Dave Viklund
Dave and Vaider
I have worked with livestock since 1982 and have been using stock dogs since 1992. I have worked on ranches, feedlots, sheep outfits as well as on my own mixed farms. In 2001 I stretched my dogs beyond working situations when I began using my dogs in herding trials. As I used my dogs on livestock operations I would help other hands with their dogs and training, this continued as I began trialling till I now help people, most days, with their dogs and questions for both working and trialling purposes.
I train dogs with an emphasis on livestock handling, helping the dog to be where and doing the things they need too for control of their livestock. To do this I use
Dave feeding the Jersey calves
an approach of pressure and release using both direct and indirect pressure. My approach is to develop a relationship of honesty and respect between handler and dog which will then translate to the livestock. I also stress that the dog is respectful of the handler not just obedient.
I enjoy working all breeds of herd dogs as each breed has their strengths. In training dogs my feeling is; good work is good work regardless of breed. I have worked many different types of dogs, upright and eye breeds ranging from sensitive to strong temperments.