Information for Exhibitors: The Ryedale Show Sheepdog Trials attract competitors from across the region and provide a competitive and enjoyable day of traditional sheepdog work. Entries are limited and early booking is strongly recommended.
Open Sheepdog Trial (Class 1): The Trial will commence promptly at 9:00am in the Sheepdog Trials Field. Competitors may enter up to two dogs, subject to the booking requirements outlined below.
Entry Fee: £5.00 per dog. Prize Money: 1st £50, 2nd £40, 3rd £30, 4th £20, 5th £15, 6th £10. There is also a special prize of £25 for the best dog run before 11:00am.
Points gained count towards the Jack Hollows Memorial Trophy.
Entries are limited. No entries will be accepted on the day. No substitutions or late entries will be permitted. All dogs entered must run and be judged. Competitors may run a maximum of two dogs. Competitors running two dogs must have one dog booked in by 11:00am. All dogs must be booked in by 2:00pm. One free exhibitor admission pass will be issued to each handler competing in Class 1, provided their dog runs in the competition.
Working Sheepdog Classes: During the lunch break in the main trials, exhibitors can also enter the popular Working Sheepdog classes: Class 2 – Smooth Haired Dog or Bitch; Class 3 – Rough Haired Dog or Bitch. These classes are scheduled to begin at approximately 12 noon. No entries will be accepted on the day.
Entry Fee: £1.00. Prize Money: 1st £4, 2nd £3, 3rd £2, 4th £1
🐑 Sheepdog Trials
The Sheepdog Trials are a traditional and much-loved part of the Ryedale Show, showcasing the remarkable skill, intelligence and teamwork between shepherd and dog.
Throughout the day, visitors can watch experienced handlers guide their dogs through a series of tasks designed to demonstrate the practical skills used in everyday sheep farming. Trials test the dog’s ability to gather, control and manoeuvre sheep calmly and accurately, responding to whistles and commands from the handler, often from considerable distances.
The competition highlights the natural instincts, training and discipline of working sheepdogs, with competitors travelling from across the region to take part. For many visitors, the sheepdog trials provide a fascinating insight into traditional hill farming and the important role working dogs continue to play in agriculture today.
Whether you are familiar with sheepdog work or watching for the first time, the trials are always an enjoyable and impressive spectacle for all ages.
⭐ What to Watch
Dogs responding instantly to whistle commands
Precise gathering and handling of sheep
The partnership and trust between handler and dog
Young and experienced dogs competing throughout the day
Traditional working skills still used on farms today
🐾 A Traditional Countryside Favourite
Set against the backdrop of the showground, the Sheepdog Trials offer a wonderful opportunity to experience one of the most skilled and traditional aspects of rural life, making them a favourite attraction with both farming families and visitors alike.