Herding dogs are versatile and devoted canine companions, traditionally playing an essential role in managing and protecting livestock. Today, these noble-hearted, sharp-minded guardians have also won over many animal lovers with their diverse skills and unwavering devotion to their owners. Numerous herding dog breeds are highly valued for their ability to work alongside humans, as well as for their loving and loyal character. Their intelligence, endurance, and natural instincts make them ideal partners for farmers and dog enthusiasts alike. Here’s a look at the top 12 herding dogs most appreciated and sought after by Americans, detailing their distinctive characteristics, origins, unique personality traits, and essential roles, whether they’re herding livestock or watching over our homes.
1. The Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd proudly holds the top spot among the most popular sheepdogs in the United States. Having gained global popularity, it’s also one of the most beloved companions in North America. This elegant and affectionate dog boasts a strong character and was specially built for activity and work, showcasing the physical and mental abilities needed for various tasks. Medium-sized, the Australian Shepherd combines agility and intelligence, allowing it to fit well into family life and adapt to different environments, as long as it’s kept busy. Its coat comes in a variety of shades, such as merle, black, red merle, blue merle, red tricolor, and black tricolor.
Originally from the American West, the Australian Shepherd is registered as the Australian Shepherd by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale and was officially recognized as a breed in June 2007. Its lifespan generally ranges from 13 to 15 years, and it is known for its intelligent, affectionate, good-natured, active, and protective personality. Males typically weigh between 55 and 70 lbs [25-32 kg], while females weigh between 35 and 55 lbs [16-25 kg]. As for height, males are approximately 20 to 23 inches [51-58 cm], and females are about 18 to 21 inches [46-54 cm]. Its coat is medium-length with a texture ranging from straight to wavy. In summary, the Australian Shepherd is a charming herding dog, valued for its versatility, family loyalty, and exceptional abilities.
2. The Border Collie
The Border Collie, originating from the border between England and Scotland, is a medium-sized sheepdog admired for its natural elegance with either a short or long coat. Obedient and particularly lively, this dog is often described as dynamic, even hyperactive, as it’s constantly on the move and never stays still. Known as one of the best herding dog breeds, if not the best, it excels in herding livestock and is highly valued by farmers worldwide, especially for guiding sheep. Furthermore, its sharp mind, ease of learning, and remarkable ability to follow instructions make it a delightful companion and a preferred partner for all dog sports.
The Border Collie has a remarkable personality, displaying intelligence, enthusiasm, tenacity, energy, and loyalty toward its owner. It is also highly alert and athletic, able to adapt to different situations. Its lifespan ranges from 10 to 17 years, and it comes in a wide variety of coat colors, including black, white, blue, blue merle, red merle, brindle, lilac, sable merle, liver, chocolate, gold, and red. Males generally weigh between 30 and 44 lbs [14-20 kg], while females weigh between 26 and 42 lbs [12-19 kg]. Males stand around 19 to 22 inches [48-56 cm] tall, and females around 18 to 21 inches [46-53 cm]. As a versatile herding dog, the Border Collie is an exceptional companion for outdoor work enthusiasts, as well as those seeking a loyal everyday partner.
3. The Belgian Malinois
In third place among the most popular herding dogs is the Belgian Malinois, well-known for its exceptional skills in protection, guarding, and defense. Appreciated for its remarkable intelligence, it has recently been recognized as the most intelligent breed, even surpassing the Border Collie. Affectionate, lively, and extremely loyal to its owner, this versatile dog—serving as a military dog, guard dog, herding dog, or companion animal—is also playful and easy to groom due to its short coat. Originating from Belgium, the Malinois, one of the four Belgian herding dog breeds, takes its name from the city of Malines and is the breed most commonly used in bite work.
