PARTNER INTERVIEW: NIJ VYAS SHEEPDOG TRAINING

We absolutely love dogs here at Experience Days, so we couldn't wait to hear all about this experience!

Nij Vyas Sheepdog Training is one of our most unique yet highly popular experiences. Learn how Nij and his dogs became the perfect team and whether you have what it takes to shepherd a flock! 

Read on to see what this experience is all about...

1. What encouraged you to take up sheepdog training?

I had a chance meeting with a farmer in North Wales in 1987 when I got my first Border Collie, and he encouraged me to work my dog and it changed my life.

2. Talk us through a typical day of sheepdog training

I run a flock of some 250 Scottish Blackface ewes and some rare breed Hebridean sheep so they need shepherding daily. This gives me a chance to work the dogs on a daily basis which they love. I can have two to three clients daily and use my dogs to keep the sheep in the right place. Sometimes people use my dogs to learn aspects of training. During the breaks I usually train my dogs also so clients can learn by watching me work the dogs. I also undertake training with dogs which worry sheep as well as with pet dogs. I also offer behaviour consultations. Consequently, my work and experience is pretty varied. 

3. How long does it take on average to train a sheepdog?

To train a dog for simple farming tasks takes three to four months. Whilst training a dog, to trials standard, and to manage all tasks on the farm can take up to a year or more. Patience is key and not putting undue pressure on young dogs. 

4. Are the sheepdogs your own or from elsewhere? 

Most of my dogs are home bred but I have just bought a puppy for the first time since 1994.

5. What tips would you give to an aspiring trainer? 

To be calm and patient, and to have a sense of humour. To focus on the positive elements and be understanding when their dogs make mistakes, or indeed if they make mistakes. Mistakes offer both the handler and dog with opportunities to learn and improve. 

6. Can anyone become a sheepdog trainer? 

Not really. It requires dedication, knowledge and a vast amount of experience. They also need all of the above. 

7. Introduce us to your current sheepdogs!

Mac – 12.5 years - retired from competition but still works on the farm.

Jake – 8 years  - Recovering from a spinal stroke and working his way back to fitness. England Team member.

Todd – 6 years – Strong and keen dog, very good on the hill. World Sheepdog Trials Winner as part of the England Team 2017.

Mist – 6 years – superb flock dog and tremendous on the hill. Very biddable but naughty which I like. Current Midshires champion. 

Cody – 3.5 years – Best dog I have had and most consistent. Current UK nursery champion.

Lara – 4 months old – showing great promise and is a fast and brave dog, fearless.