How to train your sheepdog: program offers teens new pathways out of trouble

The winning Rufftracks dog completes a jump. Source: SBS

Teenagers who have been struggling in school are being given the opportunity to train sheep dogs. The RuffTrack program aims to improve participants' confidence and communication skills. The teens have been recently been competing with their furry friends at the Royal Easter Show in Sydney.

The youngsters spend 10 weeks building up to shows like this, training with their dog day in, day out.

In turn, the dogs teach the children responsibility, compassion and conflict resolution and they're always there to listen.

This is one of four similar sheep dog programs run across the country, funded by donations.

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