Elliott kills rats, mice, and squirrels. He is very good at keeping pests out of my chicken feed. He is trust worthy around my own chickens, but will chase the neighbors chickens if they come in my yard. He is fine around cats, other dogs, and children. He has helped chase a coyote out of my yard who was trying to get into my chicken coup. He will not let strangers come in through the side gate unless there is a family member to tell her to let them in. Does not growl or bite, but holds his ground and barks. He keeps hawks out of my yard. He has traveled back and forth from city to farm, and has done fine in both environments. Very good "mothering" instinct, he is in love with babies both human and animal. I will be taking him to herding classes in the next couple months and will update with how he does.