If you're looking for a hard-working, devoted furry friend, a dog from the herding breed may be perfect choice for you.

There are many herding dog breeds, from a tall German Shepherd to a short corgi, and while these pups are some of the most loyal, they also have traits that may not make them the right choice for certain people and families.

Some of these breeds, such as the border collie, are popular choices for a pet because of their joyful, energetic qualities. Before meeting and falling in love with one, see if their personalities and care requirements match with what you can provide for your new fur baby.

What Are Herding Dogs?

Herding dogs were once classified for their ability to round up different herds of farm animals including cattle, sheep and goats. They were originally turned to ensure that none of the farm animals strayed from their territory, and then would "herd" them together so they would move as one. These dogs were vital to helping farmers tend to their livestock, as well as protect them from predators. There are a number of dogs within the herding classification. Below are just a few of the more common ones:

  • Australian Shepherd
  • Border collie
  • Collie
  • German Shepherd
  • Old English sheepdog
  • Pembroke Welsh corgi
  • Shetland sheepdog

For a full list of breeds within this classification, click the AKC link in the below paragraph.

Temperament

Herding dogs, also classified as working dogs, share characteristics and physical traits, such as agility, speed and loyalty. Overall, they are smart, happy, energetic and athletic animals that need to be active. The American Kennel Club notes, "these intelligent dogs make excellent companions and respond beautifully to training exercises," making them an excellent choice for active individuals and families.

A dog's specific temperament depends upon his breed. The collie, for example, is a sweet and gentle dog (the most famous being television star Lassie, a rough collie). PetMD points out, "Collies are a gentle and predictable breed, rarely misbehaving and easily trainable — which is perfect for families that are unfamiliar with dogs." Collies and other herding dogs retain a strong herding instinct (they especially love to round up young children), that may manifest as nipping or biting at your heels. While this is undesirable behavior, the good news is that dogs in this group are highly trainable, and with time and patience, you can curb your dog's undesirable behavior.

Physical Needs

Traditionally, herding dogs were raised to work on farms and ranches, moving along cows, sheep and goats, but now it's rare that the average household pet interacts with farm animals, particularly pets in urban areas. Despite living the good life in a house or apartment, he is an athletic animal, and hanging out in the living room just won't do. He requires an outlet for his energy.

Therefore, think carefully about your living arrangement and how frequently — and easily — your pup can run around in large, open spaces. Unless you have regular access to a dog park or other outdoor venue that allows dogs to run free, a herding dog may not be the best option for you. He can become restless in cramped quarters, particularly because he has such a strong instinct to herd. Homes with a large, enclosed yard are the perfect environment for a herding dog, where he'll thrive on interaction with his pet parent.

The ideal owner of a herding dog is someone who loves to be outside and to be active. You'll need a lot of energy to keep up with your exuberant pup. Be sure to give your fur baby a job to do so he doesn't get bored!

Care

Generally speaking, you'll care for your herding dog in the same way you would another dog breed. You'll need to provide proper medical care, identification and licensing for your pup, feed him balanced and nutritious meals, follow leash laws and be loyal and patient.

As mentioned earlier, herding dogs are multitasking animals with a lot of energy, so plan to commit to a training program in order to prevent behavioral problems down the road. Herding dogs in particular, find training as fun stimulus to keep them and their minds active, so what you see as teaching lessons, they see as fun.

Grooming requirements are specific to each dog breed. A fluffy Old English sheepdog will need much more work than a short-haired dog. Vetstreet suggests you allow a minimum of 30 minutes per week to give your furry friend a thorough brushing. You'll also find his gorgeous fur all over the house, so factor in extra vacuuming time, too!

Herding dogs are a wonderful option for pet parents and families who have plenty of time and energy to devote to their new furry buddy. In return for welcoming him into your home, he will be your loyal, loving companion. If you are considering a herding pup, don't forget to check out your local animal shelter for possible adoption. In addition, to purebred herding dogs, many shelters have mix breeds that have herding in their lineage and retain many of those characteristics. They can be everything you wanted and you can provide them with a loving home.

Christine O'Brien Christine O'Brien

Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien.

Related articles

Do Dogs Have Periods?

Learn more about if female dogs can have periods, when they can happen and a lot more about their estrus cycle.

How Fatty Acids Can be Healthy for Your Dog

Understand the role that Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids play in your dog's overall health, and how you can ensure they are getting enough.

Dog Scratch Reflex: Why Dogs Kick Their Legs During Belly Rubs

Wondering why your dog's leg kicks when you scratch his belly? Learn about dog scratch reflexes, why they love belly rubs and how it's useful for your vet.

Helping a Dog Hit By a Car

If your dog was hit by a car, learn immediate steps you need to take, how to get him to safety, and signs to watch for even if he has no visible injuries.

Are Cucumbers and Zucchini Safe (& Healthy) for My Dog?

Learn helpful information on whether cucumbers (and zucchini) are a safe & healthy snack for your dog.

Dogs & Ice Cream: The Scoop on Why You Should Avoid It

Dogs eating ice cream: it sounds cute, but is it safe? Learn reasons why ice cream can be dangerous for dogs and discover some yummy dog-safe alternatives.

Odd Behaviors of Dogs: Running in Their Sleep and More

Learn all about your dog's odd sleep behaviors, including snoring, twitching, running in his sleep, and what they all mean.

Does My Dog Have a Food Allergy?

Learn facts about dog food allergies, such as common allergens and causes, and if hypoallergenic dog food can help once you've diagnosed his food allergy.

Helping a New Dog's Anxiety After Coming Home

Anxiety can be a problem for dogs, especially ones new to your family. Learn how common anxiety symptoms like diarrhea can happen & how to help them relax.

Are Dog Vitamins and Supplements a Good Idea for My Dog?

Dog vitamins are not right for every dog. Dig into common types of vitamins your vet might prescribe and why some supplements are not good for your pup.

What Does Dog Pointing Mean?

Why do dogs point? Discover what your dog is telling you with his nose and which breeds are naturally suited for training to point.

Do Dogs Need Shoes & Booties in Summer Heat?

Discover scenarios where dogs can benefit from shoes or booties in extreme summer heat, including environmental concerns & tips for finding the right ones.

Why Do Dogs Need to Pee on Everything?

Are you curious why your dog feels the need to pee on everything? Learn what dog marking is, why dogs do it, and what you can do to reduce this behavior.

Why Your Puppy Won't Stop Whining

Learn some common reasons why your puppy is whining, crying, and whimpering, as well as helpful ways to change his behavior through training.

Dogs With Joint Problems Don't Have to Remain in Pain

Learn the common signs that a dog is having joint problems, how joint issues occur & why they can so painful for him, as well as how they can be treated.

Can My Dog Eat Spicy Food?

Find out if you can feed your dog spicy food or add some spicy flavor to his dog food, and any health implications of doing so.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has an Upset Stomach & How to Treat It

Learn how to recognise if your dog has an upset stomach or sensitive stomach issues, how a veterinarian might treat it and how nutrition can help.

Reasons Why Your Dog is Losing Tail Hair

Why is my dog losing hair on their tail? Some common reasons why dogs lose hair on their tails and, more importantly, what to do about it.

How to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver on a Choking Dog

Learn what to do if your dog starts choking, including how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog, and how to prevent choking hazards in the future.

Why Do Female Dogs Hump Things?

Why do female dogs hump things? Learn the reasons behind this curious behavior and ways you can help curb her mounting habits.