Herding Dogs – Top 10 Herding Dog Breeds & Facts

The muscular but compact Australian Cattle Dog called as Queensland Heeler or Blue Heeler is somewhat connected to the Dingo. This Australian Cattle Dog is active enough to regularly fool their owner.

Appearance

The appearance suggests that this dog has the commitment and capacity to perform his allotted work however arduous. The presence of a hard muscular, balance, power, and substance must send the message of endurance, strength, and agility.

These herding dogs are always trustworthy, courageous, watchful, and intelligent with a strong devotion to duty.

Size

Males around 18 to 20 inches at withers; females 17 to 19 inches at withers

Weight

These dogs weigh between 35 to 50 lbs.

Lifespan

The Australian Cattle Dogs live between 12 to 16 years of age.

Coat

The coat appears very smooth, with a thick undercoat and a double coat. The outer-layer is strong enough to withstand the heavy shower.

Under the body, the coat appears longer and forms a unique form of breaching near the thigh. On the head, the Australian Cattle Dog’s have short hair.

The hair, however, appears thicker and longer in the neck.

Color

They have either blue or red speckle. The dog may carry a colored mask around the eyes. These dogs also have tan markings on the hind legs, the hindquarters and jaws, on the forehead.

Grooming

No special care needed except regular brushing to keep away from shedding.

Temperament

The Australian Cattle dog’s commitment and loyalty make it a natural protector of the owner’s property, his herd, and the owner itself. While naturally alert to strangers, they are amenable to handling in the show events.

Health

Some of the common health problems that affect this breed include

• Hip dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy or PRA
• Deafness
• Wax buildup in the ears
• Teeth problems

These health tests are recommended

• PLL DNA Test
• PRA Optigen Test
• BAER Test
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• Elbow Evaluation
• Hip Evaluation

This dog is one of the main cattle dogs developed in “America”, a European dog breed crafted in California. The Australian Shepherd herding dog breeds are closely connected with America’s cowboy life.

Appearance

This is a brilliant working dog with powerful guarding and herding instincts. A loyal and hard working dog, Australian Shepherd’s are known to work tirelessly all day long.

They look medium size with bone, slightly longer, and well balanced with colouring that contains individuality and variety. These dogs appear muscular and solid, agile, animated, and attentive without cloudiness.

Size

The average size of the Australian Shepherd dog is 18-21 inches for female and 20-23 inches for a male.

Weight

The weight varies between 40-55 lbs and 50-65 lbs for female and male respectively.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of an Australian Shepherd dog is between 12 to 15 years.

Coat

The hair looks of medium length, weather resistant, straight to wavy, and of medium texture. The undercoat also changes based on climatic conditions.

Hair appears short and smooth on the ears and head, below the hocks, and front of forelegs. Backs of britches and forelegs are moderately feathered.

A moderate frill and mane are more common appear more prominent in males than in bitches.

Color

Red-all without or with white markings, tan, red merle, black, blue merle with no specific order of choice. White is seen more on the neck, muzzle underparts, legs, and chest.

The eyes are good when they are completely surrounded by pigment and color. In contrast, Merles become darker with age.

Grooming

The coat requires low maintenance. Depending on the habitat (snow, mud, and burrs), it should remain nice with an occasional bath and regular brushing.

Temperament

Not quite active and agile with strangers, Australian Shepherd’s are responsive, loyal, and very eager to please. They never behave hostile.

Quick to learn and alert, Australian Shepherd’s are easily trained. High-spirited and behaves strictly with uncooperative cattle but loyally follows his master’s command.

Health

They are normally strong and powerful dogs, and any well-informed breeder will check breeding stock for

• Cancer (not all types)
• Cataracts
• Epilepsy
• Hip dysplasia
• Aussie’s ear for wax build-up
• Teeth

It is very important to check and verify these documents before breeding  Australian Shepherds

• OFA Evaluation – Hip Dysplasia
• OFA Evaluation – Elbow Dysplasia
• Annual eye check-up

Optional medical tests but recommended

• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
• Multi-Drug Sensitivity (MDR1)
• Hereditary Cataracts (HSF 4)

The most adorable and boisterous droving dog from the land of castles, Scotland, the Bearded Collie loves the outdoor game. They are very co-operative and friendly by nature.

Appearance

This dog contains a medium length coat that permits a lot of daylight. Bearded Collies are lean and long, very strong, and seldom appears heavy. These dogs show a delightful inquiring expression.

Size

Male Bearded Collies are between 20 to 21 inches and female bearded collies 21 to 22 inches.

Weight

The average weight of a Bearded Collie is around 45 to 55 lbs.

Lifespan

The average life expectancy of a Bearded Collie is around 12 to 14 years.

Coat

These breeds have double coats with a close, furry, and smooth undercoat. The outer coat appears shaggy, strong, harsh,  and flat. The coat falls to either side and should never be fakely parted. The density and length of the hair are enough to create a secured layer.

