Cattle dog breeds don’t have a special category when it comes to the classification of dogs. They are a part of a group that is called a herding group. Many of them are also among working groups, too.
And, if there was a smart group, an agile group, and a capable group – these super canines would be in them, too.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) registered 30 breeds within the herding group, but there are many more of these breeds around the world that have all the traits and abilities to do herding tasks just as well.
In this article, I have gathered all the breeds that somehow take care of livestock. Some of them are droving cattle, some are herding flocks or herds, some are just guarding and protecting them from all sorts of predators, and live with a herd, and some just round them.
So, I have rounded these puppies here in a pack so it is easier for you to meet them. Let’s see what we got.
1. German Shepherd
Country of birth: Germany
Well, well, well… isn’t this the King of dogs – a mighty Rex, an all purpose dog, one that you call for whatever trouble you have. Yes, I know – he is a shepherd, you may say, but this dog… ohh, this dog can do every task.
Such a clever pooch that can, after a long day at the police station, still come home and be your own personal therapist. And, when he is done with that, he will heard your sheep or cattle, or whatever.
He looks good while doing it. You can choose which German Shepherd color you want your livestock to feel safe with. There are plenty of choices. You can pick albino, brown, sable, black, blue, red, isabella, liver, silver, white, merle, panda, and many more.
And, you still think that he is not able to gather your livestock? I mean, after all… he has a German work ethic and mindset, so expect precision and dedication to the task and overall work.
There are so many choices of excellent GSD breeders in America.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
2. Border Collie
Country of birth: Scotland and Wales
We can’t actually talk about cattle dog breeds without mentioning the Border Collie. This is a dog with a reputation, and his name might ring a bell to you.
Yes, you have finally remembered. This is the one. He is officially the smartest dog breed ever and anywhere. It is good to have a Border Collie mix, too.
These versatile pooches got their name exactlly for the fact that they were born and raised next to the border. Yes, I know… there is still the rest of the name to explain.
Since it is a Scottish breed, it is reasonable that this breed has a true Scottish word in the name, and this word is a Scottish term for a dog that guards sheep.
I have already mentioned that he has a lot of brains, and he uses them. He is very good at what he does. Trust me… I will give you an example. He is a herding dog, which means he had some livestock animals to protect.
And, those animals are not very clever so the herders had a difficult task. When it comes to the Border Collie’s aggression, he doesn’t even have to show it in a great amount.
Even though he is well-known for barking, he doesn’t even have to vocalize at his cattle. He just gives them a look. This means that he stares at the animal until it feels intimidated.
If German Shepherds and Border Collies are capable of herding cattle by themselves, imagine what the GSD and Border Collie mix are capable of doing.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
3. Australian Cattle Dog
Country of birth: Australia
The Australian Cattle Dog says a lot, to be honest. You can effortlessly guess that it is a dog from Australia (the Australian outback, to be precise), and that is specialized in cattle guarding. This means he belongs to the herding group of dogs.
Maybe you still don’t exactly know which dog I am referring to. Can the term ‘Blue Heeler’ help a little bit? Yes, he is also known by that name. It is maybe a more prominent name.
We are talking about the same dog when we say Australian Heeler, Queensland Heeler, Red Heeler, and Halls Heeler.
Heeler, heeler, heeler everywhere… what is all that fuss about? Well, nomen est omen, and when we say ‘Blue Heeler’, it means exactly that – a heel that turns blue… well, from the dog’s bite, of course… what else?
Just kidding… it does not turn blue, but he does use his teeth while herding his livestock. He doesn’t actually bite, but nipps a little bit just for a warning.
After all – he works with huge animals, much bigger than he is, and he has to make himself an authority somehow. Maybe that is the trait he got from his wild parent – the dingo.
Oh, and yes… blue refers to the color of his coat, which resembles blue reflection.
He can be mixed with other intelligent dogs that do well with sheep and livestock. For example, there is a fine mix of GSD and Blue Heeler, and a mix of Australian Shepherd and Blue Heeler. We will find out more about Aussies soon.
