In 1983 a new classification was added to the American Kennel Club (AKC) called "herding dogs." These dogs have a special skill in herding cattle. The AKC chooses the top 10 dogs under this classification based on their intelligence and ability to control and guide the herd that is put into their care. Contrary to common belief, not all herding dogs are massive in size and strength. The Corgi, for instance, is about 1-foot tall and considered an exceptional herding dog because of its ability to drive cattle by nipping at their legs.
German Shepherd
The intelligence of the German shepherd has been proven time and again and is the reason why these dogs are used by the police force under the rank of "officers." These dogs are dependable, obedient and have exceptional intellect.
Shetland Sheepdog
This is a large dog breed which is known for its intelligence, loyalty and agility. They make superior watch dogs.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
This is a dog that proves size does not matter when it comes to ability and agility. They are about 1-foot tall and full of spunk and courage. They are easily trainable and make excellent companion dogs.
Australian Shepherd
These dogs are very friendly dogs, and well known for their courage as well as their intelligence. They require plenty of attention and they love to play. They get easily bored and when they do, they often turn destructive.
Collie
Collies are large and extremely trainable dogs especially if praised constantly. They need plenty of exercise and social interaction or they start destroying things. They make loyal companion dogs.
Border Collie
These dogs need lot of activity and constant interaction. They are agile, very active and extremely intelligent. When they do not get enough exercise, they can become a major nuisance.
Old English Sheep Dog
This dog breed is also known as Bobtail. Its appearance is often compared to a small bear. This is a exceedingly playful dog that thrives on attention. Its ability to clown often gives the impression that it has a sense of humor. It has a shaggy coat which needs plenty of grooming.
Australian Cattle Dog
This is another dog that is classified as a workaholic. These dogs are loyal, intelligent and can be easily trained. They need a lot exercise or they tend to become destructive.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan distinguishes itself from the Pembroke by its bushy tail and long body. This dog requires early obedience training for it is territorial and suspicious nature. It makes a good watch dog.
Bouvier des Flandres
Also known as the Belgian Cattle Dog, this is a big dog breed which is known for its tracking ability and agility. These dogs are intelligent and rather sober. They can be quite stubborn as puppies and adolescent dogs, so they require a confident owner.
Related posts
The Australian cattle dog is a loyal and energetic herder.Australian cattle dogs are medium-sized herding dogs that are also called Australian heelers, Hall's heelers and blue heelers. This work d...
Border Collie at an Agility TrialAgility and obedience are two popular competitions that dogs compete in with their handlers. Obedience trials involve demonstrations of the dog's steadfastness and...
Blue heelers are working dogs who need exercise with a purpose.The blue heeler is an Australian cattle herding dog. Bred for herding animals, these dogs are known for their intelligence and willfu...
A border collie needs to be herding sheep on a farm or get plenty of activity to prevent hyperactivity.Herding dogs were bred to herd sheep and cattle, making them very intelligent and loyal and t...
The best boar dogs are lean and muscular.A boar dog is used to find, chase and catch boars. Because of the strength and agility a wild boar possesses, dogs work in packs in order to best the aggre...
