Prepare to have a ball with ball herding!

Island Sheep Ball is an Island-born game with roots in Treibball. But unlike Treibball, which requires many hundreds of hours of training, Island Sheep Ball requires only three cues for you and your dog (a team) to learn to play the game. Canine teammates learn to stop and hold position on cue, drive the ball on cue, and drive the ball toward their human teammate. Once teams are proficient with these cues while off leash, they are ready to play the game of Island Sheep Ball. The game is played by moving an oversized ball from one end of a field to the other end of the field. The handler can stop the ball or move the ball in the opposite direction of the goal. Only the dog can move the ball toward the goal. The team that moves the ball from one end of a field to the goal at the other end with the fastest time wins. Teams work one at a time on the field. In advanced levels of the game, there may be cones on the field to drive the ball around.

The Island Sheep Ball Class Program

Level 1

In Level 1, teams will practice learning to stop, drive and and target the handler with a ball. Teams will work one at a time in a confined indoor area before moving outdoors. Class tuition includes a ball suited to the size of your dog. Class Instructor is ATA certified coach, judge and trainer Lisa Holt. Includes ball suited to your dog’s size and preference.

Level 2

In Level 2, Teams will practice moving the ball in an outdoor area while stopping behind the ball and driving the ball towards the handler. In Level 2, teams will play the game of Island Sheep Ball.

Level 3

In Level 3, Teams will practice playing the game as a timed team event. The course will be longer, and there may be cones on the course.

Upcoming Classes