The objective of the course it to test the skill sets required for supervised grazing management and stock movement by means of boundary work. This may include gate work, straight and curving roadwork, trailer loading/ unloading and various other elements. The course must have perimeter fencing from which the stock cannot escape. The course should include a clearly marked road or path for the stock to traverse. The road should be delineated by a furrow, sawdust, road base, mowed path, visible flat markers on the ground or a combination of the above. A minimum of 65% of the roads must have borders or furrows on both sides and be off the fence line with the closest furrow/boundary being a minimum of 5 feet (or more) from a fence, in all levels. Maximum distance on the fence line with one border using the fence as a second boundary is 35% of the course in all levels. All Boundary types and where they are located on the course (if multiple types are used) must be listed in the premium and course diagram. Titles may be earned at each level and on each stock with qualifying legs under two different judges. Once you have obtained a leg in a higher level you may not move back down to run in a lower level on the same stock. (However, you may run Level III goats and also run Level I sheep.)
Boundary Dogs work all areas of the flock – at the front to hold the stock off of obstacles or slow them down – on the side acting as a living wall/fence – moving up and down the full length of the flock – and in the back if needed to pick up a straggler in the flock. The Boundary Dog does not stay in one place while managing the livestock, but rather moves as it sees necessary to oversee the flock and keep the flock moving at the pace set by the handler.
Requirements: A minimum of 15 sheep, goats, or a mixed flock of both must be used for each run. Using more livestock is preferred, as it gives the dog more work. Each head of livestock may only be run 6 times per day unless the stock is under 50 lbs in which case it can only run 4 times per day. Water should be kept in the pen at all times. Stock should be appropriately conditioned to a course where there will be a lot of walking, accustomed to moving vehicles and familiar with the course elements (not necessarily in run order). The entire group should be practiced with working as a cohesive flock and following a shepherd. Livestock should be accustomed to being worked by many types of dogs and should be people oriented. Light or flighty stock are not desirable. In between runs, if the stock are breathing heavily or panting or overly stressed, then breaks are required. The judge and/or stock handler will make the final determination on how long the stock should rest. Judges may not judge more than 8 hours per day not including rest or lunch breaks. Runs should be no longer than 30 minutes in Level I, 35 minutes in Level II, and 40 minutes in Level III. Time may be extended by no more than 5 minutes per level at the discretion of the judge for longer courses. Handlers may carry only a standard herding crook or stock stick (wood, fiberglass or aluminum). Dogs must wear standard flat buckle or snap collar or may run without a collar. Handlers should keep the leash/lead with them at all times. There should be a 3 to 5 minute rest period between runs to allow the stock to get water and to allow the handler to bring water for their dog to the stationary graze before their run, if they so choose. Before submitting courses to the Boundary Course Coordinator, the course should be run with a level appropriate dog and handler to ensure expected course times and flow.
Course Layout: The Boundary Trial Dog course is a walking and grazing course. The total course distance should be a minimum of 300 yards and maximum of 1000 yards. The course should flow in a logical order, be manageable for young dogs, and may incorporate natural obstacles and terrain. Roads may be traversed repeatedly if needed to meet the yardage requirement. Gates must be left as they are found – a closed gate should be opened to allow the stock to pass and closed behind the handler, once the stock, dog and handler have cleared the gate. A hold off each gate should be attempted for the safety of the handler. Judges shall notify handlers if they miss a course element before they move on to the next element. Stock for all courses must not be able to escape the confines of the course they are running. Cars and trailers and other vehicles should be blocked so that stock nor dogs can access or damage property that may be on the course. Animal, property and exhibitor safety should be of paramount importance in designing and executing and running these Boundary courses. Only the stock, the dog, the handler, the judge and a scribe (that the stock is not familiar with) may be on the BTD course. Judges and scribes must stay back at a discreet distance in order to avoid being an additional draw to the stock. There will be no set out or pick up dogs allowed on the course at any time except once a run has been called and the exhibitor has leashed up their dog and is exiting.
A course diagram as well as a written description must be provided, specifying the placement of obstacles, directions of the course, as well as distances and measurements to the Boundary Course Coordinator prior to sanctioning. Judges, Sponsors and exhibitors will be asked to give feedback after the trials to the Boundary Course Coordinator about flow, what went well, what could be improved and suggestions to make the courses better. Comments and suggestions will be kept anonymous when being shared with trial sponsors. Score sheets should flow in the order of the course elements with the exception of Roadwork/ General Behavior which should be listed next to last with the Advanced Level III element being last on the score sheet.
Optional course elements shall be listed in the premium and course maps shall be provided to exhibitors and posted on the website. Boundary markers/types must be listed in the premium. Out of bounds should be listed on the premium as well as any hazards that may require protective gear. Course maps, descriptions and any questions on optional elements should be sent to the Boundary Course Coordinator for approval prior to sending the final course in for sanctioning.
