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Dog Breeds: Understanding The Herding Group

A breed is defined as a group of certain species that have common ancestors and have certain distinguishable traits and characteristics. Keep in mind that you must consider your lifestyle and environment before you purchase a new puppy.  Getting a breed of puppy that suits your personality and lifestyle would be best. For example, you wouldn't get a Great Dane if you live in a small one bedroom apartment. Similarly, you wouldn't get a Weimaraner if you don't have the time to give him the proper amount of exercise or activity that he requires.

There are seven standard group of dog breeds that are assigned by the American Kennel Club (AKC). They are: The hound group, the herding group, the sporting group, the working group, the toy group, the terrier group, and the non-sporting group. Below is information regarding specifically the Herding group.

The Herding Group

These intelligent, hard-working dogs were originally bred to herd cattle, sheep, and other domestic animals under the supervision of a shepherd. Driving and/or sheep driving dogs and sheep herders are the two different types of dogs that would be classified under this group.

Cattle and/or Sheep Driving Dogs

The cattle and/or sheep driving dogs in most instances would work without any kind of human supervision or direction to relocated sheep and cattle over long distances.  Dogs in this group have a solid and stocky build. A few traits these dog’s posses are being unpredictable, aggressive, and reserved with strangers. However, with proper training and socialization these traits could be prevented.

Examples of cattle/sheep driving dogs are: Briard, Canaan Dog, Australian Cattle Dog, Bouvier des Flanders, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and Cardigan Welsh Corgi.

Sheep Herders

Sheep herders would be the other type of dog in the herding group. These dogs were bred to move the flock. They are alert, agile, and very athletic. These dogs show affection to their own families but are suspicious of strangers. Also, if they are properly trained they can in most instances get along with children. They need plenty of exercise and a job to do. You will need to keep some scheduled time to make sure they are socialized properly and they are trained in herding or other constructive exercise.
 
Examples of sheep herders are: German Shepherd Dog, Puli, Shetland Sheepdog, Old English Sheepdog, Collie, Border Collie, Bearded Collie, Australian Shepherd, Belgian Sheepdog, Belgian Malinois, and Belgian Tervuren.