AKC Herding Instinct Test: Understanding Herding Instinct in Dogs

The AKC Herding Instinct Test is a way to gauge a dog's natural herding ability, but what exactly is herding instinct in dogs? Herding instinct is an innate behavior that drives dogs to gather and move other animals, like sheep, cattle, or even people.

This instinct is deeply rooted in a dog's breed history and genetic makeup. For example, breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds have been bred for centuries to herd livestock.

The test is designed to assess a dog's ability to respond to herding cues and work with a handler. It's not just about chasing after animals, but about understanding and following commands to move them in a specific direction.

During the test, dogs are presented with a series of exercises that evaluate their herding ability, including the ability to move sheep or other animals in a controlled environment.

Additional reading: Sheep Herding Dog Breeds

The AKC Herding Instinct Test is a non-competitive pass/fail format that evaluates a dog's basic instinct and trainability.

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This test is a great way to introduce your dog to herding work, and it's not necessary for them to have any prior training. The test is conducted within a fenced arena and involves using livestock such as ducks, sheep, or cattle.

During the test, your dog will need to demonstrate their ability to move and control livestock by fetching or driving, and be sufficiently trained to work at the proper balance point to move the stock forward on the course.

The AKC Herding Instinct Test is a great way to gauge your dog's potential in herding and to see if they have the instinct to work with livestock.

If you decide to compete, your dog will need to have training and prior exposure to move and control livestock before entering a trial.

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Herding Instinct in Dogs is a natural ability that can't be taught, it must be demonstrated. Some breeds, such as herding breeds, Rottweilers, Samoyeds, Standard and Giant Schnauzers, Pyrenean Shepherds, Swedish Vallhunds, Norwegian Buhunds, and Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, are naturally inclined to herd.

The Herding Instinct Test (HIT) is a simple test to determine if your dog has this instinct. Your dog needs no training before entering this test. The test is conducted in an arena with sheep, and the judge evaluates your dog's ability to move and control livestock by fetching or driving.

To prepare for the HIT, you can start by getting your puppy to chase things and then stop on command. This will help you establish rules and boundaries in play. Take your young dog to a facility where they can get used to listening to you while around livestock and pens.

The Instinct Test is a non-competitive test, but it's a great way to gauge your dog's basic instinct and trainability. The test is designed to measure your dog's ability to move and control livestock, and it's a great way to introduce them to the world of herding.

Here are some breeds that are eligible to participate in Herding Tests and Trials:

Remember, the key to developing your dog's herding instinct is to own the game and establish clear rules and boundaries. With patience and practice, you can help your dog develop this natural ability.