Description

Colin Gordon’s guide to judging sheepdog trials

Colin Gordon is a life-long shepherd, sheepdog handler, and trials judge. His fascinating book, first published in 1998, continues to be the standard work to explain the subtleties of sheepdog trials judging.

Anyone who watches trials will know that judgements can be very subjective, even controversial. One judge might take a view of a particular dog or handler that another judge would disagree with, or consider a particular fault to be of greater or lesser importance than would an equally conscientious colleague.

Sheepdog trials are founded in practical shepherding and, both with handling and judging, practical experience and clear, practical thinking are essential requirements.

This book gives aspiring judges and enthusiastic spectators a valuable insight into the thought process behind split-second, on the field, decision making. It also explains to trials competitors exactly what they’re aiming for, and why.