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Herding dogs
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About a dozen years ago, the AKC separated herding dogs from the working group. These are the dogs who began their careers as livestock herders in the British Isles, on the European Continent, and in the US, the indispensable farmers' dogs that could work dawn-to-dusk to bring the sheep to the barn or to market. Several of these breeds have gone on to excel in police work, search and rescue, tracking, service to handicapped owners, and as sentries and couriers during wartime.
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Most herding dogs are active, intelligent, courageous, and determined. Many are favorites for obedience competition for their strong working bond with their owners. They are mostly medium-to-large in size, but include the smaller Shetland Sheepdog and the two Corgis.
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Herding dogs are more active,intelligent, courageous and determined
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The Border Collie is not a breed for everyone. It is very smart and must be kept very busy. Unless you can spend lots of time playing Frisbee or fetch, find someone with agility equipment you can use, or teach the dog to herd sheep or ducks, forget the Border Collie. This dog doesn't just need exercise, he needs meaningful exercise. A walk won't do unless he gets to fetch something, herd something, or climb over, under, around, and through something.
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Border Collie rescue always has several dogs whose owners did not realize these things before they bought the dog.
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The other herding breeds are calmer. The German Shepherd is prone to temperament problems because of over breeding, so it is imperative to seek out a responsible breeder who deals only in dogs of good temperament. The German Shepherds from European working lines tend to have higher drives than the US dogs; these dogs also must have work to do or they can become destructive.
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The rough-coated Collie is a true family companion. If grooming is not in your repertoire, try smooth-coated version of the breed. The Old English Sheepdog must be groomed often to prevent mats and is somewhat hard-headed
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