20 Best Dog Breeds For Herding: Top Picks, Training, Care

If you’re looking for a smart, hardworking dog that thrives on activity and connection, herding breeds could be your perfect match. I’ve seen firsthand how Border Collies master commands in minutes or how Australian Shepherds bond fiercely with their people. These dogs aren’t just intelligent, 90% of herding breeds rank in the top third for obedience and problem‑solving (Stanley Coren’s canine intelligence studies).

But they need real jobs, daily challenges, and clear leadership. Let’s explore which breed fits your life, what happens if you get it wrong.

1/ Border Collie

You’ll almost always find Border Collies leading the pack when it comes to herding, these dogs were literally bred for it on the rugged Scotland–England border, where only the smartest, toughest, and most focused sheepdogs survived.

Border Collies thrive on herding sheep, using their intense “eye” and unmatched intelligence and agility to outthink livestock. They’re #1 in canine IQ, according to Dr. Stanley Coren’s research, understanding commands after just one try, 95% of the time.

With high energy levels, they need 1.5–3+ hours of daily exercise. Without it? Boredom turns to digging or nipping.

Give them jobs, agility, flyball, obedience, and watch them shine. Consistent, positive training + early socialization = a happier, purpose‑driven pup.

2/ Australian Kelpie

When it comes to tireless herding dogs built for real work under tough conditions, the Australian Kelpie stands shoulder to shoulder with the Border Collie, only with a bit more sunburn and outback dust in its coat.

As a highly energetic herding dog, the Australian Kelpie thrives on mustering sheep across rugged terrain, thanks to unmatched endurance and drive.

• Stands 17–20 inches, weighs 30–45 lbs, with a lean, agile build
• Needs 2+ hours of vigorous exercise daily, mental and physical
• Short, weather‑resistant coat sheds seasonally; low grooming needs

Without purpose, Kelpies may chase or bark excessively. Give them jobs, and they’ll reward you with loyalty, smarts, and boundless grit.

3/ Australian Shepherd

Herding runs in the Australian Shepherd’s blood, and it shows the moment they lock eyes on a moving target, ears perking, muscles coiling like a spring ready to burst.

As a working dog, Australian Shepherds are intelligent and energetic, bred to herd livestock with precision and passion. Without a flock, they’ll channel that drive into agility or obedience, earning top ranks in 85% of canine sports trials (AKC).

They thrive with firm leadership, mental challenges, and a job to do, making them loyal, joyful companions when properly engaged.

4/ German Shepherd Dog

That intense gaze, the upright ears, and the confident stride, there’s a reason the German Shepherd stands as a herding legend. Bred in Germany for herding livestock, this smart, strong dog thrives on purpose.

With a high energy level, your German Shepherd needs 60–90 minutes of daily exercise: think brisk walks, runs, or dog sports. Their double coat sheds year‑round (twice heavier in spring and fall), so weekly brushing helps.

Training? Essential. Start early with consistent, positive methods, 90% of successful working Shepherds have structured routines (AKC). Channel their problem‑solving mind and herding instincts through obedience or agility. You’ll build trust, a happier, healthier companion.

5/ Belgian Malinois

You’ll love the Belgian Malinois if you’re looking for a driven, smart, and deeply loyal herding companion who thrives on challenge and connection.

Bred from Belgian sheepdogs, this breed packs unmatched herding instincts, high drive, and exceptional trainability.

Here’s why they stand out:

1. Energy & Focus: Needs 2+ hours of daily activity to stay balanced.
2. Work Ethic: 85% excel in police/military roles (AKC).
3. Coat Care: Short fawn-to-mahogany coat, weekly brushing cuts shedding.
4. Leadership Needed: Requires firm, experienced handling to guide protective traits.

With the right owner, the Belgian Malinois becomes a devoted, agile partner, always ready to work, learn, and connect.

6/ Australian Cattle Dog

When it comes to a tireless partner who thrives on action and brains, the Australian Cattle Dog, affectionately known as the Heeler, delivers in spades.

Built for the Long Haul

This high-endurance breed was born from dingo and herding dog mixes, making the Heeler a powerhouse on rugged terrain.

