Stock Dogs, Handlers Shine at Trials

Rafter 3C hosted the Great Basin Bull Sale Stock Dog Trials on Feb. 14, where Dalton and Ashley Wright presented a test of skill for twelve handlers and their dogs. Sanctioned by the National Cattle Dog Association, competitors mounted horseback to guide three cattle through four obstacles and an exhaust, with letting the cattle out of the arena serving as a fifth challenge. Each team had six minutes from the cattle’s entry to complete all five obstacles, showcasing their ability to maneuver and manage livestock under pressure.

Mike Collins and his dog Nell claimed first place at the event, followed by Dalton Wright with Mina in second, and Bill Schwoerer with Cash in third.

Stock dog trials trace their roots to sheepdog competitions in the United Kingdom, with the first recorded event dating back to 1873. The tradition crossed the Atlantic, and America’s first well-documented trial took place in 1928 in Bennington, Vermont. The American Kennel Club officially recognized herding trials in 1989, marking a new era for the sport.

Despite changes and innovations over the years, the structure of stock dog trials has remained largely unchanged. The essence lies in the handler’s ability to gather, drive, and pen livestock—a skill honed over generations and central to the competition’s enduring appeal.