Site Meter My Friendly Pets » Blog Archive » Doggy dude ranch…here they come!!

Doggy dude ranch…here they come!!

by Susan Mead

080417_citydogs_11a_hmedium.jpg
Most dogs were originally bred to work and serve their human masters. Over years and generations, dogs have assumed more of a domestic, less job related role in our lives. They are our companions, friends, and confidantes (you never have to worry about them telling your secrets). Some of the most popular working dogs were herders, who helped to keep herds of sheep, goats or cows together so that many just didn’t wander off and become lost.

Those herding dogs rarely lose their inate desire to herd and now there is a places where they can excercise their breed specific qualities while also getting out into some wide open spaces. There is such a place located about 1 hour outside of Los Angeles where dogs can run and play and herd, known as Drummond Ranch. The ranch, facilities and training are part of a trend that allows dogs to be what they are by nature and to get away from the leash and fences that most are used to. According to the ranch owner, it does wonders for the dogs, “It really, really seems to center the dog and give the dog a sense of confidence and fulfillment, a good assertiveness, a good energy,� said ranch owner Janna Duncan, who has taught dozens of canines and their owners the art of moving livestock.

According to the American Kennel Club, these types of herding clubs and establishments are popping up all over the country. It is estimated that more than200 herding clubs held competitions last year where over 10,000 dogs participated. This was a significant increase over 2006. With today’s busy lifestyles, owner don’t necessarily have the time or ability to allow their dog to exercise freely and do what they were born to do. These herding clubs serve that purpose to perfection. Owners are amazed when they see their dogs jump right in and begin to herd the livestock. They are proud and surprised to observe the skills that they never realized their dogs possessed.

Many dog owners have used this training and exercise rountine successfully with their dogs have been through several trainers and were deemed hopeless. The dogs aren’t hopeless, they were just not meant to sit home day in and day out waiting for someone to take them for a walk. They were bred to work and run and that’s what they want to do. Dogs who are determined to be trained through this method demonstrate significant benefits for the dogs and owners alike and it truly is a minor investment. On the Drummond Ranch, a four week training series is only $165.00. For more information, check out the American Kennel Club website.

Hey, do you have a spring headache? Is it allergies or sinus? Learn more by checking out a fellow blogger!!!


Leave a Reply


About My Friendly Pets

MyFriendlyPets.com is dedicated solely to man's best friend. Dog lovers rejoice! You have found a place to discuss all things canine. We feel that owning dogs isn't just a responsibility; it's a way of life! This site covers everything under the sun related to our furry friends; including behavior, breed profiles, dog food recipes, even funny and inspiring doggie tales. We provide links to innovative new pet products and share tips and ideas for keeping your pup happy and healthy. Ruff!

My Friendly Pets Author(s)
    » Susan-Mead

Pets & Animals Channel Posts

  • So much doggie stuff!!
    On a beautiful Sunday, as there was today in the northeast, I didn't want to write about anything too heavy. There are important dog stories out there and I'm sure I will be bringing them to you [...]
  • From shelter to stardom!!!
    [caption id="attachment_655" align="alignnone" width="200" caption="Chloe and Papi!!!"][/caption] It's opening weekend for the new flick, "Beverly Hills Chihuahua" and it looks like Disney has [...]
  • First Grooming
    Trooper and Timber went to the groomers this morning. I can't wait to see my big fluff ball all cleaned up. He's such a handsome boy. Don't you think? Of course I'm slightly biased. Timber [...]
  • Out in the wilderness - dangers for your dog!!
    [caption id="attachment_651" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Row, row, row your boat....."][/caption] Most of us think that getting our dogs into the open air, water and woods is always good [...]
  • More hair for your furry friend??!!!
    [caption id="attachment_646" align="alignnone" width="296" caption="A new "doo" for Fido...don't forget the mousse!!!"][/caption] Well, you know that there are all types of amenities for your dog. [...]
  • Alaskan Huskies are SUPER DOGS!!!
    Alaskan Huskies might be the heartiest dogs around!! These are the dogs that participate in the 1150 mile Iditarod race which goes from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska. It covers some of the most [...]
  • A horrific story with hope!!
    [caption id="attachment_637" align="alignnone" width="214" caption="Sally saved with one of those who rescued her!"][/caption]It is with much trepidation that I bring this story to you. While this [...]
  • A Substitute for Children?
    On Friday, hubby asked me if he thought our dogs were our attempt at filling a void in our life. We do not have any human babies but both want one or two. So far, no luck. I answered yes. I do [...]
  • Tighten your belt-but don't sacrifice your dog!!!
    These are tough economic times...everyone is feeling the pinch. But there is a way to keep your spending in line and still take the best care of your pet!!! Most people will cut down on their own [...]
  • Your dog cheating on you - never???!!!
    Well, according to Kim Campbell Thorton, in a recent article she wrote, it is entirely possible for your dog to shift his/her affections to someone else when they come around or when you leave the [...]

Hot Off The Press

  • Prison Break - I'm going to give Amaury some Face Time Here
    I couldn't decide if Dominic Purcell or Amaury Nolasco...was gonna make it big here on the TV Boyfriend's for a while.  But, I think I've found a good little section of hot photos of Amaury so [...]
  • De-Lurking Day - Wednesday, October 8th
    I'm celebrating and I'm trying to get as many people as possible to get involved.  In case you don't know what it means to "de-lurk", I"m getting you the definition, right here and right now. [...]
  • De-Lurking Day - Wednesday, October 8th
    I'm celebrating and I'm trying to get as many people as possible to get involved.  In case you don't know what it means to "de-lurk", I"m getting you the definition, right here [...]
  • De-Lurking Day - Wednesday, October 8th
    I'm celebrating and I'm trying to get as many people as possible to get involved.  In case you don't know what it means to "de-lurk", I"m getting you the definition, right here [...]
  • The Week's Review
    Another Talk about Chronic Pain For Now...it's a Win Win The Marital Bed Post Number 435,537,344 Prozac....I love you Technorati Tags: chronic pain,prozac,cymbalta,preferred drugs,non-preferred [...]
  • Break From Weighing In
    I'm still at a writer's conference/on holiday today, so I'm not planning on weighing in. If I remembered to bring along my scale and have internet access today, I'll log in and change this post to my [...]
  • McCain ends campaign in Michigan
    Republican presidential candidate John McCain R.- Ariz. has withdrawn campaign funding in Michigan. A Detroit Free Press poll released last month showed Democratic presidential candidate Barack [...]
  • Seven Brides for Seven Brothers: A revival
    Congratulations! Somebody on eDate likes the looks of you! User pontipee1954, 38, of Oregon, USA, asked us to contact you on his behalf. Here's what this dreamy dude had to say: Re: Bless yore [...]
  • De-Lurking Day - Wednesday, October 8th
    I'm celebrating and I'm trying to get as many people as possible to get involved.  In case you don't know what it means to "de-lurk", I"m getting you the definition, right here and right now. [...]
  • What happened last week around here
    Some More ADD - TCAH - My Own Child Let Me Tell You a Little Story Here Here, I say, here here I Hope This is Not What my Future Holds Somewhere Down the Line The Case Against Homework- The Homework [...]