Australian cattle dogs: bred for herding in harsh conditions; smart, hardy, and energetic. Need ample exercise, excel at dog sports. Great jogging partners, enjoy puzzle games and obedience training.
Australian shepherds: US-developed but with Aussie roots. Exceptional herders and ranch dogs. Brilliant, athletic, excel in dog sports, hiking, jogging, flying disc, and tricks.
Bearded collies: Scottish herders, intelligent, high exercise needs. Start obedience training early, be consistent. Need space to run off-leash and lots of attention to thrive.
Belgian Malinois: One of four Belgian herding breeds. Common in law enforcement due to endurance and hard work. Brilliant and push boundaries, requiring proper training.
Border collies: Centuries of sheep herding in British Isles. Highly intelligent breed needing purposeful work or competitive dog sport training. Keeping them entertained is a challenge.
German shepherd: Iconic shepherd breed from Germany, originally for herding and farm work. Highly prized in law enforcement too. Very intelligent, loyal, and trainable.
Icelandic sheepdog: Iceland's native breed, brought by Vikings 1,000+ years ago. Medium-sized, skilled at herding and farm duties. Needs exercise and off-leash running space.
Old English Sheepdog: Originated in 1800s England, cattle drivers. Loving, playful pets with stamina. Need daily walks and off-leash play. Large, powerful, shaggy coat, gentle temperament.
Shetland sheepdogs (Shelties): Active, agile herders from Shetland Islands. Highly intelligent and trainable. Excel in dog sports like agility and flying disc. Similar to rough collies but smaller.
Rough collies: Scottish herders, famous for "Lassie." Gorgeous long coats. Highly intelligent, loyal, excellent family pets. Good-natured, friendly, cautious with strangers—never aggressive.