Two border collies are working to keep Canada geese off a World Cup training pitch in Toronto [1].

Maintaining a pristine field is critical for the safety and performance of visiting teams during the 2026 tournament. Geese can foul the turf, creating hazards or hygiene issues that could disrupt elite athlete preparations.

Ben and Sally, the two dogs deployed for the task [1], were active on the pitch on June 25, 2026 [2]. Their presence serves as a non-lethal deterrent to prevent birds from congregating on the grass. The dogs use their natural herding instincts to move the geese away from the playing area, ensuring the surface remains clear.

Toronto is serving as a key location for the 2026 World Cup, hosting various national teams for their final training sessions. The use of working dogs is a practical solution to manage local wildlife without relying on chemical deterrents or physical barriers that might interfere with the pitch's layout.

Organizers have focused on creating an optimal environment for the visiting squads. By utilizing the specific skills of border collies, the facility can maintain the high standards required for international competition. The strategy aims to keep the pitch clean and safe for the duration of the teams' stay in Canada [1].

“Two border collies are working to keep Canada geese off a World Cup training pitch in Toronto.”

The deployment of working dogs highlights the logistical challenges of hosting mega-events in urban environments where local wildlife can interfere with professional sports infrastructure. It demonstrates a preference for biological solutions over industrial ones to maintain the strict quality standards required by FIFA for World Cup training facilities.