Animal Planet

Herding Dog Breeds

Non-existent in European registries, where most of these breeds are classified as working dogs, this group was created in 1983 by the AKC to honor what is one of the oldest of dog professions: herding livestock. The sheepdogs and cattle dogs of the world are here, including the much-loved collie breeds and those royal favorites, the corgis. Unlike the livestock guardians that simply stand sentry, herding dogs actively round up cattle and sheep with frantic running, eye contact and aggressive barking. Some of the more intelligent dog breeds belong to this group, including the popular German shepherd dog, perhaps most famous for its police work, and what is arguably the most intelligent of all breeds, the Border collies. Although most of these are now simple companion dogs that have never even seen a sheep, the instinct to herd in some of them can be strong. Where no livestock exists, children and adults alike may be rounded up into corners or even tight circles by these serious, tireless workers. They require owners who are skilled at training and willing to give them "work" that rewards their instincts.