Examples Of Herding Dogs (Part 1)

Australian Cattle Dog: An active breed, the Australian cattle dog is intelligent and well focused. This would be consistent of herding-breed behavior across the board. A good choice for those with property and a propensity to exercise, you will find this breed to be fine in suburban environments.

Australian Shepherd: Becoming somewhat popular these days, the Australian shepherd is a good-looking breed with boundless energy. The Aussie is also popular in the obedience ring, excels in agility, and makes a fairly good pet. We use the word "fairly" because they need a job. This is not the dog for the lazy man. When not properly exercised, you will see this lack of fulfillment result in increased aggressive behaviors. Lots of play is one way to keep his energy appropriately channeled.

Bearded Collie: You can hardly say enough good things about the bearded collie. When they are well put together in the head, they are amazing dogs. The beardie is a lively and well-spirited dog, with enthusiasm to learn and work. As with many of the herding breeds, they can be independent thinkers. This is not always good for the owner because the dog may elect to blow off a command and follow the beat of his own drummer. It takes a little work to fully enjoy this type of thinking dog.

Belgian Malinois; Belgian Sheepdog; Belgian Tervuren: These three breeds are alike in terms of conformation, yet they have different characters. The Malinois's trainability and endless energy make it an unbelievable solid police dog. The sheepdog makes a beautiful show dog, carrying a long beautiful black coat. The Tervuren combines the two, with its long coat and some working ability in police-style work. All of them may excel in herding.

These dogs tend toward being on the sharp side, so it is imperative that no matter which of the three you choose, the individual is clear in its mind and has sound nerve threshold. This is necessary because if a dog is quick to make a reaction, we hope that its nerves prevent it from showing a highly defensive reaction to the initial stimulus. Balance of sharpness, hardness, and handler sensitivity are quality traits of the well-bred sheepdog.

Shetland Sheepdog: Shetland's are super nice little dogs. This is a wonderful breed in terms of a good family dog. The possible problems are excessive barking, house soiling, and aggression. The Shelties that have been known for aggression generally show territorial, not dominance-related, aggression.