International Sheepdog
Trials 2023 Wicklow

To those of you who are unfamiliar with the world of sheepdog trialling, the International Sheepdog Trial is one of the largest events in the sheepdog calendar. The purpose of a Sheep Dog Trial is to test the abilities of the best working dogs, in an environment close to true working life. The International Sheepdog Trial 2023 will showcase the talents of 60 dogs from across Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales. These 60 dogs will consist of the top 15 dogs selected from each nations National Trial, which take place over July and August. The International Trial itself will consist of two days of qualification, with the top 15 dogs qualifying for the final known as the International Supreme Championship. This final will be held on day 3 of the International Trial, with the largest crowd expected for this day. In addition to the Supreme Championship, there will also be a Brace Championship, which involves two dogs working in harmony with one another. This will take place at lunchtime on day 1 and 2 and will consist of two Brace teams from each Nation, a total of eight Brace teams across the two days. A Young Handler Competition will take place on the final day with one competitor selected from each Nation.