For dog owners who want to explore their canine’s natural instincts, a herding instinct test offers a structured and fascinating way to see if a dog has the drive and ability to work livestock. Whether your dog is a Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Shetland Sheepdog, or another herding breed, this test provides an opportunity to assess their natural herding tendencies in a controlled environment. Even if you don’t plan to train your dog for farm work or competition, watching a herding breed engage with livestock can be an exciting and educational experience.
What is a Herding Instinct Test?
A herding instinct test is designed to evaluate whether a dog has the natural ability to control livestock through movement and body positioning. Typically conducted by experienced evaluators from organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) and American Herding Breed Association (AHBA), these tests introduce a dog to livestock—usually sheep, ducks, or cattle—and assess their response.
The purpose of the test isn’t to determine how well-trained a dog is but rather to see how they naturally interact with livestock. Some dogs immediately show confidence and control, while others may need more time or exposure to build their herding instincts. The test provides a glimpse into a dog’s potential and serves as a starting point for further herding training.
What Happens During a Herding Instinct Test?
1. Arrival and Check-In
Upon arrival at the testing facility, you will check in with the evaluator and provide basic information about your dog, including their call name and any prior exposure to livestock. This honesty helps the evaluator determine the best way to introduce your dog to the test.
Your dog should be calm and on a leash when entering the testing area. Spectators are typically welcome, but it’s important to maintain a quiet, respectful atmosphere to avoid startling the animals.
2. Entering the Stock Pen
When your dog’s name is called, you’ll meet the evaluator at the gate of the stock pen. The evaluator may instruct you to keep your dog on a short leash or a long line at first, depending on their energy level and responsiveness. Some dogs need more guidance, while others can be allowed more freedom once their initial reaction is assessed.
If your dog remains calm and focused, the evaluator may allow them to drag the leash or remove it altogether to see how they interact naturally.
3. Evaluating Natural Herding Behavior
The Ideal Response
In an ideal scenario, a dog with strong herding instincts will:
- Approach the flock calmly and confidently.
- Circle wide around the sheep rather than running directly at them.
- Keep the livestock together, guiding them toward the handler rather than scattering them.
- Respond to guidance from the evaluator or handler by adjusting their speed and approach.
These dogs will often earn high praise from the evaluator, and some may even display such natural talent that they receive offers for further training or participation in herding events.
Less Controlled but Still Promising
Most dogs don’t exhibit perfect herding behavior in their first test. Many enthusiastic young dogs will:
- Rush excitedly toward the livestock without circling properly.
- Chase rather than guide, treating the test as a game rather than controlled work.
- Move too closely, startling the livestock or causing them to scatter.
Even if a dog is overly excited, they may still earn a passing score if they show the drive and potential to work under guidance. Handlers can help by using commands like “out” or “get back” to keep their dogs from getting too close. Many high-drive herding dogs require training to refine their instincts into controlled, useful behaviors.
Alternative Herding Reactions
Some dogs react to livestock in unique ways that may or may not earn them a passing score:
- The Quiet Observer: Some dogs approach the livestock slowly, stand at a distance, and watch rather than act. These dogs recognize their role but may need encouragement to engage.
- The Fence Line Patrol: Some dogs instinctively move along the open side of the flock to keep them together. This behavior is useful in tending-style herding but may not be recognized in all herding instinct tests.
- The Overwhelmed Dog: Some dogs may hesitate, show disinterest, or appear unsure. If a dog lacks confidence or drive, they may need multiple exposures to livestock before their instincts emerge.
Each of these responses tells the evaluator something about the dog’s potential. Dogs that don’t pass may still be trainable with time, exposure, and patience.
Handler Responsibilities During the Instinct Test
As a participant, your role in the herding instinct test is to support your dog while following the evaluator’s instructions. The test should be conducted humanely and respectfully, both for the livestock and the dog.
Handlers may be asked to:
- Guide the dog into the pen while keeping them calm.
- Stop the dog if they become overly excited or aggressive.
- Give verbal or hand cues if the evaluator believes the dog will respond.
- Assist the dog in navigating the test, especially if they are hesitant or overly enthusiastic.
The evaluator may handle the first part of the test independently if you are unfamiliar with livestock handling. This is a great opportunity to observe and learn about how dogs interact with livestock in a structured environment.
Passing the Herding Instinct Test
Dogs that demonstrate natural herding ability will receive a Herding Instinct Certificate (HIC), which acknowledges their potential as a working dog. Passing the test does not require perfection — many dogs earn their certificate with enthusiastic but rough-around-the-edges performances.
For those interested in competitive herding, a passing score is the first step toward formal training and participation in AKC Herding Trials or AHBA herding events.
What If My Dog Doesn’t Pass?
Not all dogs will pass the herding instinct test, and that’s okay! A failing score simply means the dog either:
- Lacks strong herding drive.
- Needs more exposure to livestock.
- Was too excitable or uncontrolled to demonstrate working ability.
A dog that doesn’t pass may still be able to participate in herding training classes, where they can develop confidence and refine their skills over time.
How old should my dog be for a herding instinct test?
Most tests accept dogs as young as 6 months old. However, younger dogs may need more patience and guidance during their first exposure.
Can mixed-breed dogs take a herding instinct test?
Yes! While herding breeds tend to excel, many organizations allow mixed breeds to participate and earn certificates.
Do I need prior herding experience to enter my dog?
No experience is necessary. The evaluator will guide you and your dog through the process.
Do I need prior herding experience to enter my dog?
No experience is necessary. The evaluator will guide you and your dog through the process.
What should I bring to the test?
- A leash and collar.
- Water for you and your dog.
- A calm, positive attitude.
What’s the next step if my dog passes?
If your dog earns their Herding Instinct Certificate (HIC), you may want to explore formal herding training to refine their skills.
