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Herding dogs are a type of working dog originally bred to gather, manage, and protect livestock like sheep and cattle. Herding breeds are known for their speed, agility, and ability to work on any terrain. Even the smaller ones are strong and muscular, carrying themselves with pride.
These dogs are incredibly perceptive, responding to the slightest hand signals or whistle commands to move a flock or find strays. Some herding dogs bark, circle, and nip at the heels to guide the flock, while others use a silent, effective stare to get the job done.
These dogs are not just about livestock; they’re versatile protectors and can serve in many roles. Whether as guards, in the military, in law enforcement, or for personal protection, herding breeds have a close bond with humans.
Living on a farm isn’t a requirement to enjoy the companionship of a herding dog. These active, loyal, and intelligent pups have been working alongside humans for thousands of years and will want to be helpful to you from day one. Keep reading to learn more about seven amazing types of herding dogs!
Types of Herding Dogs
1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, or Pembroke for short, is one of the world’s most beloved herding dog breeds. Originating in Pembrokeshire, Wales, as early as 1107 A.D., Pembrokes were initially bred to herd cattle and sheep, playing a significant role in Britain’s carpeting, textile, and tapestry industries.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, famously favored by Queen Elizabeth II, is known for its intelligence and popularity. This loyal and affectionate breed is spirited and dependable but can also be quite stubborn. Often described as impish and entertaining, Corgis are sometimes called “big dogs in small bodies.”
While they generally get along well with kids, their herding instincts might cause them to nip or try to herd children if they aren’t sufficiently stimulated. Orvis notes that they might also lack the patience of non-herding breeds. Pembrokes are vigilant and will alert you to any trespassers, taking their role as protectors very seriously.
Corgis adapt well to both rural and urban environments, provided they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks throughout the day are essential. They can live in apartments, though they tend to bark at any sign of danger, whether real or imagined.
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and active medium-sized dogs with strong herding instincts and agile, muscular builds. Despite their name, the development of the Australian Shepherd likely began with dogs from the Pyrenees Mountains and continued in North America.
Ranchers have long favored Australian Shepherds for their intelligence, strong herding abilities, and adaptability. These dogs are particularly suited to the Rocky Mountains due to their tolerance for the altitude and climate. Known for their loyalty and friendliness, Aussies may take some time to warm up to strangers.
Their herding background gives them a prey drive, making them enthusiastic about games like fetch and Frisbee. However, this drive can also lead them to chase moving objects such as children, cats, cars, and wheeled items like scooters, bikes, and golf carts. With early socialization, Australian Shepherds can get along well with cats, children, and other dogs.
They are highly energetic and maintain their energy levels well into adulthood and sometimes even into their senior years. Without proper outlets for their energy, Aussies may develop destructive behaviors like digging and chewing. According to PetMD, regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential to keep these lively dogs happy and well-behaved.
3. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd Dog was first bred in 1899 by Max von Stephanitz. Originally intended to herd sheep and protect flocks from predators, this breed has evolved into a versatile working dog, excelling in police, guard, and military roles. German Shepherds are strong, muscular, and agile, with confident and fearless personalities that are not hostile.
Their confidence makes them excellent watchdogs, service dogs, herding dogs, and guard dogs. German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and desire to be close to their owners. They are affectionate, dedicated, and eager to work and learn.
This herding breed can bond well with children and enjoys being part of a family rather than being left alone. With proper training and care, they make wonderful family pets. However, without enough mental and physical exercise, German Shepherds can become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors.
WebMD notes that these dogs need plenty of space to run and play. They require at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise daily to meet their physical and mental needs. This can include long walks, jogging, playing fetch, and interactive games or training sessions. Providing them with these activities helps keep them happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
4. Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund is an affectionate and energetic dog originally bred to herd cattle on ranches and farms. These charming little herders have been around since the time of the Vikings over 1,000 years ago. These rugged dogs are famous for their zest for life, unique vocalizations, and cheerful demeanor.