Bitches in heat or coming in/going of heat shall be declared to the judge, the trial secretary and the other exhibitors. Run order will not change due to bitches in heat.
If the dog eliminates on course, handlers must pick up after their dogs when their run is complete. Handlers may run their bitches in heat in panties with pads if they so desire.
Judges should physically walk the course to check for hazards for dogs, stock and handlers before judging and should ask about heavy draws or anything that exhibitors should be aware of for safety. The course director and the judge are to provide time before the start of the trial to have a general handlers meeting and walk the course in the order of the flow of the course elements and obstacles, pointing out the draws and any other information that may help the handlers execute the course with their dog. Handlers at all levels should attend the meeting. Judges may also have another brief handlers meeting prior to the start of Levels II & I. The course director will conduct the handlers meeting to explain the course and the judge should tell the exhibitors what they are looking for while judging and different ways they might execute certain elements. Time will also be given to answer questions. All questions should be asked and answered at the general handlers meeting when all exhibitors are present, so all handlers hear all the questions and answers.
1) Night Pen – (Mandatory element) – 10 Pts
2) Stationary Graze – (Mandatory element) – 15 Pts
3) Small Tractor/4-Wheeler/ATV/Lawn Mower/Golf Cart Pass – (Mandatory element) – 10 Pts
4) Moving Graze (Mandatory element) – 10 pts
5) Curving Paths (Incorporating both S and U-shaped Path) OR Hay/Grain Feeder Obstacle (Select 1) – 10 Pts (Optional Element)
6) Bridge OR Trailer Load and Unload (Select 1) – 10 Pts (Optional Element)
7) Repen – (Mandatory element) – 10 Pts
8) General/Behavior/Roadwork (Mandatory element) – 15 Pts
9) Advanced Elements (Level III only, Select 1) – 10 Pts
a) Flock examination – Inspection for stock soundness at the Night Pen
OR
b) Barrier on the path
Time starts when the gate is opened to the night pen and time ends when the livestock are returned to the night pen and the gate is closed.
The handler and dog team must check in with the judge prior to entering the course. The handler and dog are judged from the moment they enter the gate to the course before their run begins until they leave the course through the exit gate.
Level I – 30 minutes maximum
Level II – 35 minutes maximum
Level III – 40 minutes maximum
Course Layout – minimum 300 yards
maximum 1000 yards
Time may be extended by no more than 5 minutes per level at the discretion of the judge for longer courses.
Livestock – minimum of 15 head of sheep, goats or mixed flock. Larger numbers of livestock are preferred.
Obstacles and or panel components in the Boundary Trial Dog course should be at least 4 feet tall. Minimum distance between elements on the course is 50 feet.
Ties will be broken by higher level first then by the best score on the roadwork and then the best score on the stationary graze and then by overall time.
1. Night Pen – Mandatory – 10 pts:
Objective: To take the flock from the pen to begin their grazing journey. The dog may go around the pen to familiarize themselves with the flock before taking the stock from the pen if possible. The leash is removed prior to opening the gate. Time starts when the gate is opened. The dog must prevent the escape of stock from the pen as the gate is opened. The dog may go into the pen or stay on the outside of the pen. There is no penalty for the dog not entering the pen if it will result in a calmer exit from the pen. Once the stock are removed from the pen, the handler must close the gate behind them after the stock and dog have exited the pen. If upon exiting, the stock escape, then they are to be brought back to the pen to start the course.
Requirements: The gate on the pen must be safe and easy for handlers to open. The gate must have a solid frame and the handle must be easy to latch and unlatch with one hand. The gate should accommodate the flock safely. Water must accessible in the night pen for the livestock. Minimum size of 12 X 12 feet for 15 head or up to 48 X 48 feet for much larger flocks
2. Stationary Graze – Mandatory – 15 pts:
Objective: To guide the flock into a designated grazing area and allow the stock to graze for 4-12 minutes.
Level I – 4-6 minutes
Level II – 7-9 minutes
Level III – 10-12 minutes
Requirements: Grazing area including the corners will be clearly marked. Minimum size shall be 50 feet X 100 feet. If using the minimum amount of stock and the facility has limited area, considerations on size may be given on a case by case basis by contacting the AHBA Boundary Course Coordinator, prior to sanctioning.
The scoring will be based on the dog’s ability to keep the flock relaxed and calmly grazing within the designated area. Dogs with initiative and independence working the graze should score higher than a dog that needs multiple commands. Dogs may not enter the graze without penalty except when gathering livestock to continue on the course. Level I and Level II handlers should stay within a crooks length of the inside or outside edge of the border or they can alternate. Level III handlers should stay a crooks length on the inside of the border at all times during the graze. The dog should monitor the graze on its own initiative to keep the flock within the designated graze. Graze time begins when the handler and flock enter the graze.
