Herding Group
Breeds developed to control the movement of other animals. These dogs have an innate ability to manage livestock through a combination of stalking, gathering, and driving behaviors. The instinct runs deep — they'll herd anything that moves, including kids, other pets, and guests.
Common Characteristics
- • High intelligence and trainability
- • Strong work drive
- • Responsive to handler commands
- • Alert and watchful
- • May nip at heels (herding instinct)
- • Need mental stimulation
What to Expect
Herding breeds are working dogs through and through. They're happiest with a job to do and a handler to please. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, they can become destructive or develop neurotic behaviors. But give them purpose, and they're unmatched in their responsiveness and bond with their person.
Breeds in This Group
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is what happens when you breed for pure working ability without compromise. The...
Border Collie
The Border Collie isn't a pet — it's a partnership. This is the dog that watches your eyes, reads yo...
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an actual herding dog. Those short legs aren't for looks — they're for d...
German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd is the dog that built modern working dog culture. Police K-9s, military dogs, se...
Shetland Sheepdog
The Sheltie is not a mini Collie — they're a distinct breed developed in the harsh Shetland Islands ...