The Highlights

Learn the art of shepherding sheep with a Border Collie
Spend the day with renowned dog trainer & sheepdog trialist Nij Vyas
Learn Nij's approach to "intelligent sheepdog training"
Experience the thrill of working with a commercial flock of between 50-500 sheep at any one time
Includes a lunch stop at Launde Abbey (additional cost)
Be part of a small group of 2-4 people
Exchangeable Experience Gift

1 Location To Choose From

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Leicester

The Main Event

Discover the charm of the countryside with this Sheepdog Training Experience, an ideal gift for anyone seeking something unique and memorable. Set against stunning views and beautiful landscapes, this experience offers a fascinating insight into the traditional art of shepherding with a Border Collie.

Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with both fully trained dogs and young pups, depending on their mood of course! Each interaction is a chance to build trust and understanding, showcasing the special bond between humans and dogs.

Learn the essential skills of calmness, confidence, and multitasking while witnessing the interaction of three species – humans, dogs, and sheep – working together in harmony. You’ll find the day filled with unexpected moments, exercise, fresh air and plenty of laughter.

Under the guidance of Nij Vyas, you’ll explore the concept of "intelligent sheepdog training" and its broader significance. Get to know various sheep breeds, their characteristics, and the dynamics of managing a commercial flock, which can range from 50 to 500 sheep.

Depending on time, you might even learn how to use a sheepdog whistle, participate in practical shepherding tasks, and visit sites like the lambing shed. The day begins at 10 am, followed by a lunch break at the nearby Launde Abbey around 12:15 pm, wrapping up around 2:30 pm. As a special touch when possible, moments from your day will be captured on camera and emailed to you the afterwards.

Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for a thoughtful and unique gift, this Sheepdog Training Experience is sure to create lasting memories in the heart of the countryside.

Important Bits

Important to Note

Please note: You'll be part of a small group of 2-4 people.

All participants must be voucher holders and spectators are discouraged from watching close by as they can be a distraction to the sheep and dogs.

It is not recommended that participants bring their own dog, even to leave in their car.

Food and drink is not included with this voucher. Please allow for this additional cost on the day.

When

Bookable Monday to Friday subject to availability.

Occasional weekends may be available, please ask when booking if a weekend is possible.

Advanced booking is highly recommended.

Duration: Approx 4.5 hours - 10am to 2:30pm (1 hour for lunch at 12:15pm)

Please note: This experience can be weather dependant and in extreme weather, your experience will be rearranged.

Validity

Your voucher is valid for 12 Months from the date of issue.

Please note you must have booked and taken your experience before the expiry date.

Who Can Go

There is no minimum age however this experience isn't really suitable for babies or toddlers. It can be a long day for children so often the summer time is best if children are attending.
All under 18's must be accompanied by an adult.
Please advise of any medical conditions when booking.
Pregnancy can be an issue when coming into contact with pregnant ewes/ewes giving birth and also as the ground can be very uneven.
If you are a wheelchair or mobility scooter user, please advise of this when booking. Advanced notice will help to plan the day so you can enjoy the experience.
Toilet facilities are available.
Please dress suitably for the weather and wear sturdy footwear as the ground can be uneven.

What about Insurance?

The centres contracted with us hold public liability insurance. We also hold contingency liability cover. You will not be liable for accidental damage to equipment, except where damage has been caused as a result of recklessness or wilful negligence.

A cancellation indemnity, subject to terms, is included with every voucher.

How it Works

All you have to do is pay for the experience you wish to purchase and we’ll send a voucher and booking information to you or directly to the recipient, then you just need to check the info and book your experience.

FAQs

The Dogs

The dogs you'll be working with are Border Collies, many of which are competition dogs. The number dogs in attendance in the day will depend on the health of the dogs. Some dogs can be a bit temperamental and some only understand Welsh but this all adds to the fun!

The welfare of both the dogs and sheep is always a priority. The ground and temperature conditions will be assessed on the day to lower any risk of injury to the animals.

Lunch at Launde Abbey

A 1 hour lunch break will be scheduled for around 12:15pm. Launde Abbey offers a good selection of snacks, sandwiches and homemade cakes as well as hot and cold drinks.
Please note that this voucher does not include lunch so please allow for this additional cost on the day.

About Nij Vyas

Nij is a highly regarded dog trainer and sheepdog trialist with 32 years of experience. He has represented England in International trials and has been the owner of multiple competition winning dogs. He has officiated top events such as the English National Sheepdog Trials and the esteemed BBC program, One Man And His Dog.

Nij's sheepdog training philosophy is based on understanding and nurturing the strengths and abilities of each dog as well as the importance of creating a partnership between the handler and dogs.

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