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Herding Dogs

Family: Canidae Border Collie Canis familiaris Photo © Animal-World: Courtesy Justin Brough

   Herding Dogs are adored for their intelligence and beauty!

   The Herding Dogs are loyal and affectionate companions. Originally these dogs were bred primarily for use on farms. Herding dog breeds were developed to control livestock, with each type being uniquely suited to country where it worked. They were used to move the animals between fields, rescue strays from rugged terrain, and drive the livestock to market. Some were also guard dogs, used as guardians to protect livestock from predators.

   Herding Dogs have a lot of energy and love group work and play. They make superb pets for families that enjoy energetic activities. These dogs have great personalities and are appreciated for their keen intelligence and because they are highly trainable.

Click on the small images below,
To access information on each of type of Herding Dog:

Herding Dog Breeds
Australian Cattle Dog	Australian Shepherd
Canis lupus familiaris	Canis lupus familiaris
Beauceron	Belgian Malinois
Canis lupus familiaris	Canis lupus familiaris
Border Collie	Bouvier des Flandres
Canis lupus familiaris	Canis lupus familiaris
Cardigan Welsh Corgi	Collie (Smooth or Rough)
Canis lupus familiaris	Canis lupus familiaris
German Shepherd Dog	Old English Sheepdog
Canis lupus familiaris	Canis lupus familiaris
Shetland Sheepdog
Canis lupus familiaris

Dog Breed Information:
   Each of the herding dog types was developed for the unique region where they worked, with some being quite adept at gathering strays from rugged terrain. Many would worked independently, but others worked in close harmony with their keepers, developing the close relationship between man and dog. Herding dog types are medium to large in size.

   There are a number of sports that the herding dogs excel in, including agility, obedience, and flyball. Due to the nature of their breeding, they are also quite adept at herding trials and tracking. Those with the right disposition and socialization can also excel at some jobs such as therapy dogs or as assistance dogs to people with disabilities. With an ability to act as guard dogs, some also work as police dogs.

Dog Types: Popular Herding Dog Breeds
   Some of the herding dogs are still used for work today. But as they make loyal and affectionate companions, most are a favorite family pet. Some of the most popular Herding dog breeds include:

• German Shepherd
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Pembroke Welch Corgi
• Australian Shepherd
• Collie
• Border Collie
• Old English Sheepdog
• Australian Cattle Dog
• Cardigan Welsh Corgi
• Bouvier des Flandres.

Dog Care Tips:
   These dogs are high energy dogs. Herding dogs need an activity to focus on. It is important to provide them with a job that will keep them both physically and mentally stimulated. If they aren't given a job, there is a very good chance they will find their own, which may be chewing or digging up the garden.

   Herding dog breeds are not aggressive, but they were bred as herding dogs and sometimes as guard dogs. Because they were bred to move animals much larger than they are, they are not easily intimidated. Some may have a tendency towards nipping and herding.

   Training and socialization is important, and they will respond well with positive reinforcement. They require an owner that is dedicated to providing them with training and a focus. These intelligent animals are enthusiastic learners and will readily adapt to a variety of stimulating activities.

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