With a typically attentive and obedient nature, it also possesses high intelligence, allowing it to learn quickly. Coupled with its extraordinary abilities, this athletic and very energetic dog, capable of impressive feats, requires daily exercise. As a result, it has become the favorite dog of law enforcement. Females weigh between 44 and 55 lbs [20-25 kg] and males between 55 and 66 lbs [25-30 kg]; males can reach up to 24.5 inches [62 cm] at the withers, while females typically reach 22.8 inches [58 cm]. Easily recognizable with its black "mask" on the face, the Malinois has a fawn, sable coat, with pointed, erect ears that are generally dark or black in color. Its coat is short, its tail is full and carried low, and its dark brown eyes complete its expressive look.
4. The German Shepherd
The German Shepherd ranks fourth in this list. This breed, originating from Germany, has captured the hearts of animal lovers worldwide. With its impressive size, robustness, and endurance, the German Shepherd is an athletic dog, harmoniously built for physical effort. Its intelligent, loyal, and protective character towards its owners makes it a faithful and affectionate companion. Curious and alert, it can also be somewhat stubborn, which requires appropriate training. A true icon among herding dogs, the German Shepherd remains a popular choice for its versatility, intelligence, and dedication to its family.
The German Shepherd emerged in the late 19th century in Germany, from which it gets its name. It possesses impressive speed, reaching up to 30 mph [48 km/h] when running. Its coat comes in various colors, ranging from black and white to black and tan, as well as sable and gray. Its lifespan varies from 9 to 13 years, with an average weight ranging from 66 to 88 lbs [30-40 kg] for males and 48 to 71 lbs [22-32 kg] for females. With a height between 24 and 26 inches [60-65 cm] for males and 22 to 24 inches [55-60 cm] for females, the German Shepherd is an imposing dog with an attractive physique. It is an exceptional working partner and a loyal companion, making it one of the most appreciated herding dogs all over the world .
5. The Beauceron
The Beauceron, also known as the Berger de Beauce, bravely claims the fifth spot in our ranking of the best herding dogs. With its large size and short coat, it presents an imposing appearance that can deter the boldest. However, behind this intimidating façade lies an exceptional life companion. Intelligent, friendly, and fearless, the Beauceron is also a calm and devoted protector of its family. Originating from France, the Beauceron has a varied coat, ranging from harlequin to black and tan, as well as tricolor. Its firm, flat coat, measuring 1 to 2 inches [3-5 cm] in length, adds to its robust charm.
The Beauceron, also referred to as the Berger de Beauce, French Shepherd, and bas-rouge, is a powerful herding dog breed. Its imposing size ranges from 26 to 28 inches [66-71 cm] for males and 25 to 26 inches [64-66 cm] for females. Its weight varies from 70 to 99 lbs [32-45 kg] for males and 66 to 86 lbs [30-39 kg] for females. Its lifespan is estimated to be around 10 to 12 years. Cautious around strangers but affectionate and docile with its adoptive family, the Beauceron is a faithful and loyal companion that integrates harmoniously into family life. This makes it an excellent guard dog and a very good working dog, in addition to being one of the most appreciated herding dogs due to its remarkable qualities.
6. The Anatolian Shepherd
Next on our list of the most sought-after herding dogs is the Anatolian Shepherd, also known as the Kangal. This giant dog breed is distinguished primarily by its powerful, solid, and imposing physique. Originating from Turkey, the Anatolian Shepherd, known for its loyalty to its owner, was traditionally used as a herding dog to protect livestock from predators. It is believed to descend from the hunting dogs of Mesopotamia. The standards for the Anatolian Shepherd have evolved over the centuries, adapting to harsh natural environments and lifestyles such as that of nomads. Although this breed is ancient, it was not officially recognized until the late 1980s.
Primarily used for livestock protection and sometimes for property guarding, the Anatolian Shepherd embodies intelligence, pride, and boldness. Females weigh an average of 88 to 121 lbs [40-55 kg], while males can weigh between 110 to 143 lbs [50-65 kg]. The Kangal has an estimated lifespan of around 10 to 13 years. Its coat can come in various shades, ranging from brindle to white, and including fawn blue and fawn red. Standing between 28 to 31 inches [71-79 cm] for females and 29 to 32 inches [74-81 cm] for males, the Anatolian Shepherd presents itself as a majestic and trustworthy dog, ideal for protection and guarding tasks.
