THESE dogs could be the next David ‘Barkham’ in the making as they try their paws at — football.

Treibball, a doggy version of football, is sweeping Bury.

And these hounds are already proving experts at the new canine sport.

Top dog training coach Jane Ardern, who runs the Treibball classes at Wagga Wuffins in Bury, said the sport, called treibball is a great way for dogs to keep fit while nurturing their instincts.

The idea of the game, which also helps pooches nuture their herding instincts, sees dogs get as many balls into the back of the net as possible.

Ms Ardern said: “Border collies have an instinct to herd sheep, but we don’t have many sheep in Bury town centre, so this is the next best thing — and they love it.”

In Treibball, eight beachballs are placed in a triangle shape in front of a set of mini football nets.

Trainers must first order their dogs to ‘herd’ the balls by circling them a number of times before pushing them into the goal.

The fastest dog to score with all the balls wins.

Ms Ardern, who runs the training school at the Britannia Mill in Samuel Street, said the game was fun but owners would need a lot of patience to train their dog to take part.

She said: “It’s a very popular activity in America and, when a friend told me about it, I thought why not give it a go and start teaching it here? Dogs get a lot of good exercise and take to it well.

“Trainers have to have a lot of patience but they find it very rewarding at the end of a game.”

Sarah Brady, aged 18, of Whitefield, whose border collie Samson plays Treibball, said: “Samson loves to play and he’s getting quite good at it. He’s taught to push the ball with his legs and shoulders so it is good exercise — and he gets treats when he plays well.”

n To find out about treibball and dog discipline classes call 0161 762 0174.