Muster Dogs’ champion shares working dog expertise

Frank Finger, the winner of the first season of the Muster Dogs television series in central Queensland, Australia, now devotes much of his time to a working dog school on his property.

For over 30 years, Finger has trained working dogs, and he now prioritises teaching others how to do the same.

He holds weekend-long sessions several times a year, guiding dog owners and trainers through the essential skills needed to develop capable working dogs, with a focus on the critical first 16 weeks of a pup’s life. Since 2021, Finger’s school has hosted more than 1,000 attendees from across Australia and as far away as England and the United States.

His son, Scott, now leads most of the training sessions, and both men emphasize the importance of the trainer’s own skills alongside the dog’s development. Trainer Jonty Beney credits Finger’s mentorship with improving his own abilities, noting that Finger encourages initiative and supports the success of others. The community of Clermont, where Finger lives, recently honoured his contributions with a mural depicting him and his celebrated kelpie, Annie, who passed away last year along with his wife, Cathy.

Local officials and residents alike see the artwork as a fitting tribute to a man who has greatly benefited the region and embodies the principle that a love for dogs is essential to successful training.