With their thick coat and sturdy build, Vallhunds are just as comfortable in a suburban backyard as they were on Viking longships. Their long and low stature, similar to their distant cousins, the Corgis, helps them nip at the heels of cattle while avoiding kicks.
Swedish Vallhunds are generally very affectionate and thrive with early socialization to become more confident and outgoing. While they may bark excessively, this can be managed with proper training. Vallhunds loves to work alongside its owners, making positive, reward-based training methods very effective.
As working farm dogs, Swedish Vallhunds need regular exercise. AKC highlights that a good daily walk, combined with activities like playing fetch or participating in dog sports, is usually sufficient for most Vallhunds, although some may require more.
5. Border Collie
Dogs have been used to herd animals for centuries, but the Border Collie is truly a master of this task. While the exact origins of the Border Collie are unclear, it is believed they were developed on farms along the border of Scotland and England, where they were primarily used to herd sheep and other grazing animals. The Border Collie is renowned for its intense stare, known as the “eye,” which it uses to control and herd livestock.
Border Collies are often considered the most intelligent of all dog breeds and require constant mental stimulation. They are bred to herd, and they will herd anything—sheep, other dogs, or even children. Due to their strong herding instincts, they may not get along well with other pets in the home.
These dogs have boundless energy and a high drive to work, necessitating plenty of exercise and mental engagement. Without sufficient stimulation, they can become destructive. Border Collies have an overactive mind and often stand and stare at their owners, waiting for the next task.
They make loyal and dependable companions, always eager to please and work alongside their owners. They will happily play and train for as long as you are willing and then cuddle with you at home to rest for the next day’s activities. While they are loving and eager to please, they can be wary of strangers, both human and animal.
6. Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog, originating from West England in the late 1700s, is believed to have been developed by crossing a local drover’s dog with a Bearded Collie. They were initially bred to protect livestock from predators and herd them to market. This large breed is known for its devoted and sweet-natured disposition, making it a wonderful family dog that loves being around people.
Training should start early with Old English Sheepdogs, as they can be boisterous and headstrong. They are generally good with other dogs and strangers but can be protective of their families. These dogs are known for their endearing habit of nudging for attention or climbing onto laps for cuddles, often forgetting their size.
Old English Sheepdogs don’t do well when left alone, as they become very attached to their owners and can get stressed if left behind. According to PDSA, they are best suited for homes where someone is around most of the time. With their high energy levels, Old English Sheepdogs thrive in active households. They enjoy outdoor activities, so a large, secure garden or walks in open spaces are ideal for them.
7. Australian Cattle Dog
In the early 1800s, as vast areas of Australia opened up for grazing cattle, there was a need for a dog capable of herding over long distances. In 1840, a man named Thomas Hall crossbred Blue Merle Highland Collies with tame Dingoes, producing the first Australian Cattle Dogs, known as Hall’s Heelers. These dogs excelled at covering extensive ranges through dense and rough terrain, using their mouths to herd wild cattle and nipping to direct them.
Australian Cattle Dogs (ACDs) are highly intelligent and among the easiest breeds to train. They are working dogs that require both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Early socialization is crucial to prevent their tendency to nip at small children. ACDs need a job to do to avoid boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. They are protective of their family and home, making them excellent watchdogs.
ACDs are obedient but can be aggressive with other dogs and will bite if treated harshly or abused. Their tireless energy makes them wonderful running or jogging partners, and they require a substantial amount of daily exercise. ACDs dislike being left alone for long periods and are best suited to individuals with outdoor jobs where dogs can be part of daily activities. They thrive on companionship and will repay their owners with unwavering loyalty and devotion.
Conclusion
The herding group includes a variety of intelligent and energetic breeds like Australian Shepherds and the German Shepherd, each excelling in their roles as herders, family dogs, and working dogs.
These breeds, recognized by the American Kennel Club, are known for their ability to manage beef cattle and other animals, making them indispensable farm dogs. Whether serving as family pets or members of the working group, these herding breeds bring loyalty, protection, and a tireless work ethic to their families and farms.
