Of all breeds, the sheepdog is perhaps one of the most intriguing. Not only are these pups gorgeous but also incredibly smart. Although people who use them to herd sheep usually provide some training, their abilities are natural. In other words, from the time they’re puppies, the sheepdog instinctively knows what to do.
Different responsibilities
Sheepdog performs a variety of duties depending on the specific breed and the owner’s needs. Some serve as guardians over livestock while others herd, keeping the animals together or helping their owner move them to a different location. One important note — just because their name includes the word “sheep” doesn’t mean that’s the only type of animal they work with.
Multiple breeds
The term “sheepdog” includes many different breeds. For instance, there’s the Bearded Collie, Border Collie, German Shepherd, and the Shetland Sheepdog. A few examples of others are the Carpathian Shepherd Dog, Cumberland Sheepdog, Hungarian Puli, and the Old English Sheepdog.
The oddball
The sheepdog plays a critical role for their owners. Without them, thieves, as well as animal predators could easily steal or kill livestock. So, having a pup that can do its job correctly is vital. But in one case, a cute dog named Nelson wasn’t cut out for being a sheepdog.
Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier isn’t classified as a sheepdog. Instead, this British-bred pup makes an excellent family pet. But there’s one drawback. These dogs enjoy chasing squirrels, rabbits, foxes, and other small animals, which goes against the role of a traditional sheepdog.
Sweet Nelson
Owning sheep, one man decided to see how Nelson, his Norfolk Terrier, would do with herding. Thankfully, he shared a video of it on social media. With more than 3.5 million views and tons of comments, a lot of people got a good chuckle while watching it.
Nothing bad so far
At the start of the video, you see Nelson in a standoff with a small herd of sheep. But soon, he takes off running in front and to the side of the animals. You immediately hear his owner say, “No.”
Total confusion
Suddenly, Nelson bolts in the other direction. Calmly, his owner says, “Nelson, come here.” But the pup ignores him. The funny thing…as part of herding, livestock learn to follow the sheepdog. Although these sheep try to do that, it’s impossible with this scrappy guy running all over the place.
Let the games begin
The owner continues to try to get Nelson to mind but this pup has other ideas. Then, as he zooms past the herd, one of the sheep runs after him. Soon, the entire herd follows him. It’s hilarious.
There they go
Trying to keep up, the majority of the sheep chasing after Nelson. For a brief moment, just one sheep stands there watching the event unfold. But eventually, it too gets in on the fun.
Role reversal
While livestock is supposed to let the sheepdog guide them, this time, things quickly spiraled out of control. Before you know it, Nelson is being chased at full-speed. He’s zig-zagging everywhere with the animals right behind him. In the background, you can hear his owner snickering.
Let’s just say that while Nelson is adorable, being a sheepdog just isn’t his thing. In fact, he gets an “F” for being the worst sheepdog in history. If you need a good laugh, check out the video below.
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