On the head, the nose bridge is loosely covered with hair which looks longer on the sides. Around the cheeks, under the chin and lower lips, the coat gradually increases in size towards the chest, clearing the typical beard.

Color

All puppies are born without or with markings, fawn, brown, blue, and black. With time, the coat can appear to lighten, born black can turn grey to silver.

Fawns and blues also display colors from dark to soft tones. White appears only on the feet, legs, chest, and near the neck. It also appears on the tail tip, on the skull, and as a blaze.

The white hair fails to grow around the eyes and behind the shoulder.

Grooming

The first section deals with removing the foreign matter and tangles, assuming the dog has not into dirty activities. The second section consists of a weekly once schedule to completely remove dead hair using a comb, brush, and a pin rake.

This session takes around 30 minutes. Trim the Beardie’s nails on a regular basis as it can cause running and walking problems.

Temperament

Outgoing, smart, bouncy, and energetic, Bearded Collies are happy dogs that behave well as a friendly family friend. They move well with other family pets and dogs.

Health

These dogs are susceptible to

• Eye issues
• Allergies
• Autoimmune disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Hip dysplasia
• Ear wax problems

Before you buy from a reputable breeder, ask these certificates

• Thyroid checkup
• Ophthalmologist evaluation
• Hip problem

Mainly loved by women, the Beaucerons are a strong, versatile, spirited, and smart herders. These dogs are dashing and sensible by nature.

Appearance

A herding dog height which is solid, and well balanced without coarseness. The whole conformation sounds the impression of solidity and depth without bulkiness. They display the agility, endurance, and strength needed of this dog. The Beaucerons are energetic and alert with a nice carriage.

Males are larger and heavier than females. Females are feminine by nature but without any weakness in structure. This dog appears confident and discerning.

Size

Female Beaucerons are around 24 to 26.5 inches and males reach 25.5 to 27.5 inches.

Weight

The average weight of a Beauceron is between 70 to 110 lbs.

Lifespan

They live anywhere between 10 to 12 years

Coat

Normally between 1.25 – 1.5 inches thick, the outer coat grows close to the body. The hair grows longer in the vicinity of the neck section. The back of the thighs and tail are slightly fringed.

In short, the undercoat appears mouse grey, downy, dense, fine, and short.

Color

The tan is red and the black looks pure. The markings appear above the eyes, fading off near the cheeks, on the muzzle sides, and they never touch the ear undersides.

The hair grows longer near the neck section. The back of the thighs and tail are slightly fringed. In short, the undercoat appears mouse grey, downy, dense, fine, and short.

Tan (Harlequin), black, and Gray – Consists of a pattern of grey-blue patches distributed throughout the body. They are balanced with black as the base colour.

In the Harlequin – head totally grey, grey and black on either side of the body, too much grey in particular.

Grooming

This dog has a thick double coat; a water-resistant outer coat. The Beaucerons do shed but require very less grooming.

Weekly brushing with a soft-medium bristle brush, or use a hound glove. Nails look good when trimmed and also maintain the double dewclaws.

Temperament

Never worried, timid, or clumsy; self-assured and a nice companion. The Beauceron’s trait looks fearless and gentle. Any sign of unjustifiable roughness and fear is not an ideal scenario.

Health

Mostly, deep-chested dogs are prone to a stomach problem, especially bloat. The dog owners should have knowledge on how to handle it without getting anxious. The main disorders that need to be checked are allergies, eye issues, heart disease, and hip dysplasia.

Necessary test include

• Cardiac exam
• Ophthalmologist checkup
• Hip evaluation

This dog is called coated breed sans any coat issues. The Picardy Sheepdog looks like a dog with an attitude of supreme charm. During the Second World War, the Berger Picard vanished into thin air but has regained popularity in the last decade or so.

Appearance

Mainly developed by the sheepherders and farmers of France’s Picardy region, these dogs have natural ears, quite usual than tall, well-built and sturdily built.

They appear alert and lively, and these sheep herding dogs are a working dog without refinement and exaggeration.

Size

Males are around 23.5 to 25.5 inches and females are near 21.5 to 23.5 inches.

Weight

The average weight of a Berger Picard is 50 to 70 lbs.

Lifespan

They live anywhere between 12 and 13 years

Coat

Crisp and harsh to the human touch carries a wave-like a pattern, and neither curly or flat. The undercoat appears dense, short, and soft. Ideal measurement is over 2 and 3 inches where the coat looks shorter.

The coat grows on the neck and head which give the dog its classic “Griffonage”. The Picard normally appears natural, rough, and rustic coat which is neither scissored or shaped or sculpted.

Grooming

The Picard’s double coat contains a dense, soft undercoat for protection covered by a water-resistant top coat. Use a slicker brush and a rake to remove dead hair in the shedding season. On other days, it’s enough if you brush him once a month.