There is another trait that is common for Blue Heelers, and it is deafness. These pooches are genetically prone to it in a big way.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
Check out these top 10 best Blue Heeler breeders in the U.S.!
4. Australian Shepherd
Country of birth: Spain
What is this, now? An Australian Shepherd that is from Spain. That doesn’t make sense at all. But, it actually does, and I will explain how.
Remember how American Indians got their western name. First arrivals thought they had landed in India – they didn’t know they had found a new continent. So, they called local people Indians.
Something like that happened with these fine working dogs. They are actually from Basque – a region in the north of Spain that is a bit different than the rest of the country.
Their first Australian emigrants were shepherds who took their dogs with them. It is a logical move since Australia and New Zealand are well known for their merino sheep.
But, emigrants from America didn’t know these dogs actually belong to the Spanish heritage, and they took them back with them to the USA and named them after the place they found them – Australian Shepherds.
It was a cute mistake, and these dogs remained as native Down-Under dogs.
And, these dogs are cute, too. Can you guess all the Aussie colors? He has a special set of colors. There is a red merle Aussie, a blue merle, a red tri, and a black. He also has heterochromia, which means that his eyes are not of the same color.
This breed did well in America. Since he had a lot of experience as a guard dog, a family pet, and a watchdog, while doing some tasks on ranches with ranchers, he found himself another occupation.
He soon became a rodeo star herding bulls.
There are few Aussie mixes that should have emphasized herding instincts since both pet parents are prominent shepherd dogs. Here, we have the ultimate sheep herding dog – a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
You can find fine Australian Shepherd breeders in the United States. Feel free to check them out.
5. Belgian Malinois
Country of birth: Belgium
You know this dog. The Belgian Malinois looks like a German Shepherd, but a much lighter version. It is one of the three Belgian Shepherd breeds that we will include in the cattle dog breeds list.
I know… cattle, sheep… it is not the same, but hey… this dog can do it all. Even though you can’t say that from his name, the Belgian Malinois is, first of all, a high-energy sheepdog.
But, some people recognized his potential, and nowadays, he is less of a sheepdog and more of a service dog, family dog, therapy dog, military dog, and whatever kind of dog you want him to be.
Just make sure he gets a lot of exercise; otherwise, a Belgian Malinois can get aggressive.
With a lot of training and mental stimulation, this dog is suitable for many different tasks. It is important to do this because it is a healthy dog that has a respectable lifespan. So, you must show him who the boss is.
It is a great dog that can put both sheep and bigger animals in order, like cows and bulls. That is why he deserves to be on the cattle dog breeds list.
Belgian Malinois mixes could easily get the title of best dog, too.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
Check out these fine Belgian Malinois breeders.
6. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Country of birth: Wales
You must think that I have made a mistake again. How can a small, fluffy Corgi end up on the cattle dog breeds list? Believe it or not, it can.
I mean it is a dog that pulls a carriage of fairies and elves, and you think it can’t herd a few cows? If you have a Corgi, then you are one lucky dog owner.
These little thingies are super smart, super agile, and super working dogs. And, he will be your best buddy.
If he doesn’t hear something, then he will be zooming, which is running in circles (or frapping). Frapping stands for frantic random acts of play. That is how he likes to get busy.
These happy and joyful dogs are good with kids, too, but with caution.
And, you must know that this Pembroke version is not the same as the Cardigan one, but we will hop to that one soon.
When we think of herding dog breeds, we usually think of those that are purebred, but mixes can be equally good. Check out this Dalmatian Corgi mix or this Corgi German Shepherd combination.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
There are some fine Corgi breeders in the UK if you are interested in them.
7. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Country of birth: Wales
After we have found out that Corgis are actually one of the cattle dog breeds, it is time to meet another Corgi – a Cardigan one.
Both of them are the minions of Queen Elisabeth II. You have probably seen them in movies about the royal family a few times. They are so adorable that even the queen can’t resist them.
These beauties are colorful. Corgi colors give us brindle, cowboy, red, merle, and a few more variations on theme.
