Why Only Working Dog Breeds?

Understanding the Purpose Behind Our Specialised Training Approach

At Shimmy Downs Kelpies, we’re often asked why we exclusively accept working dog breeds for training. Whether your dog is a full-time farmhand or a much-loved family pet, the key criteria for our programs is breed type—and there’s a good reason for it.

Working Breeds Are Wired Differently

Every breed of dog has unique instincts, energy levels, and behavioural needs. Working breeds—such as Kelpies, Border Collies and Heelers—are high-drive, intelligent animals that were bred to herd, hunt, or guard. They need purpose, structure, and consistent mental and physical stimulation.

Our training programs are designed specifically around the natural instincts and energy levels of these breeds. We cater to what working dogs love most: having a job to do.

We Train for More Than Just Obedience

Yes, we teach foundational obedience, leash manners, and socialisation. But our primary focus is training working breeds to do what they were born to do—work livestock, especially sheep.

Many working-bred dogs living in suburban homes begin to show behavioural issues not because they’re “naughty,” but because they’re bored. Without the opportunity to channel their energy and instinct, they often develop anxiety, destructive behaviours, or obsessive tendencies.

At Shimmy Downs, we give these dogs an outlet. Whether your dog is actively working on a farm or simply thrives on training and challenge, we provide a space where their working drive is understood and nurtured.

Why We Don’t Train Non-Working Breeds

It’s not that we don’t love all dogs—we absolutely do. But a Labrador, Poodle, or French Bulldog has vastly different motivations, instincts, and training needs than a Kelpie or Collie. Mixing breed types in training can lead to frustration for both the dogs and their handlers.

By focusing exclusively on working dog breeds, we ensure:

• Training is relevant to the dog’s natural drive

• Sessions are structured and efficient

• Dogs and owners are surrounded by others with similar goals and challenges

  
  

A Place Where Working Dogs Can Thrive

Whether your working breed is rounding up stock on a farm or playing fetch in the backyard, we'd love to welcome them into our training program. We’re here to help you understand your dog’s instincts, bring out their best, and enjoy the journey together.

If you have a Kelpie, Border Collie, or similar working breed, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s give your dog the job and joy they were born for.

— The Shimmy Downs Kelpies Crew