The Herding Dogs

As the name implies, these herding dogs excel at controlling the movements of other animals. They are intelligent, hard-working dogs which were originally bred to herd cattle, sheep, and other domestic animals under the supervision of a shepherd. Many of these dogs are still used for their utility in their native countries. There are two types of dogs that fall under this herding category—cattle and sheep herding dogs and sheep herders.

Cattle and Sheep Herding Dogs

The cattle and sheep herding dogs moved sheep and cattle over long distances and usually without any human direction. These dogs have a solid and stocky build. They can be unpredictable, aggressive, and reserved with strangers. Despite its size, Corgis are able to herd cattle by leaping and nipping at their heels.

Although they make good companion dogs but if they aren’t given a job, they have a tendency to herd young children or even your residential cat! These traits, however, can be prevented through proper training and early socialization.

List of Cattle/Sheep Herding Dogs:

1. Australian Cattle Dog
2. Bouvier des Flanders
3. Briard
4. Canaan Dog
5. Cardigan Welsh Corgi*
6. Pembroke Welsh Corgi*

Sheep Herders

The other type of dogs in the herding group are the sheep herders. These dogs were bred to move the flock except for German Shepherd who is able to guard as well as herd. They are alert, agile, and very athletic. For example, Border Collie are renowned for its intelligence and energy. Nonetheless, these sheep herding dogs are great at obeying commands from a distance.

These herding dogs are affectionate to their family but suspicious of strangers. When properly trained, these dogs usually get along well with children. They need plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise, in another words they do best if they have a job to do. Set some time to socialize and train this breed on herding or other constructive exercise.

List of Sheep Herding Dogs:

1. Australian Shepherd
2. Bearded Collie
3. Belgian Malinois
4. Belgian Sheepdog
5. Belgian Tervuren
6. Border Collie
7. Collie
8. German Shepherd Dog
9. Old English Sheepdog
10. Polish Lowland Sheepdog
11. Puli*
12. Shetland Sheepdog

Conclusion: Herding dogs are often active and require firm, positive, and consistent training. They do best in a home under experienced owner. I highly recommend owners who have the time and energy to keep up with them. Some of the highly intense herders must be given a job otherwise they will find one on their own and usually the ones you are not in favor of i.e. chewing at the table’s legs.

Of course, it’s not the end of the world for those suburb and urban dwellers. You can always enroll these herding dogs in agility classes and Flyball. As a matter of fact, some of them are top performers in these types of classes and activities.