Types of shepherd breeds

Whether you own a herd of sheep or not, these dogs are worth your attention.

Up until , the breeds in the Herding Group were part of the Working Group. All Herding breeds share an instinctual ability to control the movement of other animals. These breeds were developed to gather, herd and protect livestock. Today, some like the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd Dog are commonly used for police and protection work. The herding instinct in these breeds is so strong that Herding breeds have been known to gently herd their owners, especially the children of the family.

Types of shepherd breeds

Shepherd dogs are a type of working dog that was bred to herd or protect sheep. They are highly intelligent and have a strong desire to work. Shepherd dogs are also very loyal and protective of their family and property. Dogs have been domesticated for most of human history and have been a delight to many over the years. Stories have been told about brave dogs that served admirably in wars or that risked their lives to save persons in danger. When the Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, following the evacuation, searchers found evidence of a dog lying across a child, apparently trying to protect the youngster. Since dogs have been with humans since prehistoric times, over the years they have been invaluable friends and provided invaluable services to man. Dogs have pulled sleds through the Arctic, delivered messages, herded cattle and sheep and rescued people that have been trapped or lost. There are many different types of shepherd dogs and each of these breeds has its own unique set of characteristics that make it the perfect fit for different people. The Akbash Dog is a beautiful, large white dog that is alert, independent and highly protective. This dog breed is from Turkey and is quite rare. It was bred to be a powerful and relentless livestock guardian; to protect livestock and sheep in the snow. The Akbash Shepherd dog is an amazingly attractive big dog with a pure white-colored coat that helps to camouflage it as it moves amongst the flocks of sheep, and goats, it is responsible for guarding in the snowy terrain of Turkey. It is not a traditional sheepdog used for herding sheep it is a guardian dog that lives with its flock to protect it.

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When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More. Shepherd dogs, commonly referred to as sheepdogs, are a type of working dog traditionally used for herding and guarding sheep. These dogs have a natural instinct for controlling the movement of sheep, often using their gaze, body position, and sometimes barking to direct the flock. While there are a number of dog breeds classified as shepherds, not all of them are actually herding dogs. Rather, they are guard dogs that tend to the animals rather than herd them. There are many different breeds that fall under the category of Shepherd, though they may not have the title in the name.

Laura Vinzy. November 21, When you know all the Shepherd dog breeds, it allows you to filter out the most suitable one for your needs. We aim to give you only the relevant and crucial details thathelp you decide. The Anatolian Shepherd is the largest Shepherd dog breed, known for its independence and protective nature. Factors to consider when choosing a Shepherd dog breed include experience level, living environment, family dynamics, compatibility with other dogs, time and attention for training, and budget. You can expect the average male German Shepherd to grow as tall as inches with a weight of about pounds. The female version of the GSD is about inches in height, and they typically weigh around pounds. Naturally, female GSDs are relatively smaller as adults.

Types of shepherd breeds

Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. Shepherd dogs also referred to as sheepdogs are working dogs used by shepherds that protect and herd livestock, but usually sheep. Some of these dogs have the word shepherd in their name, but many do not, so some of the dogs on our list might just surprise you. The Australian Shepherd is clearly a shepherd dog.

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But a unique trait of the breed is its dewclaws that need regular trimming. The Beauceron is a faithful and loving pup. In the U. This rough-coated dog is one of the herding dog breeds and as a result it needs lots of space and exercise. The Pembroke was probably developed in Wales from progenitors brought to 12th century Pembrokeshire, Wales, by Flemish weavers. These pups were first seen thousands of years ago, so it is surprising they are not more heard of. Like many of their other herding friends, the OES loves to be around people and general excitement. Collies are sweet, friendly, and gentle, making this breed a perfect family dog and especially great with kids. Not many domestic dog breeds continue to have the appearance of what their ancestors may have resembled like the GSD does. Australian Shepherds are brilliant, devoted, and playful dogs. Bred to herd and protect sheep on the Italian Alps, the Bergamasco has a unique coat made up of three different textures. If you find yourself armed with a large backyard or with the willingness to walk or hike an average of 40 minutes every day, then you've got yourself a workout partner in the Aussie! German Shepherds are fiercely loyal animals that love their families and make great companions. Australian Kelpie. No Thanks.

In the past, nearly all domesticated dogs were bred for a purpose in society. All of which, served a crucial role in developing the modern human-dog relationship. Read on to learn more about the role of the shepherd dog, example of breeds, and their temperaments.

One of the most popular dog breeds in the US, the German Shepherd dog needs little introduction. Miniature American Shepherd. Develop and improve services. After all, they were named the hottest dog breed of by the New York Post. Founded in , the not-for-profit AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for all dogs. Don't look now, but the Belgian Malinois Mal is easily mistaken for the German shepherd. Spaniards probably brought these dogs to America in the 19th century, along with Australian sheep and cross-bred them with collies. Swiss Shepherds are very active, athletic, and trainable dogs. Other dogs of the herding group are commonly used on police forces in K-9 units or as TSA personnel without the person part, obviously , like the German shepherd and the Belgian Malinois. Ever since, people have been wondering what there is to know about this fluffy canine and whether they might make a good household pet. What is the largest Shepherd dog breed? List of Partners vendors. The long coat of Bouvier makes it high-maintenance in the grooming department and daily brushing is necessary to prevent tangles and knots from developing. Today, the Shetland is a popular family, companion and watchdog.