The Picard requires only occasional baths and nails will appear neat when trimmed.

Temperament

Even-tempered, confident, alert, and lively. The Picard will never remain nervous and timid. Threatening and aggressive behavior should be condemned at the beginning itself.

Health

One of the most healthy dog breeds, the Berger Picard is prone to eye and hip problem. An Ophthalmologist and hip evaluation is the needed certificate for this dog.

Often described as a dog with a heart of gold, Briard looks like a dashing Frenchmen in a gallic suit.

Appearance

Alert and vigorous, Briard looks strong without coarseness, showing the agility and strength of a herding dog. A dog with an attractive appearance.

Size

Females around 22 to 25.5 inches and males reach between 23 to 27 inches.

Weight

The average weight of a Briard is between 55 to 100 lbs.

Lifespan

The Briard lives up to 12 years of age.

Coat

The outer coat appears dry, hard, and coarse. The shoulder hair can be more than 6 inches. Also, the undercoat looks tight and fine. The head consists of hair which looks lies down.

Color

The permitted colors are tawny, grey, and black. The rich shades are normally preferred. Combinations are allowed provided the transition takes place symmetrically and gradually.

White hairs are allowed and cannot exceed more than 1 inch.

Grooming

A Briard herding dog requires brushing many times a week, using the best-quality pin brush, totally to the skin. An undercoat rake removes dead hair and reduces shedding.

The overall quantity of baths a dog like Briard will require depends totally on the tasks and his lifestyle.

Temperament

The Briard is a fearless dog with no attitude. Obedient, gentle, faithful, and trained, the Briard carries a stellar memory.

This dog displays a genetic trait to protect master and home. Although he is aloof from unknown persons, he is loyal and loving to those he knows well.

Some are known to exhibit a certain level of independence.

Health Issues

The Briar is a healthy dog, and well-informed breeders screen their dogs for a lot of health issues.

• Kidney disease
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
• Immune disorders
• Hypothyroidism
• Retinal folds
• Corneal dystrophy
• Cataracts
• Night Blindness
• Corneal dystrophy

Ask your breeder for this evaluation certifications

• Optigen DNA Test
• Ophthalmologist evaluation
• Hip evaluation

Iceland’s one and only native dog breed, the Icelandic are trustworthy and charismatic. A very thickly coated Nordic type breed, Icelandics are supremely attached to their human companions.

Appearance

With curled tail and prick ears, Icelandic Sheepdog is rectangular from the side. These dogs normally offer a happy, bright, and intelligent expression.

A typical and confident bearing looks typical. There are unique differences in appeal between the two sexes.

Size

Males reach 18 inches and females 16.5 inches in height.

Weight

Male and female Icelandic Sheepdogs weigh around 25 lbs and 30 lbs.

Lifespan

The Icelandic Sheepdogs live between 12 to 14 years of age.

Coat

The coat is coarse and thick. Weatherproof, thick, and double coat. The Icelandic Sheepdogs have-

Long-haired – Fairly coarse and the undercoat is soft and thick. The tail looks not only bushy but the hair length appears in good proportion.

Short –haired- The outer coat contains a soft undercoat with a thick fairly coarse coat.

In both the types, the hair looks shorter on the cat’s face, in front of its legs, ears, head top while the chest, neck, and some sections have long hairs.

Color

The main colors are black, grey, brown, and chocolate. Various shades from a cream color to reddish brown color. The white markings are present in tail tip, chest, collar, face, and these markings are often irregular.

On a grey and tan dogs, occasional black hairs, black tips, and a black mask can also these. Black coloured dogs have white markings and a black coat.

Grooming

These dogs require the right kind of diet based on their age and work level. They have a thick undercoat, with a lengthier outer coat, and a strong double coat.

Icelandic Sheepdogs need weekly brushing during shedding season, and all tangles can be removed with a metal comb or a slicker brush.

Long nails are a definite no and hence, trim the nails regularly.

Temperament

An active herding dog, Icelandic Sheepdogs are known to guard both the livestock and the master. They are alert and will provide visitors with a happy welcome.

They are, in fact, fearless, playful, curious, friendly, and cheerful.

Health Issues

Being very hale and healthy by nature, Icelandic Sheepdogs are susceptible to patellar luxation, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Regular ear checkups and parasite control help increase the dog’s overall lifespan.

The most advised health tests include

• Ophthalmologist evaluation
• Hip evaluation

The Finnish Lapphund is a  weather resistant substantial and tough reindeer herder. They are one of the friendliest of all canine breeds.

Appearance

The Finnish Lapphund contains both- the visual appeal of the northern dog with the instinct of the cool herding dog. These dogs are eager to learn, friendly, active, alert, and intelligent. This breed, in particular, has a thick coat.