If grazing conditions are inadequate, then a thin layer of forage must be spread evenly, both inside and outside the graze, to mimic natural grazing conditions prior to the start of each run. Nothing else is to be present during the run. No large clumps of forage or bales of hay may be present in the graze.
Water may be provided for the dog by the handler at the stationary graze. The handler is responsible to bring water for their dog in a bowl or bucket and must place it on the border of the graze before their run starts. The handler will remove the bucket of water when their run is completed after repenning the stock. Judges shall take into account weather conditions for stock and handler in determining graze times. All handlers within a level must have identical graze times.
3. Small Tractor/4 Wheeler/ATV/Lawn Mower/Golf Cart Pass – Mandatory – 10 Pts:
Objective: To navigate the flock through a simulated traffic area where the dog has to protect the flock from a vehicle. The dog should move the entire flock off the road to the right as the vehicle passes. The handler OR the dog may work the side closest to the vehicle during the pass. The dog should work the front or the side thus helping to keep the flock protected. The flock is treated like a slow moving vehicle on the road. The vehicle travels on the side of the road it normally would per regular USA driving rules. On a pass with the vehicle coming up from the rear, the vehicle comes up behind the flock and as the flock is moving off the road to the right, the vehicle should move into the left lane as it would to pass a slow moving car or farm machinery on the road. The vehicle pass should begin far enough back to not stress the livestock, dog or handler. It is preferred that an un-entered exhibitor be the driver for all levels; however, if there are not enough volunteers, then an exhibitor may be used as the driver in Level II and Level III as long as they do not drive in the level in which they are competing. Only the driver is allowed in the vehicle.
Requirements: Vehicle must move at no more than 4 mph to remain safe for the dog, stock, and handler. The vehicle pass must happen in an area with an obviously marked boundary. The driver of the vehicle must have clear visibility of the dog, the handler and the entire flock during the vehicle pass.
Level I – stationary vehicle
Level II – 1 pass of the vehicle from the front or the rear. There must be 200 feet allowed for the vehicle pass at Level II before any other element or obstacle
Level III – 2 passes. The passes can be from both directions or 2 passes in the same direction. These vehicle passes do not need to be on the same road or same section of the road for Level III. There must be 400 to 500 feet allowed for the vehicle pass at Level III if both passes are on the same road: otherwise, there will be a minimum of 200 feet allowed for the pass on each separate road before any other element or obstacle
4. Moving Graze – Mandatory – 10 pts:
Objective: To show that the dog can help move the livestock through a designated strip/median graze. Level II has handler assisted stops and turn of the stock at the top of the graze which will reverse the direction of grazing. At Level III – the dog must be sent and placed at the top of the graze to reverse the direction of grazing. Dog and stock and handler should traverse the entire moving graze as a group with forward motion. The handler will stay on the inside boundary of the moving graze at all levels unless assisting with the turn of the flock at Level II. The dog may work the same side or the opposite side as necessary to keep the flock contained in the moving graze. Due to differing graze conditions in any given area, this will necessitate slightly speeding up and slowing down to keep forage heights as even as possible. A marker on both sides of the moving graze at 25 feet from the top should be placed to show the judge and exhibitors where the minimum distance of the send must happen for Level III.
If grazing conditions are inadequate, then a thin layer of forage must be spread evenly, both inside and outside the graze, to mimic natural grazing conditions prior to the start of each run. Nothing else is to be present during the run. No large clumps of forage or bales of hay may be present in the graze.
Level I – no reversal of grazing direction. The handler, dog, and livestock move through the graze in one direction only.
Level II – The handler may (but does not have to) walk with the dog to the top/far end of the moving graze and both may walk in at the top to reverse the direction of the flock. The turn of the flock should include 3 stops .The 3rd stop should cause the flock to reverse their grazing direction. The dog may be stopped in a sit, stand or a down. After reversing the direction of the flock, the dog may use any border to exit the moving graze. The handler moves back to the side of the graze on the inside border directing the flock. The livestock and handler will exit the moving graze on the same border that they originally entered.
Level III – Upon nearing the top/far end of the Moving Graze on the first pass, the handler shall notify the judge before sending the dog to the top/far end for the placement to turn the flock. If the handler fails to notify the judge that they are doing the placement, the judge shall remind the handler of this element. The handler shall not be within 25 feet of the top/far end of the moving graze. A “send” shall be at least 25 feet from where the dog is sent from and around one corner of the graze. The placement/turn of the flock must include 3 stops. The 3rd stop should cause the flock to reverse their grazing direction. The dog may be stopped in a sit, stand or a down. After reversing the direction of the flock, the dog may use any border to exit the moving graze. The dog will return to the outside border of the moving graze. The handler moves back to the side of the graze on the inside border directing the flock. The livestock and handler will exit the moving graze on the same border that they originally entered.