I forgot to mention earlier, but the key difference in appearance between the Pembroke and the Cardigan version is their tail. And, by this, I mean that the Cardigan Corgi actually has one.
The main role of this small dog, whose name, by the way, means ‘dwarf’, in Welsh, is to drive cattle away. He is not a herder.
This breed has been specializing in cattle for more than 3,000 years.
It is so precious that there is a special law for them in Wales.
Trust me… Corgi mixes are not getting behind in any trait. They are just as cute and capable as their Pembroke and Cardigan parents. Just imagine a Saint Bernard Corgi mix or a Corgi Australian Shepherd mix. Sounds like the ultimate herder.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
If you are the type who is more for adoption, there are amazing Corgi rescues out there where you can get your dog.
8. Bearded Collie
Country of birth: Scotland
This is another Collie from Scotland. Sheep in Scotland must feel really safe with these furry and fury guardians. And, they must be protected… they are so important for Scottish culture.
Where else would Scots find so much wool for the great numbers of their filibegs if there were no sheep. They are like guardians of tradition, and these Collies are their protectors.
This Collie differentiates from his Border colleague in the amount of hair. He is called ‘Bearded’ for a reason. He is one of the big and fluffy dog breeds out there.
The Bearded Collie, or the ‘Beardie’ is, as it happens with sheepdogs, a very clever pooch, and very friendly, too. If you put effort into socialization, your dog will behave well with other animals and kids.
And, the kids will love him and his fluffy undercoat, as well as his almost non-consumable energy.
You can find out more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
9. Old English Sheepdog
Country of birth: England
Imagine a dog with cerulean blue eyes that look at you under a huge pile of silky hair. This is a sight that will make you fall in love with it immediately.
Nothing in the name of this dog is completely true, to be honest.
It is stated that it is an old breed, but the Border Collie is older, for example. It is even thought that this “old version” is derived from the “border one”.
It is not clear where his origin derives, actually. Some say it is from Scotland, and earlier, was mentioned the Border Collie.
There are people who disagree, and they say that he is from Russia – a descendant of Russian Ovcharka, which is not impossible if you ask me, considering the amount of fur he has. And, we all know how cold it can get in Russia.
His coat placed him on the list of shaggy dog breeds, and he does look a bit shaggy, to be honest.
There is a reason why this dog is on the list of cattle dog breeds. We have already said that his name is not completely correct.
So, this dog is not really into sheep. He is more for cattle, and what he would do was drive them to the marketplace.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
10. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Country of birth: Italy
We are heading to the south to meet one ancient dog breed from the town of Bergamo. It is one fine pooch, with manners that will greet you and wish you a welcome.
And, you will be surprised when you see him. It is an all-black dog with extravagant hair.
This sheepdog kinda looks like a sheep. This Italian dog needs a good hairdresser to put his hair in order for some special occasions. On regular days, he just goes all natural.
Even though he looks indolent, he is a very athletic and agile dog. But, you just can’t see that under all of that fuss on top.
And, he better be agile since he needs to keep together a flock of not-very-bright animals.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
11. Shetland Sheepdog
Country of birth: Scotland
Did you, like me, think that this is a Lassie? A dog from that movie, Lassie, is coming home. Well, we are not the only people to confuse this breed with the Rough Collie.
So, it is not Lassie, but Sheltie, and Sheltie has some serious skills when it comes to disciplining sheep. He even nipps a bit if neccessary.
That is why maybe some people think it belongs on the aggressive dogs list… that, and maybe because he barks a lot.
Anyhow, he is placed on the cattle dog breeds list because he is among the smartest dog breeds, and he does well with any kind of task. One quick-learning pooch.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
12. Bouvier Des Flandres
Country of birth: Belgium
Maybe it is not immediately clear, but he is a Belgian dog because Flandres is part of this country. He belongs among black dog breeds since his coat is always in dark tones.
When I say he is a working dog, I mean he is really a hard-working dog. He is smart and gifted, both with brains and with a working ethic.
