Dog breeds: Herding Dogs

The dogs in this category were developed to control large flocks of sheep or herds of cattle. They still retain that ability today, even though most of them never lay eyes on a Merino or Longhorn.

Energetic, smart, and serious, they're big proponents of family togetherness and like nothing better than to see the whole family in the same room so they can keep an eye on them.

Herding breeds are protective of their people and property and make excellent watchdogs. They have a tendency to nip at or bump people, not because they're mean but because that's how they're wired to herd.

With firm, consistent training, they can learn to behave in a more appropriate fashion. Their intelligence, agility, and activity level make them well suited to dog sports.