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Simon Leaning
Simon Leaning’s goal is to breed, own and train the finest stockdogs available anywhere in the world
– dogs with all round ability, the temperament for training, and the keenest instinct for work.
A gifted teacher and communicator, Simon gives lessons and
clinics throughout the US and Australia
for dogs and handlers at all levels, providing them simple, intuitive and effective tools they can
use to achieve success in their own training. Key to his approach is ensuring that a dog’s natural
ability and desire to please are not compromised by a punitive or inflexible training process.
Working on the theory that it is important to “explain” clearly to the dog what you want him to
do, Simon teaches the use of clear body language and praise to enhance communication with dogs.
Emphasis is also given to understanding livestock behavior and how it affects stock handling. His
unique approach has proven successful with hundreds of dogs of a variety of breeds.
Simon has formal qualifications in training and assessment,
along with extensive experience teaching and working with disadvantaged children. He draws on
those skills to deliver concise, well organised and structured lessons
at his clinics. Each participant is able to observe and participate in all aspects
and at all levels, ensuring they get maximum benefit from the clinic experience.
Simon’s team of Border Collies and Kelpies are
utility dogs in the true sense - able to adapt to both Yard and paddock situations.
His Border Collies have competed with and beaten the best Kelpies in Australia in
Open Yard and Utility trial competition. His Kelpies have beaten the best
Border Collies in open three-sheep trials. This is testament to their adaptability and all round quality.
Simon is sought after as a presenter, commentating at various events and major sheepdog trials.
His humour, wit and intimate knowledge of dogs and livestock behavior coupled with his ability to
read and adapt to any situation make him an entertaining and authoritative speaker.
Simon is a regular contributor to newspapers and magazines writing entertaining
and interesting stories and articles for a
variety of publications. |