Frank Finger, the celebrated winner of the first season of the television series ‘Muster Dogs,’ is dedicating his expertise to nurturing the next generation of working dog trainers. Known to many Australians for his success with his kelpie, Annie, Finger is a seasoned grazier from central Queensland with over three decades of experience in training working dogs. Beyond his television fame, he is deeply committed to imparting the extensive knowledge and practical skills he has accumulated throughout his career.
The Foundation of Effective Dog Training
Finger emphasizes that successful working dogs are not self-made; they require dedicated guidance and training from an early age. “Dogs can’t make themselves,” he stated. “The first 16 weeks of a pup’s life is the most important time, that’s where they learn the manners.” This foundational period, he explains, is critical for instilling the essential behaviors and discipline that working dogs need.
Weekend Training Sessions: A Hub for Learning
To share his insights, Finger regularly hosts intensive weekend training sessions at his property in Clermont, Queensland. These sessions are designed for both novice and experienced handlers and their dogs, offering a practical, hands-on learning environment. The composition of attendees varies, ensuring each school presents unique challenges and learning opportunities. “Sometimes there’ll be a lot of young pups, sometimes there’ll be a lot of old dogs, sometimes there’ll be overeager dogs,” Finger observed. “So, every school is slightly different because the people are different.” These tailored approaches allow for personalized instruction, catering to the specific needs of each dog and handler team.
A Global Reach and Growing Community
The impact of Finger’s training program extends far beyond his local community. Since 2021, his workshops have attracted over 1,000 participants from across Australia and internationally. This widespread interest underscores the demand for effective working dog training methods. “It’s very humbling, very overwhelming,” Finger reflected on the program’s success. He noted instances of participants traveling great distances, including one individual from Liverpool, England, and significant interest from regions like Texas in the United States, highlighting the program’s international appeal.
Cultivating Future Trainers
While Finger continues to lead many of the training sessions, his primary focus is on developing future trainers. His son, Scott Finger, plays a significant role, instructing the majority of the school’s attendees. Scott shares his father’s passion for the work, finding it deeply rewarding to witness the progress of participants. “Even people coming you know for their fourth or fifth time to our schools and seeing… the progress they’ve made working their dogs on the livestock,” he commented.
Scott also points out that the training benefits handlers as much as their dogs. “People think they come here for a pup starting school, it’s more so to get themselves right too,” he explained. “Whether it be their demeanour or… something like that, they can just… take it all on board and it’ll all fall into place.” This holistic approach addresses the handler’s mindset and approach, recognizing that effective training involves both the human and canine elements.
Mentorship and Empowerment
Jonty Beney, a trainer who has been learning from Frank Finger for the past four years, including preparation for agricultural show circuits, attests to the empowering nature of the mentorship. “He [Frank] always wants people to step up and have a go and not wait to be told to do something,” Beney said. This encouragement fosters confidence and proactive learning among participants, enabling them to become more independent and capable trainers.
Community Recognition and a Lasting Tribute
In recognition of his significant contributions to the community and his leadership in working dog training, Frank Finger was honored with a water tank mural in his hometown of Clermont. The artwork, located in the town center, depicts Finger on his quad bike alongside his beloved kelpie, Annie, against the backdrop of a classic Clermont sunset. The mural, a project spearheaded by Finger’s sister-in-law, Marg Finger, and the Clermont Tourism Committee, took a decade to realize.
Marg Finger described the tribute as a “no-brainer,” stating, “He’s done a lot of work for our community and everybody’s proud he’s up there.” Committee chair Janine Williams added that the mural is a source of pride for both locals and visitors, with many drivers expressing their admiration for the artwork. The mural serves as a lasting tribute to Finger’s dedication and his profound connection with his working dogs.
The Heart of Working Dog Training: A Love for Dogs
For Frank Finger, the mural also encapsulates the most crucial element of successful working dog training: a genuine affection for the animals. “If you don’t love dogs, it doesn’t kind of work. You’ve got to like your dogs,” he asserted. This fundamental principle guides his training philosophy and underscores the deep bond between handler and dog that is essential for achieving peak performance and mutual understanding.
The passing of Annie, whom Finger considered the best dog he ever trained, occurred last year, tragically in the same week as the loss of his wife, Cathy. The mural stands not only as a testament to his professional achievements but also as a poignant memorial to his cherished canine companion and his enduring legacy in the world of working dog training.