Requirement: Minimum size: 35 feet by 125 feet – may be larger and shall have an elongated rectangular shape such as a median in the road would have.
5. Curving Paths -Incorporating BOTH S and U shaped or Hay/Grain Feeder Obstacle – Optional Element – Select 1 – 10 pts:
Curving Paths – Incorporating both S and U shape:
Objective: Roads may be comprised of various angles for turns and not just a 90 degree turn on all of the roads. Game trails and switchbacks are a regular part of getting livestock to and from locations to graze, especially in areas that may be harder to access. This part of the movement of the stock shows that the dog can manage the stock even when the road conditions are not ideal, and may not be as clearly delineated. The object is not to fetch through the S or U shapes but rather to allow the dog to work all sides as may be necessary to navigate the element and still keep the stock on the road and within the boundary. This may require some moving picks, crossing in the front and rear of the flock as well as the dog maintaining hard borders to keep the stock on the road. The dog should be able to hold the stock within the border of the road even if the pathway is irregular.
Requirements: Curving Paths should be a minimum of 200 feet (minimum of 100 ft for Levels I and II). The width of the S and U shape should be the same width as the road. There must be a visible boundary on this section of the road to allow the dog to work the curving border.
OR
Hay/Grain Feeder Obstacle:
Objective: To move the flock past an obstacle which simulates leading the livestock past a farm stand where they should not be sampling the wares.
Requirements: Must be a feeder that is used to feed the livestock
Level I and II – feeder filled with hay
Level III – feeder filled with hay and grain or produce that the stock will desire
The dog may have to work up and down the flock moving them off of the feeder if the stock manage to get past the dog to the feeder. The handler may have to assist the dog, without penalty, in getting the livestock off of the feeder and back on course.
6. Bridge or Trailer Load/Unload – Optional Element – Select 1 – 10 pts:
Bridge:
Objective: To guide the flock over a bridge. The dog must guard a wing of the bridge while the flock crosses the bridge. The dog may guard the wing in a sit, down or stand as the dog sees fit. The dog should follow the livestock over the bridge once the flock has crossed.
Requirements: The bridge should be stable and safe. Bridge must be at least 12 feet long including the wings on both ends and must have a solid floor. A solid surface such as a piece of plywood, pavers, stall mat or similar, on the ground, is sufficient for flooring. Flooring does not need to cover the wing areas. The width of the bridge should be the width of the road. The height of the panels and the wings for the bridge should be at least 4 feet tall. The bridge flooring type must be listed in the premium.
Level I & II – no distraction. The dog guards the most dangerous/draw wing of the bridge while the handler leads the flock over the bridge.
Level III – Bridge with Distraction or Bridge with Drive. This option must be listed in the premium and course map.
Level III (Option 1) – Bridge with Distraction. The distraction for the bridge needs to be something that will not spook the livestock. The livestock should be exposed minimally to the distraction prior to trialing. Suggested distractions: Someone approaching the flock asking a question during the crossing (cannot be the main livestock feeder or someone the stock is very familiar with) – a flag moving – something simulating an off contact distraction for the dog.
OR
Level III (Option 2) – Bridge with Drive. Handler must stay at the entrance of the plane of the bridge and dog will drive/push stock across. The drive ends and the handler may leave the opening of the bridge after all of the stock have been driven 20 feet past the exit of the bridge. If the stock escape, the dog may be sent to cover the escape of the flock. Markers on the ground shall indicate where the drive ends.
OR
Trailer Load and Unload:
Objective: To guide the flock into and out of the trailer. The trailer element will simulate being loaded/unloaded in preparation to take the flock to graze at a different location. As the stock are approaching the trailer, the handler will open the trailer door and once the livestock are loaded, then the trailer door is closed (not necessarily latched). There is a pause and the handler will open the door and then begin to unload the stock from the trailer. The trailer should be able to easily accommodate the group of stock for the loading/unloading process.
Requirements: The trailer should be stable and safe for the flock, the dog, and the handler. There shall be a 6 foot leash/rope attached to the handle of the back trailer door. The trailer must be out in the open but may have an extra wing attached to facilitate loading.
Level: I – The handler may enter the trailer to help the dog to load and unload the flock
Level II – The handler may not enter the trailer but may play an active role in helping to load and unload by moving around the outside of the trailer directing the dog as needed.
Level III – The handler may not enter the trailer and once they have opened the trailer door, they must hold onto the rope/leash attached to the handle of the trailer door while the stock are loaded. The door is then closed. The handler may still direct the dog for loading and unloading.