Give him any task and he will do it from droving cattle to working on a farm. He does it all, except for making cheese from milk.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
13. Dalmatian
Country of birth: Croatia
It is Cruella de Ville’s favorite puppy and worst nightmare at the same time. But, let’s forget about her – we are here for this versatile stunner with equally stunning colors.
Dalmatia is a region in today’s Croatia, but it got its name after the Illyric tribe of Delmata, and that is how our dog got his name. And, this breed is as old as the name of the region.
Though, the Dalmatian’s lifespan is not that long.
I was on vacation in Croatia once, in the small town of Zaostrog, and there is a franciscan monastery there which holds a painting with the earliest depiction of a Dalmatian.
They will tell you that his spots are for all purposes. He is awesome as a hunting dog, as a help to firemen, for ratting, and most importantly, as a herding dog.
Even though it is not a common sight to spot these spotted dogs among livestock, try to give him this task and you will see that there is nothing he can’t do.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
14. Finnish Lapphund
Country of birth: Finland
This is a dog from the Finnish region of Lapland (or Laponia). It is not a dog for your lap as you might think when you hear his name.
He kinda looks like a wolf, but he is not at all intimidating like one. He is actually a very fine pooch once you get to know him.
This dog is a herder. But, wait a second… there are not many sheep in Finland.
Well, he is more of a cattle dog breed, but not really of cattle that you would first think of like cows or horses or something similar.
His livestock is reindeer. Are you surprised? Yeah, it sounds funny, but it is true. They are very successful at herding these horned animals. I bet he would also be equally successful at any other herding task.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
15. Pyrenean Shepherd
Country of birth: France
The magnificent glades of the Pyrenees mountains have always been a quality nursery for even better shepherd dogs.
Regardless of whether they are on the Spanish or the French side, these dogs have no problem defending their flocks from the dangers lurking in the mountains.
Our Pyrenean Sheepdog (or Chien Berger des Pyrenees as they like to call him in his domicile land) is the ultimate herder, too.
He comes in two versions that are distinctive by their coat.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
16. Australian Kelpie
Country of birth: Australia
His late descendants are actually back in Scotland. These are Collie dogs that are best known for their abilities to dominate herds or flocks of livestock animals.
The Australian people needed a slightly upgraded version that would endure the harsh environment of the Australian Outback, so they derived the Australian Kelpie.
This is a dog that almost can’t get exhausted, and it also has a brain and willingness to work – perfect traits for the job he has been raised for.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
See Also: 5 Australian Kelpie Breeders The Australians Would Be Proud Of
17. Berger Picard
Country of birth: France
This is another sassy Frenchman – a fine herding dog from the region of Picardy, which almost went extinct. It is also called ‘Berger de Picardie’, ‘Picard’, and ‘Picardy Sheepdog’.
He looks kinda funny and fuzzy with all that coat that sticks out around him.
This strong pooch is as stubborn as a donkey, but when you get him to do a task, then you can be sure that it will be done right.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
18. Mastiff
Country of birth: Persia
It is very hard to tell where the Mastiff breed comes from, and to correctly determine his traits. It is an ancient breed that has produced many variations during its time.
You may have heard of English Mastiffs, North American Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs, Neapolitan Mastiffs, Tibetan Mastiffs… and there are also many Mastiff mixes to check out.
The first association with this dog breed is his massiveness (that is why he encounters a problem that many big dogs have, including retrievers and others – elbow or hip dysplasia).
Due to his strength and speed, this dog is a very fine guardian that can manage livestock.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
19. Vizsla
Country of birth: Hungary
Either if you encounter a Vizsla or one of the Vizslas mixes, you can remain indifferent to this affectionate breed.
A Vizslas’ colors, and his agile appearance are two things that are most impressive to me.
Vizslas are best known to be hunters, but since they are so clever, strong, and fast, they can be trained to be capable of doing some other tasks, such as herding.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
20. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Country of birth: South Africa
This is another mighty fighter – this time, from Africa. And, when you are in Africa, there is another fauna you encounter.
A Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Rhodesian Ridgeback mix are strong and speedy, and they are not only known for being hunters, but also strong protectors.
