FROM CHAOS TO CONTROL! This is unlike any Sheepdog Training DVD you've seen before. Whether you're a hobbyist, aspiring sheepdog trialler, farmer or intermediate handler, this down-to-earth, lively and often humorous new DVD clearly explains the natural instinct of the Border Collie Sheepdog and how (with patience and determination) it can easily be programmed to develop a fantastic workmate. Pro sheepdog trainer Andy Nickless demonstrates sheepdog training as it really is, right from the very beginning. You'll see things going wrong and then be shown how to put them right in a way that both dog and handler can understand. Before you start to train a sheepdog, it's important to understand what's likely to happen. On disc 1 Andy describes the characteristics and instincts of the sheepdog and the sheep, how you can prepare a suitable training area and indeed, how to prepare yourself for the task in hand. There's also a separate chapter on the sheepdog whistle and how to blow it. Andy gives clear and precise demonstrations of how to get the best out of your whistle. The three main difficulties you may encounter when starting off a young dog are: Lack of control (the dog appears to just run amok). Staring at the Sheep. (The dog just stares at the sheep and won't move). Ignoring Sheep (the dog which ignores the sheep and doesn't want to work them). Dogs showing each of these characteristics are used in turn to show you what the problem is, and how you can easily correct it. Other problems, such as the dog which will only circle one way around the sheep, are covered along the way. Andy also demonstrates his "Slingshot" method of sending the dog out wider around the sheep. The dogs love this method and quickly learn to go out wide. Gradually, each dog becomes more controllable until at the end of the programme, all three dogs are really useful workers and ready to go to work, or on to more advanced training if required.

Andy Nickless is a pro videographer and sheepdog trainer with a wealth of experience in his subjects. He has been successful in sheepdog trials and currently trains sheepdogs for farm and sheepdog trial use.