The only appropriate way for border collies to correct a rebellious or defiant sheep is to bite him or her on the nose, it is their most sensitive spot – they wouldn’t feel it on the wool. After Samson trampled and butted him, Red nipped him on the nose, drawing blood, and then Samson wavered. Red did not.

He got into Samson’s  face and backed him right into the stall, where we were trying to get him and the two ewes so we could get halters and ropes on them. Samson turned and ran there, and Griselle and Biddy ran after him – neither one wanted to face Red without their ram. Red had done the job and won the day. A wonderful dog.