He does not just protect his flock and property and people from wolves and bears, but also from lions, hyenas, and other predators.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
If you like this breed, you should check out the best Rhodesian Ridgeback breeders in the U.S.
21. Tornjak
Country of birth: Bosnia, Herzegovina, and Croatia
No, he won’t tear you apart… not unless you really get on his nerves. Although he is considered among the aggressive dog breeds, he will not attack if it isn’t necessary.
He is a very loyal dog that is not very fond of strangers, which makes him the perfect watchdog. And, he is a nightmare for wolves and bears that are lurking for his herds and flocks.
His name has another meaning. It is a term derived from the word ‘tor’, and that means a coat or a sheepfold in the local languages.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
22. Croatian Sheepdog
Country of birth: Croatia
There are the all-white dog breeds, and then there are the all-black dog breeds. And, we have to say that black has a different psychological effect. They seem more intimidating and dangerous.
Well, this all-black Croatian Sheepdog certainly does look intimidating to his flock of sheep, which he manages beautifully.
This fast dog can be at the bottom of the flock at one moment, and if necessary, at the top within seconds.
He will easily gather sheep, but also defend them from wolves and other predators.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
23. Belgian Tervuren
Country of birth: Belgium
This is another Belgian dog that is specialized in sheep herding. It differentiates from the Belgian Malinois with its long hair.
This dog will show you his love in all the possible ways. He can even get a little bit too much with all that.
But, when it comes to doing his herding job, this dog is perfect, and I must add he is tireless, too. Strong work ethics makes him herd his flock with no mistake.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
24. Groenendael
Country of birth: Belgium
This is one more hard-working and good-looking Belgian we have here. This one also has a working ethic of the German dogs, and you can be sure he will do the task as precisely as he is able.
This dog is also part of the herding group, and it is one of the Belgian sheepdogs. That is his main task, but he can do so much more. Just give him tasks and see what happens.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
25. Belgian Laekenois
Country of birth: Belgium
Next on our list of Belgian Sheepdogs is the Laekenois. He is one of the best shepherd dog breeds out there, but he can also be a great cattle dog if you train him to be.
It is least likely that you will find this dog… he is very rare.
This dog has a very protective attitude, and won’t back down at the sight of danger faced by his master or the property he guards.
He is the perfect sheepdog, but like many other clever herding breeds, he is versatile, and he can learn how to do any kind of job.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
26. Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Country of birth: Poland
Polski Owczarek Nizinny is his original name, but you can just call him Pon. He is a breed so old that he used to live with the Hun people.
That is how long they have been learning how to do herding properly, and now they are experts.
This dog looks kinda funny so he easily ends up on the list of weird dog breeds. But, he is still cute, though.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
27. Sarabi
Photo from: @sarabi.dog_persia
Country of birth: Persia
This dog is an ancient breed that is originally from the region of Sarab, in today’s Iran, and he looks as mystic as he sounds.
The Sarabi dog is a strong, bulky, and muscular fighter that was used to protect property and animals from wild predators, such as bears and wolves.
Yes, he can fight bears – he is that strong, believe it or not.
But, even though he sounds wild, this breed is actually calm and self controlled so he is a very successful manager of his flock of sheep, and also great at herding.
28. Mudi
Country of birth: Hungary
This is the dog that you call whenever you have a problem on a farm. If you have to gather your flock of sheep, call Mudi. If there is some threat to you or to your animals, call Mudi.
If there is a stubborn cow or your livestock won’t cooperate, call Mudi. Mudi for this… Mudi for that.
You can see how valuable this dog is. But, you won’t run into one easily. This dog is a rare sight, especially if you don’t live in Hungary or in Finland.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
29. Canaan Dog
Country of birth: Canaan
Yes… it is that ancient region we are talking about, and this dog is almost as old as the Bible. He is probably that dog that licked Lazarus’ wounds in the story.
When it comes to guarding, you will hear what he has to say because he is a loud dog. And, this one won’t back down in the sight of treath.
When he is trained well, he will use his naturally-given abilities in the best way possible.
