I have a 2yr old aussie I would like to start in herding. I'm looking for advice on what to do before he meets animals. What are the fundamentals, building blocks we need to know to make herding a success. Any advice from dog herding trainers would be appreciated!
I would suggest reading articles that are available on the AKC herding site and other herding organizations sites such as the USBCA, ASCA, AHBA, and others.
The 2 most critical things that comes to mind in my opinion is
1. Do not let your dog engage livestock without supervision at any time.
2. Establish really high standards to obedience commands so that you will have some chance to control a high prey drive dog in the initial stages of herding lessons. Otherwise your first exposer will not only be a wreck but may result in injury to dog,human,property, and livestock. livestock are really keen at jujdging a dog that is out of control and will react accordingly. Teach your dog to wait before going through gates and not pull you while on leash.
And finally there is a huge difference beteen stocking, chasing, and herding.