Herding breeds are a favorite of many active dog owners because of their fun-loving personalities. They are energetic, intelligent dogs that excel in training and make great active companions and performance competition dogs.
While many are not used for their original purpose of herding, they do still need jobs to do and should be provided adequate mental and physical stimulation.
#1 – German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog has been one of the most popular canine companions in the United States for many years. They are loyal, intelligent and energetic dogs that enjoy spending time with their families. Also used as police and military dogs, they are noble guardians and will look after their families.
#2 – Australian Shepherd
This breed originated in the United States, despite its name, and is a very popular herding dog. They excel at various dog sports such as obedience, herding, and agility, and make great running and hiking companions. Always ready for fun, the Australian Shepherd needs an active home.
#3 – Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog is a big dog in a small package. They are active and intelligent and love working with their owners. They enjoy training in agility, obedience, and many other sports, and make a great companion for someone looking for an active, smaller dog.
#4 – Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is known for its adorable looks and strong personality. Despite their size, there is a lot of dog in that tiny package. They are very active, very intelligent dogs that need a job to do. Even with short legs, they make great hiking companions and enjoy many performance dog sports.
#5 – Collie
The Collie is recognized by the character Lassie, who shows the breed in its best form. Collies are gentle dogs that are deeply loyal to their families. They are not as active as many of the other herding breeds, but they do still require adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
#6 – Border Collie
The Border Collie is probably the most widely used herding breed today. They are still very strong herding dogs across the world and are one of the most popular breeds for performance sports like obedience, agility, and disc dog. They are quirky dogs with unique personalities and are generally not recommended for novice owner.
#7 – Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a stubborn, active breed that does best in an active home. They make great hiking and running companions and are easily trained and competed in performance dog sports. They are often stubborn, as required for their work herding cattle, but form very strong bonds with their owners.
#8 – Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is arguably one of the most versatile dog breeds today. They are used widely in police and military work as well as competing at high levels of many performance dog sports. They are very active and intelligent dogs that need a job to do. Although not recommended for the novice owner, they are one of the most affectionate dog breeds and make wonderful companions for a truly active owner.
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via Whisker Therapy