Workplace planning around stock dogs

Map the operation

Identify the stock movement, people involved, gates, yards, vehicles and where the dog-and-handler team will work. Include contractors and visitors who may not understand the commands or intended route. Ask the responsible workplace person to coordinate the plan rather than assuming every experienced worker has the same interpretation.

Use the relevant safety guidance

Safe Work Australia identifies serious risks associated with working with animals, including livestock unpredictability. Consult its agriculture guidance and the applicable workplace regulator for the actual operation. This page is an organisational prompt and should not be treated as a complete risk assessment or as legal advice for every workplace.

Agree communication

Before starting, clarify who directs the work, how a stop is communicated and where others should stand or wait. Explain what to do if livestock or a dog moves unexpectedly. Keep distractions, photography and visitor movement under the same coordinated plan so the handler is not trying to manage an unannounced activity while working stock.

Review changes

Reassess when the group, stock, terrain or task changes, particularly when introducing a new dog or handler. Record lessons from near misses and ask competent people to resolve hazards. A dog’s reputation or prior success should not be used as evidence that the layout, staffing and procedure are suitable for a different operation.

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• Safe Work Australia: Working with animals (opens in a new tab)

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