The internet has been captivated by the amazing teamwork displayed by two border collies who efficiently herded sheep in mere seconds with just simple commands from their owner, Sean Hannah. Hannah, a 29-year-old shepherd in rural Scotland, oversees 700 ewes and lambs, as well as 100 cows and their calves, with the assistance of his collies Storm and Echo, as well as his older dog Kate, who is now semi-retired. Each of his dogs was bred and raised by Hannah, with Storm and Echo being mother and son, spanning three generations of the same family. The border collie breed is known for its work ethic, intelligence, and herding instincts, making them essential on many farms worldwide and popular as family pets.
Hannah’s dogs are both working dogs and pets, which means they spend their days in the fields before unwinding in the evenings, a routine that suits the breed well. Hannah explained that his dogs view their work as a fun game and enrichment, rather than a chore, reflecting their natural instincts honed through upbringing and observation of older dogs. Training begins when they are puppies, allowing their instincts to develop naturally by interacting with stock and learning from older dogs. The TikTok account @seanthesheepman features videos of Hannah’s dogs helping him with the sheep, with one clip gaining over 330,000 likes in a week. It showcases Storm and Echo leveraging their herding skills to corral sheep swiftly and efficiently, underlining the bond and training the dogs share with Hannah.
The training of working collies is centered on building word associations and specific commands or actions, which can take up to two years to fully establish. Whistle commands supplement voice commands, allowing for better communication over long distances and adverse weather conditions. Hannah praised the breed for their intellect and inherent love for the job, noting that they desire mental and physical stimulation without needing to be coerced or bribed. Despite their traits as excellent working dogs, he warned that border collies may not be ideal pets for individuals seeking a more relaxed lifestyle, as they require constant engagement and activity. While Hannah admires their loyalty and affection as pets, he emphasizes the breed’s need for purpose and occupation.
TikTok users expressed amazement at the dogs’ speed and efficiency, with many praising their abilities and performance in herding sheep. Viewers were particularly impressed by the distance covered in a brief span of time, highlighting the dogs’ agility and skill in executing commands. While Hannah did not anticipate the significant following his videos garnered, he believes the channel’s authenticity, showcasing both mistakes and successes, contributes to its appeal. His primary goal is to spread positive vibes and dispel negative stereotypes about farming and farmers, emphasizing that the majority of farmers prioritize the welfare of their animals. By portraying the working dogs and farming practices in a positive light, Hannah hopes to alter public perceptions and promote understanding and appreciation for the agriculture industry.
Overall, the story of Sean Hannah and his talented border collies Storm and Echo showcases the exceptional bond between humans and animals, highlighting the intelligence, skills, and dedication of working dogs in the agricultural setting. Through his TikTok videos, Hannah offers glimpses into the daily lives of farmers and their devoted canine companions, showcasing the teamwork and mutual respect essential for successful herding and farming operations. The heartwarming tale of Hannah and his collies serves as a testament to the invaluable role that animals play in various industries and their capacity to forge strong connections with their human counterparts.
