The first recorded Sheepdog trial rook place in the Welsh village of Bala in 1873. Early trials were arranged by the well to do gentry and focused mostly on the dogs’ speed and obedience. The dogs were often bred solely for trialing and were not working dogs found on the farm.
By the late 19th century the sport was moving towards the working dogs as a sport to demonstrate the skills of their shepherd handlers, as well as the dogs own ability. In 1906 the International Sheep Dog Society was formed by shepherds and farmers. The Collie is the recognised dog for handling sheep and we can provide a 1/12th scale Collie dog for your dolls house on our web shop.
Local trials are held annually, with the International Trials to be held in early September this year in North Wales. The World sheepdog trials are held every three years and 2008 sees the event being held in Wales after Ireland hosted the 2005 trials.
But sheepdog trialing is about more than just the dogs and their skills at handling the sheep. The day is a chance for old friends to meet and also view he many crafts on display including walking stick making, sheep shearing, butter making, farm machinery demonstrations and woodland skills to mention but a few. Also there are often trade stalls selling clothing, farm machinery and sheep shearing equipment.
In addition to the sheep dog we can provide 1/12th scale clothing, stick and wellies on our web shop, ready for your own miniature sheep dog trials.