Malou Grönwall

Malou is my name and I live with my husband and children on the fantastic island of Gotland. Here at home we have Border collies, lambs, cats and soon also horses (I hope :) )

The focus is mainly to train and use our Border collies in the practical work with the lambs. But when there is time we also compete in herding and spend some time on obedience training and competition. There have been some agility starts too but mostly just because it's so much fun!

The day always starts with an animal check and feeding, then it's a walk with the dogs before the children are dropped off at school / kindergarten. At lunchtime, I often try to get the day's training session with the dogs to then be able to spend time with the children and go for a walk in the evening. Some parts of the year there is more practical work for the dogs than others, and I can say that the practical work is what I am really passionate about. There's no greater feeling than getting to do work with your four-legged friend.

I think the greatest achievement is when the dog can be used in practical work - and of course when the dog becomes an Approved Vallhund... It is a nice receipt for the training and a title that is worn with pride.

In herding, it is the cooperation between dog, handler and lamb. It's such a cool feeling when all three communicate with each other and it flows like a beautiful melody.

In obedience, it's clearly getting the balance right between the whole and the details.

Never give up. See challenges/adversity as a learning experience and dare to ask for help. And don't forget to have fun!

There are many dreams for the future - but right now we are focusing on developing the farm and gradually expanding our lamb herd.

If I'm going to compete, I want to feel prepared. I want to have done my homework and feel that we have trained for this. Then anything can happen at a competition, but the feeling is always better if I feel we have had proper training.

Regular Pro Jacket & the Merino Pilé :)