Livestock as well as the owner can be carefree near this dog.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
See Also: 5 Canaan Dog Breeders Need Your Help To Make The Breed Famous
30. Komondor
Country of birth: Hungary
This is probably one of the funniest looking dogs, and he easily gets on the list of weird dog breeds and shaggy dog breeds. too.
But, he should also get on the big guard dogs list because he is exactly that – a guardian, and he is big.
He won’t pass unnoticed just as threats to his flock won’t pass unnoticed near him.
Besides being big, he is also strong and fast, which allows him to do his job well. In Hungary, they call him the Sheepdog king.
His name carries a meaning. It is derived from the people of Koman who first had this pooch.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
31. Great Pyrenees
Country of birth: Spain
This is easily one of the biggest dogs you will ever see. He looks intimidating, and he is intimidating to the predators who want to take away his sheep.
There are a few tips in Great Pyrenees training that will help you get yourself the perfect dog. He is very affectionate, and he can be really cuddly.
This majestic dog of beautiful colors can and will protect livestock because this is in his blood. It is the first thing he learned while in the Pyrenees mountains.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
32. Beauceron
Country of birth: France
The Beauceron is a kind of dog that gets very protective when he sees something small and helpless that is in danger whether it is kids or small animals.
And, many animals are smaller than the Beauceron. You can imagine this dog as a giant Border Collie.
He has more Border Collie traits. He is smart, capable in what he does, and is more than sensitive, too.
He is a watchdog and a guardian, and he will gather his flock in no time.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
33. Pumi
Country of birth: Hungary
The Pumi is a small, but capable Hungarian dog that does well with all sorts of livestock.
This compact dog is recognizable for his fur and cute, straight ears. This gives the impression of an attentive dog.
And, he is as attentive as he is agile, smart, and bold. He needs to be all of that in order to be good at what he does.
Work ethics, playfulness, and lots of energy are the perfect combination for this shepherd dog.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
34. Norwegian Buhund
Country of birth: Norway
As you may guess, this is a type of herder that is adjusted to cold weather.
He is a spitz-like dog, and he looks really cute. But, that doesn’t interrupt him in his work. The Buhund is a very responsible guardian.
He can be a great family dog, too. Just as many other sheepdogs, this one is also super intelligent and loyal.
He will gather his herd of livestock in a moment, and check if there are any of them missing.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
35. Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Photo from: @fietje.theodor
Country of birth: Switzerland
This dog will laugh in the face of any threat. They are best known for their smiles and friendly eyes. These make them look like they are happy all the time.
Mountain region this dog operates in is the Alps. He has a strong and vigilant body, and a beautiful appearance. What is most beautiful is his fur.
His name is a bit complicated so you can call him Entle.
He is a dog for an active owner, or at least an owner who has some other animals that need to be guarded and protected or herded. Our Entle friend will do that with no mistake.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
36. Anatolian Shepherd
Country of birth: Turkey
This is another ancient breed that hides behind many names. It is no wonder since he is here for all of eternity, you may say.
He is also known as the Kangal Shepherd, and the Kurdish Kangal Dog.
You can’t say this is a herding dog, but more of a dog that lives with his livestock and guards them all of the time. The Anatolian Shepherd grows into a huge dog!
If there is some wild animal lurking to devour one of his proteges, the Kangal will show his full strength.
The enemies he fights against are not dark forces, but wild forces. They are usually wolves or bears or jackals.
And, trust me… one does not want to fight with this dog because he will take you down, not to mention that he has one of the strongest bites in the dog world.
This is probably not something that you want to experience.
There are fine Anatolian Shepherd breeders out there, and if you want to check out the best in the U.S., click here.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
37. Spanish Water Dog
Photo from: @kas_pdae
Country of birth: Spain
He is both a hunter and a sheepdog. He is as good on land as he is awesome in water. He is used as a water retriever during hunting, but also as a guardian of flocks.
The funny part is that he has such an emphasized drive for herding that he will try to herd almost everything that has legs or just moves around, whether it’s other animals, children, or cars.
