Aherding dog, also known as astock dog orworking dog, is atype of dog that either has been trained inherdinglivestock or belongs to one of thebreeds that were developed for herding. A dog specifically trained to herdsheep is known as asheep dog or shepherd dog, and one trained to herdcattle is known as a cattle dog or cow dog.[citation needed]
The creation of herding dog breeds is associated with the development of sheep, goat and cattle breeding. Domestication of sheep and goats began in the 8th–7th millennium BC. Originally, this process began inWestern Asia, in the territory of modernIran andIraq. Shepherding was a difficult task: primitive herders did not have horses and moved their animals for grazing on foot as horses and donkeys were not yet fully domesticated or obedient enough. Dogs that previously helped humans in hunting became assistants in livestock maintenance. The main task for dogs in the early stages of herding was protecting herds from a variety of wild predators, which were very numerous.[1]
This function predetermined herding dogs' characteristics: they had to be strong, vicious, courageous, decisive, able to stand alone against a large predator and, most importantly, ready to defend their herd. The history of the ancestors of herding dogs can be traced back to six thousand years ago, archaeological findings of the joint remains of sheep and dogs date back to 3685 BC.[2] The place of their origin is considered to be the territories of modernTurkey, Iraq andSyria.
In the Old Testament, Job refers to "the dogs of my flock", although it is unclear whether these are guardian dogs or herding dogs.[1] The age of the book of Job is debated, with some placing it as early as c. 1800 B.C.E.[2] and others significantly later.
In the writings ofCato the Elder andVarro, images of dogs are found in works of art created more than two thousand years ago. These dogs were used not only to guard herds, but also for military purposes.[3]
From the regions of Western Asia, herding spread to the west and north, followed by an increase in the number of domestic animals. On the territory ofEurope, the progenitors of herding dogs appeared in the 6th to 7th centuries BC. According to archaeological research, cattle breeding and agriculture spread across Europe in different ways: along theDanube andRhine rivers to the territory of modernGermany, northernFrance and theNetherlands, through theMediterranean Sea to theAlps, up theRhone to central and southwestern France.[1][2]
There is evidence that theChiribaya culture ofPeru andChile bred and used a species of herding dog.[citation needed]Chiribaya dogs were believed to be used for herding llamas, and were valued highly enough by the Chiribaya to be buried in their own graves; often, the burial sites also included blankets or food.[4]
The development of agriculture, increasing the number of settlements and foundation of cities led to a decrease in the number of predators. After the extinction of large predators in most of Europe andGreat Britain, with the massive spread of sheep breeding and with an increase in the share of cultivated and populated land, the main task of herding dogs was to protect crops, private and protected areas from harm during grazing and moving herds. Shepherd dogs were more suitable for this work than larger and stronger breeds, being medium-sized and mobile. Such dogs managed small and large livestock, as well as domestic birds. In addition to the Central European type of shepherd, another type of dog has emerged, often with thick hair, more suitable for colder areas. These dogs have shown not only the ability to manage the herd, but also to protect it. With the spread of reindeer breeding among the northern peoples, huntingspitz-like dogs were "retrained" into shepherds.[3]
Most breeds of Central European shepherd dogs – with erect ears and short hair on the head, similar to wolves, were mainly formed in the 16th to 17th centuries. The breeds of curly-haired dogs of the Northern European type were formed later.[1]
InAustralia,New Zealand and theUnited States, herding dogs are known asworking dogs irrespective of their breeding.[5] Some herding breeds work well with any kind of animals; others have been bred for generations to work with specific kinds of animals and have developed physical characteristics or styles of working that enhance their ability to handle these animals. Commonlymustered animals includecattle,sheep,goats andreindeer,[6] although it is not unusual forpoultry to be handled by dogs.[7]
The term "herding dog" is sometimes erroneously used to describelivestock guardian dogs, whose primary function is to guard flocks and herds from predation and theft, and they lack the herding instinct. Although herding dogs may guard flocks their primary purpose is to move them; both herding dogs and livestock guardian dogs may be called "sheep dogs".
In general terms, when categorizing dog breeds, herding dogs are considered a subcategory ofworking dogs, but forconformation shows they usually form a separate group.
Australia has the world's largestcattle stations andsheep stations and some of the best-known herding dogs, such as theKoolie,Kelpie,Red and Blue Heelers are bred and found there.
