LACHLAN Graham has been breeding dogs for his Harden operation, Argyle Pastoral, for about 15 years.
He looks for dual purpose dogs to move the stock on his mixed cattle and sheep enterprise.
"We have a big breeding herd and finishing cattle and a big Merino flock," he said.
With truck, yard and paddock work all just a part of every day life, Mr Graham looks for a multipurpose dog to help him get the work done about the farm.
He said he wanted a dog that could work a long race as well as be used in a truck.
"You need a good mix," he said.
"Working dogs are important as we use them for mustering, in the yards when handling the sheep and when loading and unloading our stock trucks."
He said he started breeding dogs as it was more satisfying breeding a pup and training it from scratch than buying one.
He said Kelpies were his pick of breed, but he also used Border Collies and Blue Heelers.
"I prefer the Kelpie due to their temperament, ability and stamina."
Mr Graham has seven working dogs at the moment and three puppies.
They are predominantly Kelpies, but there are two Border Collies in the mix and one Blue Heeler cross, which is 20 per cent Blue Heeler and 75pc Kelpie.
- See this week's The Land for a look at if working dogs should have estimated breeding values (EBVs).
WORKING DOGS: Louise Hudson, Geurie, Frank Singleton, Cobar, Anne Wherry, Glossodia, and Phil Hudson, Geurie. Click this photo to see more photos in our online gallery.
