Farmers in Landes, France, are participating in training sessions organized by the Chamber of Agriculture. These sessions aim to help them safely manage and move their cattle and sheep. The training focuses on using dogs effectively to gather and control livestock.
While the Pyrenees might be more known for sheep, cow, and goat herds, Landes also has its share of livestock farmers. These farmers, spread from Chalosse to Haute Lande, need well-trained dogs to assist them. The goal is to have a reliable and safe working tool, according to Margaux Goyenetche from the Chamber of Agriculture.
The training sessions, which restarted in September 2024, cater to both beginners and experienced handlers. Ludivine Cornier, a sheep farmer, attended a session with her border collie, Viva. She emphasized the value of external feedback and structured training.
Fabian Gaicon, a dog trainer from the Hautes-Pyrénées, leads the training. He stresses the importance of a dog's ability to calmly move a structured herd. Commands like "left," "right," and "stop" build upon the dog's natural herding instincts.
Marion Planté, a young farmer, highlighted the benefits of an efficient herding dog. She noted that it reduces workload, minimizes risks when moving the herd, and reduces the need to run. The training involves practical exercises with sheep and emphasizes consistent practice.
Jocelyn Duronea, a sheep farmer, brought his young labrit, Artza, to the training. The sessions include calm breaks for the dogs to recover from intense activity. Further training in open fields and advanced cycles are planned for the participants.