Upon unloading- at all levels – if there is a side door entry to the trailer – at the handlers option – they may leave the back door open – walk with the dog to the side door and push the stock out the back from the side door. The side door must be closed before going to close the back door of the trailer. The dog stays with the handler at all levels until the dog is released to cover the movement of the stock. Once all the stock are unloaded, the trailer door is closed and latched.
7. Repen – Mandatory – 10 pts:
Objective: To guide the flock back into the Night Pen. The handler must attempt a hold off of the gate on the repen while opening the gate. The handler may take a few steps into the pen to help repen the stock. Time ends when the Night Pen gate is closed. The dog is leashed to leave the course. The handler must retrieve their water from the graze if they chose to place water in the stationary graze for their run, and pick up after their dog if they eliminated on course during their run.
Requirements: The pen should be the same Night Pen where the run started.
8. Roadwork/General Behavior – Mandatory – 15 pts:
Objective: To connect the elements and obstacles on the course, and allow for scoring the movement of the stock throughout the course in between the elements and obstacles. Scoring begins approximately 20 feet before elements and obstacles and ends once the dog, stock, and handler have exited or completed the elements or obstacles.
Requirements: Roads should be clearly marked by visible borders on both sides. At all levels, at least 65% of roadwork is expected to be off the fence and the closest boundary on the road shall be a minimum of 5′ from the fence (may be more) so the dog can work both sides if necessary. A maximum of 35% of the course may be a one furrowed road on a fence line of the Boundary course at all levels. Roads should be a minimum of 12 feet wide.
9. Advanced Element (Level III only) Select One – 10 pts:
a) Flock examination – Inspection for stock soundness at the Night Pen – 10 pts:
Objective: At the beginning of the run, the handler will bring the dog into the pen and move the flock around the pen briefly to make sure the stock is sound before taking them to graze. The judge will then designate 1 head of stock that needs further individualized inspection. This animal will not be marked and will be selected by the judge after the flock has been moved by the dog for the initial inspection. The handler will gently take hold of the designated sheep/goat from the flock and hold for judge’s further inspection prior to the exit of the pen and the beginning of the rest of the course.
Requirements: Gentle restraint of the head with hands or a standard crook is acceptable. Restraint by grabbing horns or legs is not acceptable and the run will be called by the judge and a non qualifying score will be given. If the flock is mixed, the judge will assign the same species for all handlers in the level.
OR
b) Barrier in the path – 10 pts:
Objective: To safely guide the flock around a barrier in the path. This should simulate a car accident, downed tree, construction, or some kind of barrier that the stock cannot navigate on the path but must go off the road and outside of the established furrow or border.
Requirements: The area around the barrier should be safely navigable, and will require the dog and handler to take the flock off the road a minimum of 25 feet. A marker shall identify the distance that the flock must be moved off the road. They should go around the barrier and get back on the road to proceed on the course. The barrier in the path can be located anywhere on the course where it is safe to negotiate as long as it does not begin or end within 50 feet of the previous or upcoming element. The barrier in the path must be removed prior to Level I and Level II running the course if they are using the same section of the road.
OTHER OPTIONAL ELEMENTS:
These elements may be substituted for the standard optional elements on the course with prior approval from the Boundary Course Coordinator before sending in for sanctioning. An optional element cannot be substituted for a mandatory element. If a facility would like to submit their own optional element to replace one of the optional elements listed here, they must submit the new optional element with the course description and list the objective, requirements, and suggested scoring deductions with the paperwork to the Boundary Course Coordinator prior to sending to the Sanctioning Coordinator.
Hikers on the course:
Objective: To test the dog’s ability to keep the stock from milling about the 1 to 3 hikers who are traveling on the same road.
Requirements: Hikers may not be main livestock feeders or facility owner or someone with whom the livestock is extremely familiar. Hikers must be the same people throughout each level. They should perform the same for each dog within the class. It is preferred that un- entered exhibitors on this course will be the hikers for all levels; however, if there are not enough volunteers, then exhibitors may be used but may not be hikers in the level in which they are competing. Hikers are not to overtly engage the dog or the flock. They may step aside out off of the road and stop or keep walking as long as they do the same for every run.
Level I: 1 hiker on the course
Level II: 2 hikers on the course – 1 set of 2 hikers or 2 separate hikers on the course
Level III: 3 hikers on the course – 1 set of 2 hikers, and 1 separate hiker
Additional Chutes:
Objective: To safely navigate the obstacle
Requirements: Chute should be wide enough for easy passage.
Level I: Handler may move anywhere other than inside the chute to help the dog navigate stock through the obstacle
Level II: Handler will have limited movement on the chute which will be listed in the course description
Level III: Handler will have limited movement on the chute which will be listed in the course description and will be more challenging than Level II
Sort Exercise of 5 Head:
Objective: To sort 5 head into a pen on course. After the sort is complete, the stock are brought back out and combined back into their original flock.
