Article: Working like a Dog; A necessity in agriculture, sheep herding has developed into a sport for the handlers, border collies and livestock that compete in sheep dog trials throughout the country.(SPORTS)

They are given names such as Jill, Joe, Meech, Tater and Gnat. But, if you listen to the people who most admire the stars of their sport, those small, furry creatures might just as well be called Willie Mays.

Their sport doesn't involve bats or balls, paddles or skis. But the hobbyists, farmers and ranchers who travel the Midwest and the country to compete in sheep dog trials at county fairs and specialty trials contend theirs is legitimate competition: a three-way dance between human, border collie and livestock that requires a combination of skill, instinct and training to drive sheep along straight lines across a 450-yard timed course.

"The best dogs ...

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