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The Newport Shepherds
Newport, Co. Mayo
Hidden gem
Family friendly
Free car parking
Cloudy days
The Newport Shepherds sheepdog demonstrations and sheepdog training is located at the foot of the Nephin Mountains in Newport, County Mayo. Run by Alan Moran and Paul Walker, both of whom are sheepdog trainers and breeders, and are passionate about dogs, sheep and nature.

The Newport Shepherds are committed to caring for, protecting, and enhancing the nation’s heritage for future generations. Having perfected their skills on the hills of Newport and the Andes, their sheepdog training and demonstration business offers a unique experience in West Mayo.

At The Newport Shepherds, immerse yourself in the world of sheepdogs and mountains, and hear fascinating stories about how their ancestors adapted to working sheep in these mountains of the Wild Atlantic Way.

See a sheepdog demonstration suitable for all ages and backgrounds in their accessible paddock. Enjoy the opportunity to experience the life of a shepherd in Ireland. Train your own dog using their proven methods. Observe skills and training methods that have been handed down through generations. Discover how important sheepdogs are in everyday life in Ireland and how they have been part of the history of humankind.

The Newport Shepherds offer sheepdog training and boarding. The sheepdog training is for all levels of experience and obedience. Their methods have proven successful, both in the mountains and on the trial field. You will see the sheepdogs in all stages of their training, puppies, started dogs and fully trained dogs. Many say that if sheepdogs didn’t exist, the hills and mountains would not be farmed, this shows the true value of the sheepdog. Preserving the heritage of the Irish working sheepdog is their objective.

Their interactive demonstrations involve historically exploring how the Border Collie breed developed in farming over the years. How exceptional these dogs are, the way they learn and the valuable work they do. Watch the dogs complete their daily chores with their sheep. You will also learn about the different breeds of sheep and the importance of their adaptation to the mountains. A circuit of the best sheepdog trials in Ireland can also be arranged for you.

The Newport Shepherds are currently on a nationwide mission to bring farming life and nature back into schools. Whether they bring their mobile show to your school or college, or you choose to come visit them on their traditional sheep farm, they guarantee a memorable experience for all students of all ages. They invite students to work hands on with their sheepdogs. Book the Newport Shepherds and escape the classroom.

Also, a visit to The Newport Shepherds is a great choice for a team that is looking for something a little different. Groups get to work with highly trained sheepdogs, experience the thrill of having a sheepdog under their command and also get to try their own hand at sheep herding. What better way to engage your team than a day in the outdoors enjoying the landscape.

Located just 3km from Newport on the Achill Road (F28 NY10) and The Newport Shepherds are signposted on The Wild Atlantic Way (N59). The Great Western Greenway also runs adjacent to the centre and there is ample parking for cars, buses, bikes.

The Newport Shepherds welcome you to join them for a memorable experience for all ages and interests.

Tips from locals

A lovely time to visit is in spring when the lambs are born. Children love the experience of feeding them.

Contact details
Knockalegan, Co. Mayo, F28 NY10, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 2 hours here.

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