The purpose of the Herding Test, a limited version of a sheepdog trial, is to safeguard the future development of the Border Collie by emphasising the importance of the breed’s natural herding abilities. 

Border Collies which achieve Show Champion status in the breed ring need to succeed in the Herding Test before being made up to full Champions. However any registered Border Collie may take the Herding Test and those that pass will now be entitled to use the letters “SBCHT” at the end of their name. 

The test ties in with the Kennel Club's "Fit for Function, Fit for Life" campaign, which aims to ensure that dogs are bred to be fit for their original function and to enjoy their lives to the full.

The Herding Test consists of five principal elements – Outrun, Lift, Bring/Fetch, Inspection and Drive – working a group of five to ten sheep. 

Dogs need to pass overall but do not need to pass each section; the stated objective of the Herding Test is “to assess a dog’s instinct to herd sheep in a controlled manner and under instruction of the handler.” As it is the dog’s herding ability which is being tested, dogs may be handled by anyone, not necessarily the owner.

There are exemptions for dogs which have been successful in certain Trials affiliated to the International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS). Full details of these exemptions are on the Tests in 2010 page

How can I apply to enter my dog in a Herding test?

Border Collie Herding Tests in 2010 - Dates, places and entry forms for future Border Collie Herding Tests

What does the Test involve? 
Border Collie Herding Test in Detail

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