“Bite work”

My opinion is, especially with the herding/ shepherd breeds, that they naturally have a need to protect. If they feel that there is a situation that needs to be addressed and their handler is not addressing it, they will.

"Bite work" or "aggression control", as I've heard it called, in an attempt to make it sound more politically correct, is more than just politically correct. I feel like it is truly a more accurate description. It is, again my opinion, a "level up" in Obedience and Control. Working this level of obedience and control can bring more stability by understanding what the dog team needs and to be disciplined in their communications.

Some people continue to confuse bite work with mean, aggressive dogs, allowed to bite someone, either indiscriminately or as a scripted routine. Mean dogs can be a dangerous liability. Agressive dogs, without control, can be a liability. Controlled aggression requires clear communication and teamwork. In this work, the handler should establish and maintain control of any situation, until as a last resort, the dog is allowed to do what comes natural, protect.

I don't believe all dogs require or are able to do this type of work but those that are capable, should. They are dogs, that can and will bite. Why not teach them situations when it's allowable?

Ultimately it's your decision to work a dog in this realm but if you decide to do it, I would warn that it should not be a part time deal. It should be done, like any other discipline, as consistently as possible and should be worked with the most serious of intentions.