About

Nij Vyas: Sheepdog trialist achieving global success

With over 36 years of experience, Nij Vyas has established himself as a renowned dog trainer and sheepdog trialist. He has represented England in international trials, garnering worldwide success.

In 2023, he was Reserve English National Brace Champion with Pip and Lara. Also with Lara, he was English National Farmers Champion and Reserve English National Champion in 2022.

Nij emerged as the champion in the inaugural Four Nations Nursery Final in 2018 alongside his talented dog, Cody.

In 2017, Nij was World Sheep Dog Trials Singles semi-finalist with his dog Todd, and won gold for Team England.

Nij has represented England 11 times in a variety of competitions including World Trials, Internationals, Four Nations Championships and the BBC’s One Man and His Dog.

Sheepdog Trials Judge

Nij’s high regard in the industry is evidenced by his valued membership on the ISDS panel of judges. He has officiated renowned events such as the English National Sheepdog Trial and the esteemed BBC programme One Man and His Dog.

Nij also showcased his exceptional skills in both singles and doubles competitions during the 2020 edition of One Man and His Dog.

Published Author

In 2010, Crowood Press published “Sheepdog Training and Trials,” a book that continues to be highly acclaimed. This success prompted the launch of his DVD training guide – Practical Shepherding: A Systematic Guide to Sheepdog Training – in 2015, which quickly gained popularity worldwide.

Boder Collie sheepdog stalking, creeping in a field

Sheepdog Training Philosophy

Nij’s training philosophy places utmost importance on understanding and nurturing the unique strengths and abilities of each dog. This philosophy emphasizes fostering a partnership between handlers and dogs. Nij’s firsthand experience as a farmer, working alongside 160 Swaledale and Scottish Blackface sheep, further reinforces his belief that effective dog training relies on a deep understanding of dogs and their innate capabilities.

Bertie Dog Training (est. 1991)

Nij Vyas and his wife Jo formed Bertie Dog Training in 1991, offering pet dog training for all breeds. His wide experience working with a variety of dogs ensures his knowledge and experience remains progressive and forward-thinking, lending itself and enriching his work with sheep dogs.

Nij is one of very few sheep dog trainers to utilise clicker training as part of his practice which accelerates success by enhancing communication with the dog.