Females are feminine and males masculine.

Size

Males reach 18 to 21 inches while females reach 16 to 19 inches.

Weight

The average weight of a Finnish Lapphund is anywhere between 33 to 53 lbs.

Lifespan

The Finnish Lapphunds are known to live at least 12 to 15 years.

Coat

The coat is normally profuse and thick. They appear shorter on the front of legs and on the head. The outer coat looks water-proof, very harsh, and long and straight.

The undercoat looks plentiful, dense, and soft, so it makes the coat look erect. Males, in fact, carry a mane.

Colors

All colors are allowed. The primary color should cover the entire body. Secondary colors are permitted on the underside of the tail, legs, body, and also on the chest, neck, and head.

Grooming

Weekly brushing will ensure that the dog looks spick and span,  it has got dense undercoat and soft outer coat.

They are free from canine odor and hence an occasional bath appears sufficient. The nails should always be trimmed and Lapphunds need their coat intact to handle the extreme cold.

Temperament

Finnish Lapphunds were created to control reindeer. When managing reindeer, these dogs are excessively noisy and agile.

They also have an excellent startle reflex.  With people, Laaphunds are very obedient, friendly, and calm. At times reserved and aloof, this mixture should never be confused with shyness.

Health Issues

The main health issue that can affect Finnish Laaphunds include

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Ear infection
• Teeth problems

Kindly enquire about these tests with your breeder before you buy a Finnish Laaphund dog

• Degenerative Myelopathy DNA Test
•  Pompe’s Disease DNA Test
•  PRA Optigen DNA Test
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• Patella Evaluation
• Elbow Evaluation
• Hip Evaluation

Puli is one such breed which cannot be mistaken for any other breed and is totally covered in chords. These little dynamos are smart learners in general.

Appearance

The Puli, a well mannered, square appearing dog of solid medium size. These dogs are active, alert, and vigorous. Alertness, combined with a good mixture of body and mind, is the main trait of this Puli dog.

Size

Male Pulik are 17 inches tall while female Pulik are 16 inches.

Weight

The average weight of a Puli dog is between 25 to 35 lbs.

Lifespan

The average life expectancy of a Puli is between 10 to 15 years.

Coat

The waterproof, thick coat covers the entire body without leaving an inch of space. The outer coat looks curly but no way silky. The dense undercoat is woolly and soft. Cords vary in thickness and shape, either round or flat, based on the texture.

Matured pulik are known to have coats that touch the ground.

Color

In the grey and black dogs, a combination of some white, black, and grey hairs is allowed but a solid color is a must. The fully pigmented contains a grey or bluish cast whatever be the coat color.

Grooming

The Puli is normally kept clipped, brushed, or with a corded coat. Juvenile police normally need no grooming except for regular ears and bathing, with grinding toenails.

Remember, cords are nothing but “organized mats” that may have become tight with time. Once the dog acquires unique cords, the only thing you should do is regularly bathe the dog and navigate the cords with your hand.

Temperament

The Puli is a good watchdog. They are by nature home-loving companion, bright, and affectionate.

Health issues

The Pulik are prone to

• Inheritable disease
• Degenerative Myelopathy
• Patella issue
• Hip dysplasia

Recommend tests include

• Degenerative Myelopathy DNA Test
•  Patella Evaluation
•  Ophthalmologist Evaluation
•  Hip Evaluation

One of the most captivating small dog breeds, the Pembrokes are very lively, athletic, and powerful. The mix breed of this dog, Corgi Husky Mix too exhibits this trait.

Appearance

The Pembrokes are sturdily built, alert, and low-set. They normally appear kind but bold. Never vicious or look shy, these dogs show intelligent and interested attitude.

Size

The average size of a Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 10 to 12 inches.

Weight

Males weigh 30 lbs and females 28 lbs under normal circumstances.

Lifespan

The Pembrokes are known to live between 12 to 13 years.

Coat

These dogs have weather-strong thick, short undercoat, and a longer coarser outer coat. The body coat, in general, appears flat.

The length may vary with longer ruff and slightly thicker ruff around the chest, and neck.

Color

White is allowed on underparts, muzzle, neck, chest, and legs. The outer coat can be in tan and black, fawn, sable, and red without or with white markings.

Blues- smoky or unique bluish cast is also allowed.

Grooming

This corgi dog consists of a coarse outer and a light undercoat. This breed sheds a lot regularly. During the shedding period, dry the dog completely after a bath and use a rake to brush.

Like other breeds, their ears and nails must be cleaned and trimmed on a regular basis without fail.

Temperament

The caring Pembroke is the most popular house pets. Loving and intelligent in nature, they are vigilant and alert but kindly.

Health Issues

The Pembrokes are prone to certain disease and they include

• von Willebrand’s disease
• Degenerative myelopathy,
• Cardiac issues
• Eye disorders
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia