Backgrounder – Sheepdog Trials

The National Point Qualifying Sheepdog Trials during the Trailing of the Sheep Festival is a must see for all animal enthusiasts who have wondered who is in charge of the sheep and how the dogs  are trained to respond to their handlers. These amazingly talented animals will bring words of  astonishment from viewers along with great photo opportunities. 

The United States Border Collie Handlers Association is the governing body of the trialing world  and sanctions the Trailing of the Sheep Festival Trials. The 2022 Trials will feature 110 of the most  talented border collies paired with their top handlers. Look for teams traveling from Utah, Idaho,  Montana, California, Oregon, Washington and Canada.  

The sheep are being loaned courtesy of Flat Top Sheep Company. The Flat Top Sheep Co., was  started in the 1920s by John Peavey’s grandfather, John Thomas, who was a U.S. senator. John’s  father, Art Peavey, was an attorney and also operated the ranch near Carey, Idaho. Today, John,  his son Tom and grandsons Cory and Jake (now the fifth generation) work together at Flat Top and  run their sheep in the Pioneer Mountains above Sun Valley in the summer months. In addition, while you are out at the Trials, enjoy wonderful food from the Gooding Basque  Association, beverages, shop for great Festival merchandise and peruse the wares of over 30  vendors.