Raspberry Ridge Sheep Farm

Training programs include weekly group classes such as Sunday Morning Herding Clinics and Greenhorn Herding Clinics for beginners, as well as multi-day intensive camps (e.g., Tough Dog Camp, Catch On Camp, Tending/Herding Boot Camp). Programs are structured around real sheep interactions, with sequential progression from instinct tests to advanced herding lessons. Classes are offered in series (e.g., “VIII (1)”, “I (1)”) indicating repeated cycles. Specialized clinics address aggression, nosework, attention, and recall. All programs are open to all breeds and are sponsored by the Slate Belt Herding Organization and ATBA.

Pricing Summary

Training programs vary by type and duration; intensive camps like Tough Dog Camp and Tending/Herding Boot Camp are offered in 5-day formats, with a discounted 4-day “Short Stack” option priced at $900. Herding Instinct Tests and clinics are offered at regular intervals with no public pricing listed, but payment is processed through their online system after registration.

Policies

No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policies are stated on the website. Registration and payment are handled through their online portal, and schedules are updated weekly. Clients are advised to check the website for updates as the business does not respond to phone or email inquiries.

Raspberry Ridge Sheep Farm is a dog training facility located on a working sheep farm that specializes in herding-based training for all dog breeds. They offer group classes and private lessons focused on herding instincts, behavior modification, and foundational obedience, using real sheep and farm environments to provide authentic, immersive training experiences. Their programs include Herding Instinct Tests, Greenhorn Herding Clinics for beginners, and intensive camps like Tough Dog Camp and Tending/Herding Boot Camp. Trainers such as Sierra and Carolyn are highlighted for their ability to tailor lessons to individual dogs’ needs, especially for herding breeds like Corgis and Australian Shepherds. The farm also offers nosework, recall training, and aggression management classes. Unique advantages include hands-on learning with live livestock, access to sheep herding trials, and the opportunity to observe and work with dogs in a natural, stimulating environment. Additional services include a bed and breakfast for out-of-town clients and locally sourced cheese from their creamery.

The facility is not a traditional urban training center but a rural farm setting that provides unparalleled real-world exposure for dogs with strong herding drives. Clients report significant improvements in focus, recall, and behavior after training here, particularly for dogs that struggle with chasing deer or over-excitement. The business is operated by experienced handlers affiliated with the Slate Belt Herding Organization and the American Tri-Breed Association (ATBA).

While they do not offer grooming, boarding, or walking services, their focus on herding, behavior, and instinct development makes them a specialized choice for owners of working, sporting, or high-energy breeds seeking authentic, farm-based training.

Accomplishments

Hosts regular ATBA-licensed AKC herding trials and Slate Belt Herding Organization events. Offers Herding Instinct Tests and training seminars aligned with national herding standards. Trainers are affiliated with recognized herding organizations and have facilitated hundreds of dogs through instinct testing and advanced herding programs.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients should visit the website to review the upcoming monthly schedule, select a class or clinic (e.g., Herding Instinct Test or Greenhorn Herding), and register via the online portal. Payment is processed after registration. No in-person consultation is mentioned; enrollment is based on available class slots.