The flock is nearer to the yard this winter. And when the weather is windy and cold they stay on the hay feed rather then stretching their legs on a walkabout. When the flock is stationery it is a much simple matter for them to be protected then when they are well dispersed during summer grazing or have wee lambs at foot. The season and what the flock is up to determines the workload for the guardian dogs. Hence, flocks reared intensively and not ever straying far from a building have little need for several guardian dogs.
I do think guardian dogs experience stretches of boredom, particularly in the winter months when the flock is moving far less than they normally would. More often than not when the kelpies and I are out and about in the yard one of both of the two younger guardian dogs will appear. On this particular morning Birdie trots through, picks a lookout ridge at the edge of the yard, and settles in for a spell. The sheep flock is a short jaunt to the right, completely out of sight from the yard, and kelpies, but within quick reach for her if need arises. And there are a couple other dogs with the flock; these two older dogs seldom leave their charges. This dog is Birdie, she’s the one who joins me for winter walks but ceases ones the weather warms and increased activity on the pasture requires her attention once more.
There isn’t much that can be done for seasonally bored guardian dogs. I used to not allow guardian dogs to walk with me and the kelpies but I realize that it probably helps them be less bored. And if the flock were at risk I trust the two youngsters wouldn’t be joining me because I have a good sense that they understand their role as guardian dogs. There is a subtle but important distinction to make between a dog who understands their role of guardian for the flock, and a dog who does not and is instead preferring to be a yard dog. The ultimate sign that whether or not whatever is going on with guardian dogs is working is if the flock is safe and unbothered.