Regardless of the conditions in which herding dogs work and what function they perform, they all have a number of common characteristics. Herding dogs are strong and have a lot of stamina. Their paws are well protected from thorns and sharp stones: toes are compressed into a tight lump, paw pads are thick, claws are strong. The coat has structure and density to protect from getting wet and temperature extremes common in the region of the breed origin. All herding dogs have excellent eyesight and hearing. Cattle dog colors are varied and depend on local breeders' preferences, but all herding dogs should have well-pigmented eyelids, lips, nose and paw pads, because pink skin is too delicate and prone to wounds and sunburn.[citation needed]
Many dog breeds are selectively bred for physical traits that will benefit them in their environments.Australian Cattle Dogs, for example, come in two main colors, Blue and Red. These two main coat colors feature variations, including Speckle and Mottle.[8] Border Collies feature similar patterns to Australian Shepherds, such as Black and White, Lilac, Merle, and Tricolor variations.[9] ThePatagonian Sheepdog's medium or long length coat comes in an abundance of colors, allowing it to not only be protected against the cold and possibly snow, but also camouflaged against the rocky Magallanes region.[10] Most herding dog breeds are medium to large in weight, and are bred to be muscular, lean, and agile to perform their duties.[11]
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Allherding behavior is modifiedpredatory behavior. Through selective breeding, humans have been able to minimize the dog's natural inclination to treat cattle and sheep as prey while simultaneously maintaining the dog's hunting skills, thereby creating an effective herding dog.[7][12]
Dogs can work other animals in a variety of ways. Some breeds, such as theAustralian Cattle Dog, typically nip at the heels of animals (for this reason they are calledheelers) and theCardigan andPembroke Welsh Corgis were historically used in a similar fashion in the cattle droves that moved cattle from Wales to theSmithfield Meat Market in London but are rarely used for herding today.
Other breeds, notably theBorder Collie, get in front of the animals and use what is calledstrong eye to stare down the animals;[13] they are known asheaders. Theheaders or fetching dogs keeplivestock in a group. They consistently go to the front or head of the animals to turn or stop the animal's movement. Theheelers or driving dogs keep pushing the animals forward. Typically, they stay behind the herd. TheAustralian Kelpie andAustralian Koolie use both these methods and also run along the backs of sheep so are said to head, heel, and back.[7][12][14] Other types such as theAustralian Shepherd,English Shepherd andWelsh Sheepdog aremoderate toloose eyed, working more independently. TheNew Zealand Huntaway uses its loud, deep bark to muster mobs of sheep.[15]Belgian Malinois,German Shepherd Dogs andBriards are historicallytending dogs, who act as a "living fence", guiding large flocks of sheep to graze, while preventing them from eating valuable crops and wandering onto roads.
Herding instincts and trainability can be measured when introducing a dog to livestock or at noncompetitive herding tests. Individuals exhibiting basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in herding trials.[6]
With behavior it will depend on the connection to each of the breed's repeating genes since some have similar connection to brain function within the genes of dogs working within the herding field. In the company of traits having learning, memory, mental and social skills. While being smart and focused but losing the desire to kill thought they are still good in the other traits to hunting.[16]
When it came to the different breeds, it was seen that aggression was an important trait to investigate when selecting a herder dog. Multiple traits that would come from aggression that was seen to be territorial defense, snapping, aggression to the family or to other dogs, as well as watch dog barking. Having aggressive behavior, whether small or large amounts, is seen to be due to genetics and it will be different with both females and males. The females seemed to have less aggression with more trainability but also lower activity levels and territorial defense compared to the male counterparts. Some breeds to imagine on the aggression scale could be the Irish wolfhound, Chow chow, Shar pei, and the Shetland Sheepdog.[17]
Having too much aggression or shyness is not the best quality for a herder regardless of the sex of the dog. Other important traits include intelligence, loyalty, and stamina.[18] While behaviors can be biological, they can also be learned as well as trained since they would have had to live in an environment once they're born. The type of breed can depend as well on the best type of herder but it could depend on the gender of the breed.[18]
Many parts of the world have specific herding dogs that have been bred for their specific environment or job. Despite the shift of many becoming family dogs, they still maintain these characteristic traits.
TheFinnish Lapphund originated in Lapland, Finland, with the earliest records being in 7000 BC.[19]These dogs specializes in herding reindeer, and tend to have a thick, double coat to help combat the cold winters and snow.[20]
Further East, theSamoyed originated and was aptly named after the Asian semi-nomadic residents who relied on these dogs for daily life. The Samoyed breed evolved alongside theSamoyede lifestyle; they went from hunting wild reindeer, to herding and helping domesticate reindeer. On top of their fur being excellent insulation and camouflage in their native homeland ofSiberia, the undercoat was frequently spun into wool by the Samoyede people and used for clothes.[21]
In Chile, the rarePatagonian Sheepdog is used frequently to herd sheep and other cattle farming. The Patagonian Sheepdog was selectively bred[22] in the 1900s for sheep herding, with a major contributor being the Old Welsh Grey.[10]
In Europe, there are many trademark herding dog breeds. Specifically, there are four recognizedBelgian shepherds. There is the Belgian Tervuren, Sheepdog, Laekenois and the notable Belgian Malinois, a type of Belgian Shepherd.[23] The Belgian Malinois was originally bred for a versatile, dependable farm companion. This included herding various livestock, such as goat, sheep, and even ducks.[23] In more recent times, the Belgian Malinois is more commonly used in police and rescue work around the world.