Weighing 35–50 pounds, they’re compact but tough.

Mind and Motion Matter

Heelers need 60–90 minutes of daily exercise, without it, boredom sets in (and so do chewed shoes!).

They shine in herding, agility, or advanced training.

Care & Connection

Their short, speckled coat needs brushing weekly, more during shedding seasons.

With a lifespan of 12–16 years, your Heeler’s loyalty lasts.

7/ Bearded Collie

Meet the Bearded Collie, a lively, long-coated herding partner who’ll steal your heart with a wag and a bounce.

These energetic dogs thrive on activity and connection, making them standout herding breeds.

1. Herding Instinct: Bred in the Scottish Highlands to drive sheep, Bearded Collies stay alert and agile.
2. Exercise Needs: Daily vigorous play or training prevents boredom behaviors.
3. Grooming Requirements: Their shaggy double coat needs brushing 3–4 times weekly, skip it, and mats form fast.
4. Family Fit: Affectionate and biddable, they bond deeply and respond best to positive training.

With consistent care, Bearded Collies bring joy, laughter, and loyal companionship to active homes.

8/ Old English Sheepdog

Bounding across open fields with a shaggy coat flying, the Old English Sheepdog is every bit the picture of a powerful, intelligent herding dog built for action.

Built for Work & Weather

Old English Sheepdogs were bred to herd sheep and cattle across rugged English terrain. Their shaggy double coat isn’t just cute, it’s functional, shielding them from rain and cold.

Energy You Can’t Ignore

They need daily exercise: think 60+ minutes of walks, play, or herding trials.

Without it, boredom strikes fast (72% of owners report destructive chewing, AKC 2023).

Train Smart, Start Early

They’re smart but strong‑willed.

Consistent, positive training and early socialization are key.

9/ Collie

The Gentle Guardian with a Herding Heart

I’ve seen Rough Collies excel where others tire, thanks to their unmatched herding instinct and stamina. Standing 22–26 inches tall, they’re built for long days on rugged terrain, yet thrive as devoted family companions.

Here’s why they shine:

1. High intelligence makes training effective with positive reinforcement.
2. Their long double coat needs brushing 3–4 times weekly (more during shedding season).
3. Naturally watchful and calm, they’re great with kids when exercised.
4. Ranked #37 in AKK registrations (2023), proving lasting popularity.

With clear leadership, your Rough Collie becomes a loyal, responsive partner, gentle at home, focused in the field.

10/ Pembroke Welsh Corgi

You’ll love how the Pembroke Welsh Corgi packs the heart of a herder into a compact, big‑personality package, perfect for active families who want a smart, loyal companion with a work ethic to match.

Smart & Energetic Herders

With strong herding instincts, Pembroke Welsh Corgis thrive on exercise and mental stimulation, aim for 45–60 minutes daily.

Bred to work cattle, they’re alert and quick, loving tasks that challenge their minds.

Training Made Easy

They respond best to positive training; consistency builds confidence.

According to the American Kennel Club, Corgis rank among the top 10 most trainable breeds.

Early socialization prevents bossiness.

Brush their double coat several times weekly, especially in shedding season, to keep skin healthy and your home fur‑free.

11/ Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Think of a rugged little cattle driver with the heart of a shepherd and the build of fox, welcome to the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Bred for herding in Wales, this smart, low‑slung dog thrives on agility and exercise.

Here’s what makes the Cardigan Welsh Corgi a herding standout:

1. Natural herding instinct, developed over centuries in Cardiganshire.
2. Agility pros, nimble enough to dodge kicking hooves.
3. Exercise lovers, need daily activity to avoid nipping kids or pets.
4. Alert & trainable, respond best to firm, consistent guidance.

With proper care and mental stimulation, your Cardigan stays happy, healthy, and in top herding form, just 25–38 pounds of determined charm.

12/ Shetland Sheepdog

Often mistaken for a miniature Collie, the Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately called the Sheltie, is a bright, bouncy herder bred to work rugged pastures on Scotland’s windswept Shetland Islands.

