A local border collie named Sweep will represent Canada at the upcoming 2023 World Sheepdog Championships.
Trainer George Stambulik said he gives commands to Sweep using whistles.
“If it’s windy or raining, your voice doesn’t carry too well,” explained Stambulik.
Border collies from around the world will compete in Ireland to determine a champion through the five-day competition.
Stambulik says the dog’s attitude around the sheep is a major factor in determining their herding skills.
“It’s a matter of training. Border collies generally don’t have to be extremely close to the, they use their eye to almost intimidate the sheep. It gives them a kind of predator vibe,” said Stambulik. “The sheep will try to leave, and the dog uses the distance to control them.”
Stambulik and Sweep will leave for Ireland on August 27, ahead of the competition which runs from September 13 to 17.
