THREE - SHEEP TRIALS
Three - sheep trials are very popular in Australia. Like the name reveals the trial will be conducted working only 3 sheep through a set obstacle course. The competitors have up to 15 minutes to complete the course. Maximum score is 100 points if all obstacles completed. The dog crossing between the handler and the sheep will result in disqualification.
YARD DOG TRIALS
A yard dog trial is another version of this competitive sport. The focus is on yard work and is therefore being judged entirely different to a three - sheep trial. A total of 16 sheep are used in the competition, 8 sheep in a portable yard area and 8 sheep that are let out onto the arena where the dog will bring them to the yards. Competitors have 10 minutes to complete the course.
UTILITY TRIALS
Utility trials these days are probably the best "real test" for dogs as they have to prove themselves in both types of work. Utility trialling is a combination of paddock work and Yard work. The dog is required perform a cast around sheep and has to bring them back to the handler. The handler will then take them to the yards and work the yard course.Once completed the handler then moves out of the paddock and attempts the obstacle course.Competitors have 12 minutes to complete the course.