Herding Dogs

I LOVE Herding Dogs! Obviously my Favorite is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, but all herding dogs are spectacular!

The Beautiful Border Collie has been scientifically proven to be the smartest breed of dog in existence today.


The Corgi was originally used to herd cattle because they are so low to the ground, and able to turn on a dime, that they were well out of harm's way if the cattle would kick at the dog.


The Australian Shepherds (which are actually an American breed) have agility that is simply amazing, as well as an intelligence that makes them easy to train.


The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile herding dogs. They have been used for many more jobs than just that of their origin in the pastoral group.


One of the many facets that all herding dog breeds have in common is a keen intelligence. They have been bred to be the smartest of all dog groups. The down side of having such an extremely intelligent animal is that they need mental stimulation much more than some other breeds. Just physical exercise, such as walking, is not enough for these breeds. They need a "job" to do, lest they become under stimulated mentally and develop bad behaviors. I have trained Banon, my Corgi, in both agility and fly ball. While she has never competed in either event, the regular training of a more mentally challenging exercise helps keep her well balanced.

Border Collies are not suited to being pets. They need constant stimulation and firm training, otherwise they may become snappy if bored.

Corgis are less likely to snap than Border Collies, but still are not an ideal pet for young children. Yes, that may seem hypocritical, but keep in mind, I am a Behaviorist and Trainer. Also, my dogs and my children are never together unsupervised.


German Shepherds are an extremely loyal breed, but if kept as a pet, they too need firm training and regular exercise.

Australian Shepherds have a more even disposition and are well adapted to family life. However they are by no means exempt from the firm training necessity.



Owning a herding dog, whether pure bred or mixed, is a great joy. They are fun, energetic, loyal, and protective. The trick is to make certain, before getting a herding dog, that you, as the pack leader, have plenty of time to train and exercise the dog.

There are many herding breeds to choose from. I only listed four of the more commonly owned for the sake of time. Here is a short list of other breeds to consider and research if you are interested in getting a herding dog.
Australian Cattle Dog
Bearded Collie
Belgian Shepherd
Briard
Rough Collie
Smooth Collie
Kelpie
Old English Sheepdog (often confused with the Bearded Collie)
Great Pyrenees
Samoyed
Shetland Sheepdog