Requirements: Sorting pen will not be the Night Pen/Repen. This element may be used with chutes or double gates or alleyways with a pen attached.
Level I – sort any 5 head
Level II – sort 3 of the 5 head of a certain color or type or collared
Level III – sort 5 specific head of a certain color or type or collared
Stops on the Course:
Objective: To have the dog show the ability to stop the forward progression of the flock and hold the flock in various places along the road. The dog’s position to hold the stop on course may vary depending on where the draws are on the course. Example – for a strong draw to the back – the dog may have to be positioned for the stop along the side of the road or even toward the rear of the flock.
Requirement: Stops should be at the same location for all exhibitors within the same level and should demonstrate the dogs ability to help the handler stop and hold the flock. Cones or other markers should be used for indicating the location of the stops at all levels.
Level I – 1 stop
Level II – 2 stops
Level III – 3 stops of which one must be a hold against a hard draw such as a gate or pen or feeder
Fork in the Road:
Objective: To negotiate a fork in the road with 2 possible directions. The dog should manage the flock keeping them going on the correct path. The fork in the road shall be 135 or 225 degree angle from the approach on the road.
Requirements: The fork in the road should be in the shape of a Y with the handler negotiating the fork at the base of the Y shape.
Double Gate Passage:
Objective: To guide the flock through two consecutive gates set at different angles. A smooth and quiet transition through the gates should score better than excessive management by the handler. There are 2 closed gates the handler must negotiate. The flock shall be put through both gates. Both gates must be closed behind the handler and livestock. Gates may be actual gates set at different angle with chutes in between. The gates must have a solid frame and the handle must be easy to latch and unlatch with one hand. If a facility wants to set gates on their course to emulate this double gate passage – they may choose to set 2 sets of panels on course with a gate in the middle at 2 different angles.
Requirements: Gates set at different angles. Gates must be wide enough to accommodate the stock without undue danger of hitting the gates. The minimum gate size for 15 head is a 4 foot gate. Gates do not have to be the same size. Gates must have solid frames and have easy to use handles on both gates.
JUDGING AND SCORING GUIDELINES
Current AHBA judges that wish to apply to judge BTD courses need to email their request along with a screen shot of their current approval to judge other American boundary style courses to the AHBA club secretary. Upon receipt, an additional application and questionnaire will be sent to the potential judging applicant to be completed and returned to the secretary. Boundary course judges will be approved on an individual basis and will be listed on a separate Boundary course judges directory.
Sponsors who wish to bring foreign judges to judge must send the course description and map to the Boundary Course Coordinator prior to sending to the prospective judge. Once approved, the course map and description will be sent and signed by the judge affirming they have read and understood the course and will judge according to AHBA rules and judging regulations for the courses. This map and description will be submitted by the trial sponsor, with the course sanctioning paperwork, for approval each time a sponsor hosts a trial with a foreign judge.
Scoring is on a points-off basis. Each element is assigned value and points may be deducted. The run is scored on the quality of the dog’s work to include: independence of work, calmness, efficient movement of the stock, and responsiveness to the handler.
To qualify, dogs must attempt all obstacles and not be excused for a lack of control or gripping. A minimum of 70% of the available points must be earned for a qualifying score in all levels in addition to having at least one point in each scoring element/obstacle. At Level I and Level II, a 63 or above is qualifying. At Level III, a 70 or above is qualifying. Placements will be based on the highest scores earned under each judge.
ahbasecretary@gmail.com
ahbaboundarycoordinator@gmail.com
Score sheets should flow in the order of the course elements with the exception of Roadwork/General Behavior which should be listed next to last with the Advanced Level III element being last on the score sheet.
Ties will be broken by higher level first then by the best score on the roadwork and then the best score on the stationary graze and then by overall time.
