2025 Catbird Farm Sheepdog Trial
We have changed our dates to September 19 - 22
This will allow for a warm up for the National Finals in Alturas, California... approximately 10 hours south from Cheney, Washington.
Depending upon entry numbers, we will try to be flexible with our trial format to allow as many dogs in as possible.
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We will also keep our trailer camping area open and allow folks to stay until it is time to head south.
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Rental of sheep for training may be available as well.



Lessons
Standard Lessons...
Working in either a group or private lessons, Dave will help you come together as a team. Working through the basics and nuance of communication with your dog as well as learning and reading stock will be a part of your growth.
Understanding fields, trial management, etiquette, and how terrain can affect a young dog will be addressed as you progress in skills and requirements. Every dog and handler is different so we will be sure to provide opportunities for learning specific to what you will need.
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Video Lessons...
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Structured a bit differently, this will be a 3 - 4 hour lesson held in one morning or afternoon.
~ We'll start with handler and dog working, with Dave on the camera and keeping quiet.
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~ We'll complete an in-depth review and discussion of the video and work completed.
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~ Back out to the field to work through the same exercises and activities worked on previously. This time with coaching and instruction and, again,being videoed.
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~ Lastly, back into video review looking for improvement and additional areas to continue working on.
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You will leave with all the video work on a flash drive