Driving livestock with a dog

Direction matters

Identify the start, destination and handler position before labelling work. A change of camera angle can make fetching and driving look deceptively similar.

Work versus scores

Driving is a practical skill and a component of some trial formats. Exact distances, gate requirements and scoring belong to the event’s rulebook.

Using this reference

Use this explanation to understand the term in context. For an entry decision or disputed result, check the current rules and the original event documentation; a glossary cannot replace the authority’s decision.

Distinguish a cross-drive

A sideways movement across the field can be discussed as a cross-drive where that terminology fits the course. Identify the relevant gates and handler position. Do not assume an edited clip shows the complete exercise or that every trial allocates its own separate cross-drive score.

Sources & further reading

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

• International Sheep Dog Society — current trial rules (opens in a new tab)

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