Dogs shall not qualify if:
Uncontrolled/abusive gripping (Judge should call the run immediately)
Inability to move the stock for a prolonged period of time
Over-running or leaving the stock
Excessive handler assistance
Dog not moving as needed of its own initiative on the border on the grazes
Dog loses the entire flock 2 times on an element or course because the dog is not engaged, then the run shall be called
SCORING SUGGESTIONS FOR ELEMENTS
1. Night Pen – Mandatory – 10 pts:
– Up to 2 points deducted for stock escaping while handler opens the gate
– Up to 2 points deducted for the dog not entering the pen if commanded
– Up to 2 points deducted for disturbing the stock when entering the pen
– Up to 2 points deducted for stock hitting, banging or crowding the gate
– Up to 2 points deducted if the dog leaves the pen before all the stock have exited, unless otherwise commanded
– Up to 3 points deducted for the handler not closing the gate behind them and the judge having to remind them
– Up to 3 points for scattering the stock
2. Stationary Graze – Mandatory – 15 pts:
– Only 1 point maximum may be deducted for the dog cutting corners on the graze, unless they cut in closer and closer throughout the graze. If they stay on the same path that the dog originally cut in, they may not be penalized further
– Up to 2 points each time if the dog continues to cut closer in to the graze on each pass
– Up to 3 points deducted for dog working too close and disturbing the stock or too far off to control grazing
– Up to 3 points deducted for the handler moving on the graze to influence the stock instead of the dog
– Up to 3 points deducted each time if the dog enters the graze boundary without command
– Up to 10 points for the dog continuously lapping around the graze without regard to the stock position
– Up to 10 points deducted if the handler re-positions by more than a crook’s length from the perimeter of the graze
– Up to 15 points deducted for the dog not working independently or needing excessive commands
– Up to 15 points deducted for stock repeatedly leaving the graze area
3. Small Tractor/4 Wheeler/ATV/Lawn Mower/Golf Cart Pass – 10 pts:
– Up to 2 points deducted if stock stops moving as the vehicle passes
– Up to 3 points deducted if the dog or handler fails to make room for the vehicle
– Up to 3 points for the dog going off contact during the vehicle pass
– Up to 5 points if the vehicle has to slow down or stop to avoid hitting the stock, dog, or handler
– Up to 7 points if the dog goes around the vehicle
– Up to 10 points deducted if the stock escapes
4. Moving Graze – Mandatory – 10 pts:
– Up to 2 points deducted for each missed stop during the turn of the flock for Level II and Level III
– Up to 2 points for handler not notifying the judge that they are sending the dog on the placement for Level III
– Up to 3 points deducted for the dog working too close and disturbing the stock or going off contact which allows the stock to escape
– Up to 5 points for the dog or handler being closer than 25′ to the top at Level III before sending
– Up to 5 points for the dog not being sent for the placement at Level III and having to be reminded by the judge
– Up to 10 points deducted if the dog allows stock to repeatedly leave the moving graze area and not get them back in quickly
5. Curving Paths (Incorporating both S and U shaped) OR Difficult Obstacle – Optional – 10 pts:
Curving Paths:
– Up to 1 point per head if the stock do not stay on the road due to the dog failing to control the path of the livestock
– Up to 3 points for off contact
– Up to 2 points for disturbing the flock
– A judge may choose to NQ an exhibitor on this element if the handler does not attempt to keep the flock within the boundary of the road
Hay/Grain Feeder Obstacle:
– Up to 1 point deducted for each head of stock that gets to the hay/grain
– Up to 3 points for the dog leaving the stock and going to the handler
-Up to 10 points deducted if all of the stock get to the hay/grain
– If the dog cannot get the stock off of the grain/hay and back on course even with the help of the handler, in a reasonable amount of time, the run should be called
6. Bridge OR Trailer Load and Unload – Optional – 10 pts:
Bridge:
-Up to 1 point per head for stock not crossing the bridge
-Up to 1 point per head for stock reversing back to the handler over the bridge
– Up to 2 points deducted for disturbing the stock while entering or exiting
– Up to 2 points deducted for dog breaking the stay at the bridge entrance, unless otherwise commanded by the handler
– Up to 2 points deducted for dog crossing bridge before all stock have crossed, unless otherwise commanded by the handler
– Up to 3 points if the handler has to assist
– Up to 3 points if the dog does not come onto the bridge to cross behind the flock
– Up to 3 points off for contact
– Up to 3 points for the handler breaking the entrance plane of the wing of the bridge on the drive Level III option. If the handler breaks the exit wing plane on the bridge before the drive is completed/all stock have moved past the 20 foot marker, they should be severely penalized. A handler that breaks the first plane of the bridge should score better than a handler that goes all the way to exit plane of the bridge
Trailer Load and Unload:
– Up to 2 points for disturbing the stock or hitting the sides of the trailer caused by the dog while loading or unloading
– Up to 2 points for the dog refusing to enter or exit the trailer upon command
– Up to 2 points for the handler forgetting to close the side door and needing to be reminded by the judge
– Up to 5 points if the stock leave early before the back door is closed. The stock should be brought back and reloaded
– Up to 5 points for failing to close the trailer door and/or having to be reminded by the judge to close the trailer door
– Up to 10 points for stock not entering the trailer
– Up to 10 points for the level III handler intentionally dropping the rope/leash on the handle of the trailer