7. The Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd ranks 7th in our list of the most sought-after herding dogs. A small cousin of the Australian Shepherd, it was created from dogs of that same breed, but in a miniature version. Originating from the United States, the Miniature American Shepherd, also known by the abbreviation MAS (Miniature American Shepherd), has won the hearts of American families and is increasingly becoming a beloved companion in Europe. Its versatility makes it a dog appreciated by both herders and children alike. Intelligent, energetic, and loyal, it is easy to train, making it an ideal candidate for dog sports such as agility, obedience, canine freestyle, and flyball.
Weighing between 20 to 40 lbs [9.1-18 kg] and standing 14 to 18 inches [36-46 cm] at the shoulder for males, and 13 to 17 inches [33-43 cm] for females, the Miniature American Shepherd is a small bundle of energy that brings joy and dynamism to the families that welcome it. With coats ranging from red merle, blue merle, red tricolor, to black tricolor, the Miniature American Shepherd presents itself as a lively and charming little dog that thrives as a family companion and attracts more enthusiasts in many countries. This little sheepdog captivates with its spirited personality and ability to form strong bonds with its family, making it an ideal companion for active and loving households.
8. The Swiss White Shepherd
The Swiss White Shepherd ranks eighth in our list of high-quality herding dogs. With a robust and well-muscled physique, this large dog comes in two types of coats: long and medium. Originating from Switzerland, the Swiss White Shepherd is a curious companion that forms deep attachments to its owners. Its attentive, intelligent, sociable, friendly, lively, and affectionate character makes it a dog appreciated by both families and active individuals seeking a loyal and dynamic companion. Its bright white coat gives it an elegance and natural beauty that captivates many herding dog enthusiasts.
The Swiss White Shepherd is a dog breed of the German Shepherd type, characterized by its white fur. This large dog, with a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, weighs between 55 to 77 lbs [25-35 kg] for females and 66 to 88 lbs [30-40 kg] for males, and stands between 22 to 24 inches [55-61 cm] for females and 24 to 26 inches [60-66 cm] for males. Versatile dog in his abilities, the Swiss White Shepherd loves to learn and play. Highly trainable, it requires plenty of outdoor exercise and can excel in canine sports such as canicross, hiking, carting, tracking, and agility. This sheepdog is also an excellent companion dog and guard dog.
9. The Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd, whether long-haired or short-faced, holds a special place among herding dogs. Despite its small size, it is full of vitality and intelligence. Originally used as a guide and guardian of livestock, the Pyrenean Shepherd makes an excellent companion animal, always on the move and loyal to its owners. Recognizable by its clever and mischievous look, it comes in two varieties: the long-haired Pyrenean Shepherd, featuring long, woolly fur, and the short-faced Pyrenean Shepherd, with short, fine fur. With a rectangular head and short, drooping ears, this dog exudes a distinctive charm.
Whether it's the long-haired or short-faced variety, the Pyrenean Shepherd is a devoted, clever, and energetic dog breed. Originating from France, it enjoys a relatively long lifespan of 15 to 17 years. Weighing between 15 to 33 lbs [7-15 kg], it stands between 15 to 19 inches [39-47 cm] at the shoulder for long-haired males, and between 15 to 18 inches [38-46 cm] for females of the same variety. Its coat can be long or medium-length, often forming dreadlocks in the long-haired variety. Alert and easy to train, the Pyrenean Shepherd is distinguished by its authoritative temperament, making it an excellent watch dog and an active companion cherished by families looking for a charming and dynamic herding dog.
10. The Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd, often overlooked by the general public, fully earns its place among herding dogs due to its remarkable ability to manage livestock. With a build and physique reminiscent of its European neighbor, the Malinois, it primarily distinguishes itself by its coat. The Dutch Shepherd can have short hair, but there are also long-haired specimens within this breed. With its intelligent expression and lively temperament, it can be affectionate, docile, loyal and trustworthy. The average lifespan of this robust and healthy dog is between 12 to 14 years.
