A popular sheepdog training course which focuses on training a sheepdog and its handler is commencing in Mayo on 5 June 2026. The course is run in partnership with Teagasc Mayo and Declan Tierney of Roundfort Boarding Kennels.

It starts with an induction day on 5 June and this is followed by six one-to-one sessions, which take place fortnightly on Declan’s farm.

Teagasc’s Kevin Madden explains that over the course of the summer dogs gradually progress from the round pen in to open fields where skills are tested in real-life conditions.

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The complexity of the training progresses in tandem with the ability of the dog and its handler from basic herding to more precise and demanding manoeuvers.

It costs €325 for the course and further information can be obtained by phoning 087 9558836.