After the stock are loaded and the trailer door is closed, the handler may let go of the rope, if they are going to side door to unload, without penalty
7. Repen – Mandatory – 10 pts:
– Up to 2 points for the dog quitting before all the stock are penned
– Up to 2 points for chasing the stock into the pen
– Up to 2 points for slamming the pen gate on the stock
– Up to 2 points per head for stock hitting the gate due to the dog
– Up to 3 points for no attempt of a hold off the gate
– Up to 3 points if the dog enters the repen and exits quickly without disturbing the stock
– Up to 5 points for stock escaping the pen after entering
– A dog that enters the repen and cannot be called out quickly shall not qualify
8. General Behavior/ Roadwork – Mandatory– 15 pts:
– Up to 1 point for minor deviation from the ideal path or position
– Up to 1 point each time the dog goes off contact
– Up to 1 point per head for stock leaving the road
– Up to 2 points for the dog circling the stock or stopping forward progression/movement
– Up to 3 points for diving in or disturbing the flock
– Up to 3 points for no attempts to hold off the gate(s) on the course
– Up to 3 points for the dog splitting the stock
– Up to 3 points for dogs repetitively marking on course. No penalty should be taken for dogs eliminating since this course can take up to 45 minutes
– Up to 4 points for retreats on course
– Up to 4 points for an inappropriate grip. The judge should give a warning on the first grip. The run must be called for a second inappropriate grip. Appropriate grips are to be allowed without penalty
– Up to 5 points each time the handler intentionally touches the dog or stock (except Level III for the stock inspection)
– Up to 5 points for the stock escaping as long as they stay within the bounds of the course as listed in the premium and the dog and handler team can get them back quickly. The run is to be called on the second escape
– Up to 10 points for lack of progress for a prolonged amount of time
– Up to 15 points for excessive handler commands on course
– A dog will not qualify if it just follows along behind the flock without controlling the flocks movement. A dog which moves to the back of the flock on occasion or crosses in the rear to fix or check if there is a problem shall not be penalized. The dog does not stay in one place while managing the livestock, but rather moves as necessary to oversee the flock and keep the flock moving at the pace set by the handler
If the dog eliminates on course, handlers must pick up after their dogs when their run is complete
9. Advanced Element (Level III Only) Flock Examination/Inspection for stock soundness at the Night Pen OR Barrier in the Path – Level III only – 10 pts:
Flock examination – Inspection for stock soundness at the Night Pen:
– Up to 3 points if the handler forgets to move the flock with the dog for the initial inspection and must be reminded by the judge
– Up to 3 points for inefficient gathering of stock to handler
– Up to 3 points for the dog not holding the group while the handler catches the designated sheep/goat for judge’s inspection
-Up to 5 points for the dog harassing the stock during the gather of the flock to the handler or while holding them
– Up to 10 points if the dog fails to help hold the specified sheep/goat to the handler
– If the handler grabs the horns or leg – the run shall be called by the judge
Barrier in the Path:
– Up to 3 points for splitting the stock
– Up to 3 points for part of the stock straying from the new path
– Up to 3 points for going to wide on the path
– Up to 3 points for the dog not remaining calm during the deviance off the road
– Up to 9 points for the stock milling around the barrier
– Up to 10 points for the dog chasing the stock around the barrier
OPTIONAL SCORING ELEMENT DEDUCTIONS
Hikers on the course:
– Up to 3 points for livestock milling around the hikers
– Up to 3 for the stock escaping the dogs control
– Up to 5 points for dogs engaging hikers
Additional Chutes:
– Up to 1 point per head for stock missing the obstacle
– Up to 2 points for the stock hitting the obstacle or banging the gate(s) of the chute
– Up to 3 points for the stock reversing through the obstacle
– Up to 3 points for the handler leaving their designated line or plane early
– Up to 3 points for the handler leaving the gate open and the judge having to remind them to close the gate
Sort Exercise of 5:
– Up to 2 points for closing the sort gate roughly on the livestock
– Up to 2 points per head for incorrect stock being sorted
– Up to 3 points for rough handling of the livestock
– Up to 3 points for excessive commands
– Up to 5 points for dog not helping during the sort
Stock may have their heads gently lifted and turned by the handler to prevent them from entering the gate during the sort without penalty
Stops on the Course:
– Up to 3 points for the livestock moving during the stop
– Up to 3 points for the dog not stopping forward progression during the stop(s)
– Up to 3 points for the dog splitting the stock when gathering to continue on the road
– A dog that is sent to the side or the rear of the flock to hold the stock on a stop against a draw may do without penalty
Fork in the Road:
– Up to 1 point per head for stock missing the fork in the road or going off course
– Up to 3 points if the handler goes down the wrong fork and has to reverse to head back in the correct direction
– Up to 3 points for off contact
– Up to 3 points for scattering the stock
Double Gate(s):
– Up to 2 points for the stock missing the gates or being rushed through the gates
– Up to 2 points for hitting gates or turning back
– Up to 3 points for dog not holding the stock off the gates while the handler opens them
– Up to 3 points if the transition through the gates is not smooth
– Up to 3 points for judge having to remind handler to close the gates behind them
– Up to 3 points off if some of the stock go around the panels if the double gate set up is out in the open.