Maximus was born on our farm in Alberta in the mudroom.  We own his parents, Chase and Jill.  Max was the biggest pup in the litter and was irresistible from day one. He grew quickly and showed absolutely no interest in sheep until  he was about 16 months old.  I was beginning to despair when he took interest all at once, showing a very plain style that was all business.

Of all of our dogs, it is Max who is the most predictable on the sheep. His philosophy is that the sheep will move or else.  When the sheep begin to dawdle, one ear will stand up and that is all the notice he will give before he resorts to more persuasive tactics.  Max has no eye to speak of and tends not to upset the sheep.  He likes  to bring ALL of the sheep and can generally be trusted to keep moving and not stall out.  He stops  on his feet and slows down or speeds up when asked (I wish I could say I taught him this, but he has always had a speed control).

This year he was predictable on the trial field and made me look like I know what I'm doing.  We  are working on our drive for the upcoming season and we seem to be getting the hang of holding a   line, at least part of the time.  We enjoyed the trials this year and I received a lot of support and  advice.  Sleeping in my car with the dogs however does have its limits.  Lynn, Liam and Aidan have been a strong supporting cast, looking after the farm and dealing with having Dad gone all summer.  This season should be easier since we are moving to the Kingston area and will not have to drive quite so far to all the trials.