The Bergamasco Sheepdog, also known as theBergamasco Shepherd, originated within the mountainous town of Bergamo, Italy. It is notorious for being one of few dog breeds with tight "flock" coats. This trademark flocking is selected for to protect against climate and predators while herding sheep within the steep Alps.[24]
TheShetland Sheepdog originated in England, specifically west England.[21] Originally, they were used for herding sheep and horses. They have since become a common family and working dog within the United States, as well as popular agility competitors.[25]
ThePembroke Welsh Corgi originated in the year 1107, whenHenry I of England invited Flemish weavers to South Wales to work. The Corgi has served many purposes throughout history. Herding cattle, such as sheep and cow, are where this breed shines; the Corgi breed notably bite at heels of cattle to herd, and due to short stature, hold an advantage of avoiding the reactive kicks.[21]
In countries where herding is preserved, herding dogs continue to work for their main purpose and are appreciated as effective and even irreplaceable helpers that can save labor costs and avoid investments in expensive equipment. Economic studies in Australia have shown that herding dogs are worth more than five times their cost, including training and maintenance. Meanwhile, the popularity and the number of herding dogs are growing, and the scope of work for them is narrowing.[26]
In the 21st century, herding dogs are often chosen as familypets. Thecollie breeds including theBearded Collie andBorder Collie are well known, as are the Australian kelpie and Australian Working kelpie, WelshCorgis. They make good family dogs and are at their best when they have a job to do.[7] These dogs have beenbred asworking dogs and need to be physically and mentally active. They retain their herding instincts and may sometimes nip at people's heels or bump them in an effort to 'herd' their family, and may need to be trained not to do so.[7] Their activity level and intelligence makes them excellent canine athletes. TheAustralian Shepherd,Shetland Sheepdog,Rough Collie,Smooth Collie andOld English Sheepdog are more popular as family companion dogs.[7]
Dogs of herding breeds now often live in urban or suburban neighbourhoods. Their owners need to maintain their physical and mental health, taking into consideration their herding instinct and qualities. The services of dog-trainers are in demand, along with the training centres for working and sporting herding dogs, offering sheep rental and walks in the pasture. Dogs living in the suburbs and villages can work with small groups of animals or poultry. Sometimes owners even buy a few sheep so that their dogs can enjoy what they were originally bred for.[27][28]
Herding dog's high need for physical and intellectual activity can be fulfilled not only by herding, but also by other types of cynological sports. Herding dogs often occupy leading positions in agility, flyball, frisbee, dog dancing, and obedience. At the same time, in service, sport and show dogs of herding breeds that do not interact with livestock, the herding instinct is gradually weakened.[1][27]
The combination of quick learning ability, physical strength, endurance,[29] predatory behavior[30] with dedication to the owner and a desire to work has led to the widespread use of large European Shepherds for a number of other civil and military jobs. These are the most common police and military dogs employed in the guard, search, rescue and other types of services.[1][31] For example, in the United States, legally protected geese often pose serious problems for life and work. Here, border collies and other strong-eyed herding dogs are used to patrol crops, residential and recreational areas, parks, beaches, golf courses and, above all, airports. Protection from birds with the help of herding dogs turned out to be the most effective and only easily implemented way: walking through the patrolled area several times a day, the dogs force the geese to settle in places where they cause less trouble, while the nature is not being harmed.[32]
The competitivedog sport in which herding dogs move animals around a field, fences, gates, or enclosures as directed by their handlers is called asheepdog trial,herding test orstockdog trial depending on the area.[33] Such events are particularly associated with hill farming areas, wheresheep range widely on largelyunfenced land. These trials are popular in theUnited Kingdom,Ireland,South Africa,Chile,Canada, theUSA,Australia,New Zealand[34] and other farming nations, and have occasionally even become primetime television fare.[35]
In the US, regular events are run by the United States Border Collie Handler's Association, Australian Shepherd Club of America, American Kennel Club and many others.[6]
The world record price for a working border collie, Liz was broken May 2024 at the Ray White Livestock Rockhampton Working Dog Sale atGracemere sale yards, Greenland, with £32,150.00 ($40,000) for James and Helen Parker.[36] The previous record was in 2023 at £26,508.07 ($33,000) which was Liz's half brother, Sid and was sold to the same people, James and Helen Parker who bought Liz in 2024.
These commands may be indicated by a hand movement, whistle or voice. There are many other commands that are also used when working stock and in general use away from stock. Herding dog commands are generally taught using livestock as the modus operandi. Urban owners without access to livestock are able to teach basic commands through herding games.[6]
These are not the only commands used: there are many variations. When whistles are used, each individual dog usually has a different set of commands to avoid confusion when several dogs are being worked at one time.
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