Does my dog need to have all the vaccinations listed on the waiver?
Most of the vaccinations on the waiver are recommended, but not all are mandatory. We do have coyotes, raccoons, snakes, and other wildlife in the area, as well as plenty of dogs from all over the country, so most regular visitors have all the recommended vaccinations. Please have your dog's DHLP-P, rabies, and bordetella vaccinations up to date before visiting. If you don't vaccinate, titer test results are also acceptable. Corona and rattlesnake vaccinations are optional.
Do I have to have an appointment, or can I just come out and visit?
On the Lamb Ranch is a private ranch, and guests do need to make an appointment before visiting.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book online and see what spots are available on the calendar 24 hours a day, 7 days a week here on the website! We ask that new clients use PayPal to prepay for their first appointment.