Herding Dog Breeds

This group of dogs were created in 1983 by the AKC to honor what is one the oldest dog professions: herding livestock. Unlike the livestock guardians that simply stand sentry, the herding dogs actively round up cattle and sheep with frantic running, aggressive barking, and eye contact.

In fact, this particular breed have some of the more intelligent dogs. The German shepherd, which is infamous for police work, and the Border collies, which is arguably the most intelligent of all breeds.

Here is a list of the types of dogs that belong to the herding breed according to the AKC:

The instinct to herd, in some of the following breeds, can become strong. Although there may not be any livestock or cattle, children and adults may be rounded up either into corners or maybe even tight circles. This breed requires an owner who is skilled at training and the willingness to give them “work” that rewards their instincts.