1. Australian Shepherd. Australian Shepherds or “aussies” are a midsize breed known for their intelligence and herding instincts. Fast learners and always ready to work, these dogs are great for herding sheep, cows or even kids.
German shepherd
Guide dogs for the blind, service dogs, watchdogs, and herding dogs all have one thing in common: They're often German shepherds. These are some of the easiest dogs to train for work and family life, says animal behaviorist Mary Burch, PhD.
One of the most affectionate breeds in the herding group, the Sheltie is a great choice if you like to spend a lot of time with your dog, and are looking for a lovey-dovey type who will be there to comfort you during times of stress.
The Belgian Sheepdog is a highly trainable herder whose versatility and intelligence is the stuff…
Border Collies' heritage stems from sheep herding, making them excellent watchdogs; they're well suited to anyone who loves a good walk and has time to spend outdoors. But many forget that they also love cuddling and bonding with their owners, making them the best of both worlds!
A considerable amount of this behavior is inherited. Cattledogs were bred to control large herds and to protect animals and property from thieves, so working dogs are supposed to be suspicious of strangers and to protect territory. Dogs who are friendly to strangers are not much good at their jobs.
The border collie is often considered the smartest of all dogs and the overachiever of the canine world. Originally bred as a herding dog, border collies can perform just about any job you give them. Extremely energetic, athletic, and driven, they are always up for learning something new.
These dogs also have a tendency to bark and possibly nip at visitors in the home, strangers at the door, or when people walk past or into the yard. What is their Ideal Home? Herders form strong bonds with their people, so they may need some help learning how to be alone while you're at work.
There are many old-world guardian dog breeds like Great Pyrenees from France, Maremmas from Italy, and Akbash and Anatolian Shepherds from Turkey, to name a few. They have several traits in common. First, they are all large. Most often, they are of light color.
Ever have a dog nudge you, not so gently, toward the food bowl? Or maybe they are habitual car chasers along the back yard fence. They may even nip excitedly at the kids when they are running in the yard. Odds are if you see this behavior you may have a herding breed on your hands.
It's not uncommon for certain breeds to over-attach to their owners, particularly dogs in the working or herding groups that are bred to work side-by-side with their humans.
It is smart to stay away from hunting dogs, herding/shepherd dogs and sled dogs as a first-time dog owner. They all come with significant training and exercise requirements that can easily be too much.
Begin training your dog only when it's mature enough to withstand the physical and cognitive rigors of training—usually 10 to 12 months old, though it depends on the individual dog. If you're having problems early on, don't get mad at the dog. You may need to wait a few weeks until it's more mature.
After all, these breeds were initially bred to herd livestock, and sometimes that can lead to some aggression. But the truth is, herding dogs are no more aggressive than any other type of dog; it just depends on how they're raised and trained.
Most herding dogs, like those mentioned above, will sometimes nip at a person's feet or heels. Essentially, they're trying to herd you, and they're mimicking the livestock herding behavior they were originally bred for. Anyone running around or playing vigorously is likely to be on the receiving end.
Herding dogs, including Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers, were bred to follow human orders to perform specific jobs. For this reason, they may also follow their owner's every move.
1. Border Collie: A workaholic, this breed is the world's premier sheep herder, prized for its intelligence, extraordinary instinct, and working ability. 2.
Border Collie - The Most Intelligent Dog Breed
What makes the Border Collie the smartest dog in the world is their exceptional ability to understand and follow complex commands. Known for their advanced herding skills, Border Collies have a keen instinct and excellent problem-solving abilities.
The Border Collie has long been thought of as the smartest dog in the world but a recent study from University of Helsinki in Finland found it is actually the Belgian Shepherd Malinois.
Family dogs such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and Irish Setters are playful and protective. Pugs, Brussels Griffons and French Bulldogs love their families – particularly their laps.