NEW ZEALAND’S fastest mustering dogs are invited to enter the 2023 Cobber Challenger, a trans-Tasman competition that compares working dog outputs over three of their busiest weeks.
Canine competitors are given a GPS collar that tracks their distance, working duration and speed in a three-week period.
Points are allocated, tallied up, the dogs are ranked and by the end of the challenge we have a new champion.
The dog that clocks up the most kilometres will take home honour, glory and a cash prize, while each participant will receive a year’s supply of Cobber Working Dog petfood.
Herding dogs play a crucial role in the agriculture industry, contributing an estimated $40,000 worth of farm work throughout their lives.
Cobber marketing manager Kellie Savage said this year’s competition will be a chance for farming communities to acknowledge the lifelong commitment of the working dog.
“Working dogs are more than man’s best mate. They’re also a farmer’s colleague, partner-in-crime, and an extension of the family.
“They should be celebrated.
“In previous years, individual dogs have reached more than 50 kilometres in a single day, so we’re excited about what this year’s Cobber cohort will achieve.”
Australian farmer Daniel Pumpa, a two-time Cobber Challenge competitor, said the contest was a great opportunity to bring some friendly rivalry onto the farm.
“I couldn’t imagine a day’s work without my dogs,” Daniel said.
“They are the most valuable employees I have, and they’re my best mates.
“I’ve competed in the challenge twice over the past eight years and have had an absolute blinder of a time doing it.
“I’d encourage any farmer out there to give it a crack.”
The challenge provides an opportunity to honour these extraordinary canines.
Nominations are open for four weeks and will close on Sunday.
Enter now at cobberchallenge.com.au