But, maybe it is best to use this capable creature to help you with your livestock, and perhaps he will be the happiest while doing so.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
38. Briard
Country of birth: France
The same as a Spanish Water Dog, the Briard is a dog that likes to herd… he really likes it. This means you should teach your kids how to behave around him.
But, if you have an opportunity, it is really best if you give this dog a real herding job, and by that, I mean some livestock or sheep to herd and protect.
Like other sheepdogs, he is also smart and cunning, and he is eager to listen to his master… a lot of potential that needs to be fulfilled.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
39. Icelandic Sheepdog
Country of birth: Iceland
Traditionally, for a sheepdog, this Icelandic type is one of the most interesting shepherd dog breeds. With his playful and loving nature, one just can’t resist this dog.
There is one trait that they have that is unexpected in a sheepdog. He is not very eager to be obedient. I mean, don’t get this wrong – he will do his job right, but not under anybody’s conditions.
So, give up on giving commands, and just trust him. His job is to bring back livestock healthy and alive from mountain pastures.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
40. Boerboel
Country of birth: South Africa
This is a Mastiff type of dog so you can guess it is a huge dog. You can check if you want to know his size. He can eat a lot, and here is the Boerboel feeding chart to prove it.
And, since he can eat a lot, he will grow big, and you can see this in the Boerboel growth chart.
His name means that he comes from a farm, and there, he does farm jobs.
He is best at droving, which is great if you possess livestock. But, don’t underestimate him… he is equally good at herding, drafting, and protecting.
But, it is not all about work here… this dog is awesome as a companion dog, too.
There is a fine choice of reputable Boerboel breeders in America you can check out.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
41. Bernese Mountain Dog
Country of birth: Switzerland
In Switzerland, there is the term, ‘Senn’, that marks a dairyman. Another term, ‘Sennen’, marks a pasture in the Alpine mountains. The term, ‘Hund’, is a word for ‘dog’.
So, our Bernese Mountain Dog is a Berner Sennenhund (or Bouvier Bernois, in the French-speaking part) or Bernese Cattle Dog.
For me, the Bernese Mountain Dog is super cute, as well as the Bernies mixes.
The Bernie is an all-purpose farm dog that can do drafting, pulling carts, and droving livestock. If trained, he is especially good at droving dairy cattle.
You can read more about the best Bernese Mountain Dog breeders in the USA.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
42. Puli
Country of birth: Hungary
To pull off a hairstyle like this takes a lot of attitude and nerve, and this small guard dog has it. I don’t know if that is his Shauma or if it comes to him naturally, but he is irresistible.
This dog is an expert in weird haircuts and in herding. Well, he better be. This breed has been doing it for 1,000 years already. I mean, that is a lot of time.
He both looks cool and acts cool, so it is hard to make him outrageous. But, he is not laid back if you think that. He is a responsible dog that will do his part of the job conscientiously.
You can leave him to take care of the animals with no worries on your mind.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
43. Swedish Vallhund
Country of birth: Sweden
Once upon a time, this breed was better known as the Vikingarnas Hund, which means what you think it means. Today’s name is a Swedish term for ‘herding dog’.
When you see this dog, you would think that he can’t do much, considering how small he is, and how big of animals he encounters. I mean, he works with sheep and cattle.
But, he has his ways, and being small has its advantages. Just like the Blue Heeler and the Shetland Sheepdog, the Vallhund likes to nip a leg a little bit.
He also uses his advantage by avoiding a kick from behind. Such a cute little capable dog.
You can find more about the ideal traits of this smart and capable dog in the breed standard.
Conclusion
Now that we have met all these cattle dog breeds, what do you think? Don’t you have the desire to buy yourself a few cows, a flock of sheep, a horse, and one herding dog, and then move to some peaceful pasture to live there happily ever after?
These dogs never stop to amaze me. It is almost unbelievable how smart these pooches are, and how agile, fast, and strong they can be. And, all of this is in one smaller or bigger ball of fur… amazing.
Sometimes, I just go to shutterstock to admire the pictures, but encountering these pooches is something else. Tell me which one you like the most?
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