FYI: If you make a purchase via a link on this site, I may receive a commission from various affiliate programs, and as an Amazon Associate and Chewy affiliate I also earn commissions from qualifying purchases—at NO extra cost to you. See the Disclosure page for more information. Thank you!

Our Official Aussie Ebook | Dog Training Videos

Get The Ball Rolling With Treibball

Treibball is one of the newer canine sports but it is quickly catching on, particularly among owners of herding breeds like the Australian Shepherd, for whom this fun new activity was specifically created. It combines all of the skills used for herding with traditional obedience training to give herders a way to show off their abilities and get a work out when there aren't any sheep to be found.

Originating in Germany, the sport has built a following around the world, with associations cropping up in various countries, including the American Treibball Association (ATA) and National Association of Treibball Enthusiasts (NATE) in the United States. As this sport continues to catch on, more competitions are being developed and more and more people are getting in on the fun.

In treibball, dogs must work with a set of eight large balls, each ball approximately 45-75 cm in diameter, and move them into a confined space the size of a soccer goal. The ball should be shoulder height or higher for the dog. The balls start out in a triangle formation, much like a rack of billiard balls, and the dog must move them one at a time into the goal. The ultimate objective is to get all eight balls into the goal within a 15 minute time period.

amyinlondon / stock.adobe.com, Photo Illustration: Anton Hout

In order to help the dog complete his task, the handler works with him giving a series of signals either verbally, with the hands or by whistling. The handler is confined to an area that comprises the left half of the goal area and extends back several feet behind the goal. While verbal signals may be given, no verbal or physical corrections may be used throughout the competition. Dog and handler must exhibit a keen ability to work together to accomplish their task.

Get the Ball Rolling: A Step by Step Guide to Training for Treibball

Buy on Amazon

Unlike traditional agility courses, which require a handler to run the course with his dog, treibball does not take a physical toll on the handler. Instead the focus of the sport is on the mental connection between dog and handler and their ability to communicate accurately. This can make it a much better option for less physically fit handlers who may not be up to the rigors of agility work. (More information about dog agility training.)

Treibball Is A Great Dog Sport For Australian Shepherds

Not surprisingly, because it is so strongly based on herding instincts and commands, this is a sport that is particularly well suited to Australian Shepherds and other herding breeds. For these dogs, herding is an instinct and following commands comes relatively easily so the sport is something of a natural for them. They live to work and to show off their abilities and this gives them the opportunity to do so even when sheep or other livestock are not available.

Race&Herd Herding Ball for Large & Medium Dogs, 25" Complete Herding Ball Set for Australian Shepherd

Buy on Amazon

Because it is less physically demanding for both handler and dog, however, it can be suited to many breeds and may be a better fit for those dogs that can't handle the fast pace of agility. It can also be ideal for dogs that have physical limitations but are still eager to please and need to get a workout to remain active and healthy.

If you're looking for a perfect activity for your Australian Shepherd and don't have a flock of sheep handy, then this dog sport may be just the answer for you. For more information about finding ways to get involved in the sport in your area, check the ATA or NATE websites or look up a trainer near you. There's no reason why you can't get out there and get moving with your dog, so why not consider the wonderful world of treibball?

Newsletter for Aussie Lovers!

Get Australian Shepherd Info, Website Updates, Special Offers, and Cartoons...

FREE GIFT
You'll also receive a free copy of the ebook
My Everyday Dog Training Tools
by professional dog trainer Daniel Abdelnoor, "Doggy Dan"

Email

  I am at least 16 years of age.

  I have read and accept the privacy policy.

  I understand that you will use my information to send me the Australian Shepherd Lovers newsletter once a month. You can unsubscribe any time with the unsubscribe link at the bottom of every issue.

Subscribe