I started training cowdogs in 1998. My first cowdog was a border collie named “Belle”. I watched every training video I could and asked a lot of questions to other trainers but in reality I learned more from Belle. She wasn’t perfect but she was a lot better than I was. I learned to rely on her instinct and ability and to keep quiet and let her work.
I didn’t initially intend to train dogs for the public but rather as a hobby. The guy that gave Belle to me talked me into going to a cattledog competition (trial) and entering Belle.
We didn’t win that first trial mainly because I had no clue what I was doing although Belle seemed to take to it naturally. After our run, a gentlemen met us at the gate and asked if I was interested in selling Belle. He made a pretty sizeable offer but I declined. He then asked if I would be interested in training his dog to handle like Belle. Through the years that same scenario of someone finding me after a run to inquire about training their dog has played out many times.
I take a lot of pride in what I do. Even though a good percentage of my clients are repeat customers’ that bring me dogs to train every year. I still get a little nervous when they come to pick up their trained dog. I want them and you to be happy with our work. My satisfaction is to see a big silly grin on your face when you see what your dog is capable of and getting to do what she is bred to do.
Paul and Ace
