August 28, 2024 —The historic event, held annually during the Mendocino County Fair, will happen inside the Rodeo Arena. The competitive herding event dates back to the 1860s in both New Zealand and Wales, but the exact origin is unclear. The sport gained popularity and eventually spread to Australia and other countries worldwide.
The Redwood Empire Region of Northern California developed this specific kind of sheepdog trial in the 1940s due to
Mendocino County’s rough terrain.
During the event herding dogs show their skills by moving sheep around fences and gates while directed by their handlers. A judge assesses their performance to see how well the dogs can guide the sheep into different enclosures.
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