Originating from the Netherlands, the Dutch Shepherd is a loyal, obedient, and affectionate herding dog. Males stand between 22 to 24 inches [57-62 cm] tall, while females measure between 21 to 23 inches [55-60 cm]. In terms of weight, females can range from 44 to 66 lbs [20-30 kg], while males typically weigh between 53 to 71 lbs [24-32 kg]. Their coats vary from brindle to salt and pepper, including gold brindle, silver brindle, gray brindle, and blue gray. Their hair can be short, coarse, or long, and they often have a woolly undercoat that protects them from the elements. Intelligent and easy to train, the Dutch Shepherd is reliable and vigilant, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a loyal and active companion.
11. The Shetland Sheepdog
In 11th place in our ranking is the Shetland Sheepdog, also simply known as Shetland or Sheltie. This small sheep dog from the Shetland Islands, north of Scotland, is recognized for its elegance, compact size, and long coat. Its supple and graceful appearance resembles that of a young Collie, but it has its own characteristics that make it a unique breed. With a gentle and intelligent expression, the Shetland Sheepdog was used to herd sheep in its native region. It is a result of the crossbreeding between dogs from the Shetland Islands and Collies, which gives it a lively, affectionate, and loyal personality.
This Scottish herding dog has many strengths: it is intelligent, alert, reserved, active, enthusiastic, playful, and easy to train. Its lifespan is around 12 to 13 years, and its weight ranges from 14 to 26 lbs [6.4-12 kg] for both sexes. Its coat comes in a rich variety of colors, including merle, blue merle, tricolor, sable and white, as well as sable, black and white, and black and tan. The Shetland Sheepdog stands between 13 to 16 inches [33-41 cm] at the shoulder, with long and dense fur that forms a pronounced ruff and bib, while being short on the head and legs. With its lively and affectionate nature, this sheepdog will surely win the hearts of families looking for an intelligent and endearing companion.
12. The Briard
Finally, to conclude our ranking of the most popular herding dogs, we have the Briard, a French herding dog with a strong yet adorable character, very affectionate and obedient to its owners. Its imposing stature and long hair that falls over its eyes give it the look of an irresistible teddy bear. Energetic and joyful, the Briard, also known as the Berger de Brie, is an excellent companion while being a competent herding dog, making it a good guardian and protector. Despite its guarding abilities, it is not aggressive and is distinguished by its gentleness and great courage. The Briard, with its highly developed sense of smell, has also been recognized for its talents as a drug and explosives detection dog, as well as for its skills as a search and rescue dog after natural disasters.
Originating from France, the Berger de Brie, or Briard, has historically been devoted to guarding and herding livestock. Its weight varies between 51 to 90 lbs [23-41 kg], depending on the sex, and it stands between 22 to 27 inches [56-69 cm] at the shoulder. Its lifespan is about 10 to 12 years. The Briard is also known for its intelligence, loyalty, bravery, and obedience to its owners. It comes in various coat colors, including black, white, fawn, gray, and various combinations of these colors. This dog with a strong character adapts perfectly as a family pet, especially with children, with whom it loves to play. With its overflowing affection for its family and its many talents, the Briard is a valuable companion for those looking for a loyal and protective herding dog.
Versatile Dogs Suitable for Family Life and Effective at Work!
Herding dogs are exceptional companions, combining intelligence, loyalty, and dedication to their family. Holding a special place in the hearts of breeders and families, their ability to work closely with humans makes them valuable partners in the world of livestock management and beyond. Whether used for herding livestock, guarding, or simply as loving pets, each breed has its unique traits. From the majestic Swiss White Shepherd to the energetic Belgian Malinois, and the elegant Australian Shepherd, these devoted friends remind us that their presence enriches the lives of those lucky enough to welcome them, in invaluable ways. If you are looking for a loyal and affectionate partner, you will undoubtedly find happiness among these 12 wonderful herding dogs.
