Diggers Herding & K9 Education

Rosie, Dylan race to glory

KELPIES are a man's best friend for Diggers Rest's Geoff Burling and Dave Higgins.

Their kelpies Rosie and Dylan were named champions at the recent Australian Kelpie Muster in Casterton.

Six-year-old Rosie won first place in the triathlon, completing the high jump, 50-metre sprint and steep hill climb in record time. She also won the event in 2008.

"The dog has to do most of the work," Mr Burling said.

But Rosie, one of a family of six dogs, gets extra attention for her efforts.

 "She's my girl. She's a little princess, the star."

Dylan the "Wonder Dog" has been mastering his "psychic" powers over 10 years to win the event's Kelpie Idol title for the sixth year in a row.

He has been trained to entertain a crowd with a range of tricks, including being able to identify the number on a card chosen by a member of the audience by barking.

The two men run a working dog training school, Diggers Herding and K9 Education, at a property on Edwards Road.

Mr Burling says kelpies are the best.

"They are loyal, they are always by your side. They are great pets and great working dogs. They are an all-rounder."

Rosie, Dylan race to glory

22 Jun, 2010 12:00 AM Melton Express Telegraph