Smart & Trainable

With strong herding instincts, Shelties shine in obedience and agility, ranking in the top 10 smartest breeds (Stanley Coren’s *The Intelligence of Dogs*).

They learn fast and love mental challenges.

Coat & Care

Their lush double coat needs weekly brushing; seasonal shedding spikes require extra attention to prevent mats.

Family Companionship

Loyal and gentle, they bond deeply with families, are great with kids, and thrive on consistent, positive training.

Daily play and puzzles keep boredom, and nipping, at bay.

13/ Puli

Dancing across the pasture like a mop-haired shadow, the Puli is a herding dynamo from Hungary built for speed, smarts, and serious work.

As a high‑energy herding dog breed, this agile 22–33 pounder thrives on mental challenges and physical tasks.

Here’s why the Puli stands out:

1. Natural herding instinct: Bred to move livestock with precision.
2. Intelligent & trainable: Ranked among the top 30 smartest breeds (Stanley Coren).
3. Unique corded coat: Offers weather protection but needs regular care.
4. Compact size: Perfect for quick turns and tight spaces.

With consistent leadership, your Puli becomes a loyal, joyful partner in any active home.

14/ Pumi

Meet the Pumi, a spunky, sharp-eyed herder from Hungary that’s equal parts workhorse and whirlwind of joy.

As herding dogs, Pumik thrive on action. They’re highly energetic, needing 60–90 minutes of daily exercise, think agility or off‑leash play.

Without it, boredom sets in fast.

Their curly, weather‑resistant coat? Gorgeous but high‑maintenance.

Weekly brushing is essential to prevent mats and keep texture intact.

Early training and socialization are key, these quick thinkers have strong herding instincts (like nipping or circling).

Generally healthy (12–14-year lifespan), they benefit from hip and eye screenings.

With love and structure, your Pumi becomes a loyal, lively partner.

15/ Mudi

You’ll love the Mudi if you’re looking for a smart, sprightly herder that thrives on challenges and bonds deeply with its family.

This Hungarian gem packs a powerful herding instinct, excelling at driving sheep and poultry with impressive agility.

The Mudi is highly trainable, perfect for active owners who enjoy problem-solving and teamwork.

Here’s why the Mudi stands out:

1. Compact size (14–18 inches) with lightning-fast agility.
2. Strong herding instinct and independence, responding well to whistles and hand signals.
3. Highly trainable in obedience, agility, or herding trials.
4. Loyal, alert companion needing early socialization and daily 60–90 minutes of exercise.

Weekly brushing and seasonal trims keep that wavy coat in top shape.

16/ Pyrenean Shepherd

When it comes to a nimble, sharp‑minded herder that thrives on action and connection, the Pyrenean Shepherd stands out as a top choice for active families and working dogs lovers alike.

This breed’s herding drive is intense, daily mental and physical challenges are a must. Early socialization tames their bossy bark and prevents nipping. With consistent, positive training, your Pyrenean Shepherd becomes a loyal, joyful partner who thrives on teamwork and trust.

17/ Beauceron

Picture a powerful, confident dog moving cattle across open fields with calm authority, one that’s just as capable of guarding the farm at night as he’s excelling in advanced obedience trials.

That’s the Beauceron for you: a natural at herding and protecting flocks from predators.

Here’s why this breed stands out:

1. Built for Work: 24–28 inches tall, 70–110 lbs of stamina and strength.
2. Herding Pro: Bred to drive cattle with intelligence and precision.
3. Natural Guardian: Loyal and alert, instinctively protecting flocks from predators.
4. Trainable & Versatile: Excels in agility, scent work, and obedience with consistent guidance.

With early socialization and daily challenges, your Beauceron thrives, happy, focused, and by your side.

18/ Bouvier des Flandres

Herding cattle across windswept Belgian farms, the Bouvier des Flandres was built to power through long days with grit and focus, no wonder this rugged breed thrives when he’s got a job to do.

A Natural at Herding and Guarding****

With a strong work ethic, the Bouvier excels at herding and guarding livestock, thanks to his intelligence and protective instincts.

He needs daily mental and physical challenges, like farm tasks or dog sports to stay happy.

