Mustering: gathering stock across a property

Plan around the property

Map paddocks, boundaries, water points and the intended destination before discussing the dog’s role. Terrain and visibility affect what a handler can safely observe and communicate. The job should account for both the stock and the dog’s capacity.

Ask for relevant evidence

When assessing a dog, ask for examples on comparable stock and country. A close-yard demonstration cannot establish ability to gather widely spread animals. Likewise, a wide cast does not show competence through a difficult gateway.

Manage the workload

Record work duration and opportunities for rest, water and transport. Seek individual veterinary advice about conditioning for sustained work. A dog that can complete one demonstration may still need a gradual introduction to a new property’s routine.

Handover to the next task

Gathering is only part of the job. Ask what happens when the mob reaches a lane or yard and whether another dog or handler takes over. A useful assessment follows the work across those transitions, because the position that gathers stock effectively may need to change when space narrows.

Sources & further reading

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

• Working Kelpie Council — National Kelpie Field Trial judging guidelines (opens in a new tab)

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