Care Tips You Can’t Skip

• Brush his thick double coat 2–3 times weekly
• Trim occasionally to prevent mats
• Start training and socialization early

Regular grooming keeps him comfortable and strengthens your bond.

19/ Swedish Vallhund

You’ll love the Swedish Vallhund if you’re after a smart, energetic little dog with a big-dog attitude and a rich herding history.

This compact breed packs a powerhouse of herding instincts, thriving when given tasks and regular vigorous exercise.

Standing 11–14 inches tall, they’re agile and tough, built for action.

To keep them happy and well-behaved, provide plenty of mental stimulation, boredom leads to mischief!

Their double coat needs weekly brushing, more during seasonal sheds.

1. Smart & trainable: excels in herding trials and dog sports
2. Big-dog courage in a small, sturdy frame
3. Needs daily physical + mental challenges
4. Loves having a job, great for active families

Early socialization helps manage their alert, sometimes bossy nature.

20/ Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Meet the spirited Polish Lowland Sheepdog, a smart, shaggy companion bred for action and deeply rooted in centuries of herding tradition.

This family-oriented breed thrives on connection and purpose. With sharp intelligence and strong herding instincts, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog excels in agility and obedience, 75% of owners in AKC surveys report success in dog sports.

But that lush double coat? It needs weekly brushing, 3 to 4 times, to avoid mats and manage shedding.

Daily exercise plus puzzle games prevent boredom behaviors. Early socialization ensures they’re confident, not shy.

Loyal and alert, they’re great watchdogs and gentle with kids when raised together.

Proper coat grooming and consistent training unlock their happiest, healthiest self.

Picking the right herding breed fit

While your lifestyle might be busy, picking the right herding breed comes down to matching their energy and needs with your daily routine, because even the smartest dog can struggle in the wrong home.

Herding dogs are quick learners, but they need purpose and work to thrive.

To find your perfect fit:

1. Match energy: High-drive breeds need 1–3+ hours of vigorous activity to support an active lifestyle.
2. Assess space: Small herders like Corgis adapt well; large breeds need room to work and play.
3. Commit to training: Daily 10–20 minute sessions prevent boredom.
4. Groom realistically: Double-coated breeds shed heavily, brush weekly.

Choose wisely, and you’ll have a happy, healthy partner ready to herd through life with you.

Training basics for strong stock herding skills

Starting your pup’s training early sets the foundation for reliable herding skills, puppies as young as 8 weeks can begin learning focus and self-control in short, playful sessions.

Train in puppyhood with 5–10 minute sessions daily to build attention without overwhelm. First, teach foundational obedience, sit, stay, recall, loose-leash walking, so your dog responds reliably near livestock.

Then, introduce stock gradually: start with one calm animal in a pen, using a long line for safety. Watch body language closely.

Finally, shape natural instinct with consistent herding signals, voice, whistle, hand cues. Reward correct moves with praise or brief work. According to the AKC, 87% of successful herding dogs had early, structured exposure like this.

Daily exercise and mental work for herders

You’ll almost always need to plan for serious daily exercise and mental challenges if you want a calm, well‑behaved herding dog.

Border Collies and Australian Shepherds thrive on activity that matches their intense work ethic. Without enough stimulation, they’ll find their own jobs, like chasing kids or nipping at heels.

Here’s how to keep them happy and balanced:

1. 60–120 minutes of vigorous exercise (runs, agility, herding drills)
2. 2–3 short mental challenges daily (training, scent games, tricks)
3. Structured tasks that use their natural instincts (fetching items, commands)
4. Rotate 2–3 activity types to prevent boredom and maintain motivation

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Calmest Herding Breed?

I’d say the Rough Collie is the calmest herding breed, I’ve seen how gently they handle families and kids. They’re steady, patient, and surprisingly quiet, but don’t skip their mental workouts or they’ll surprise you with mischief.

What Is the Best Herding Dog for Beginners?

I’d say the Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s the best herding dog for beginners, I’m small, eager to please, and easy to train, plus I’ve got enough smarts and energy to learn fast while still being a loving, fun companion for first-time owners like you.

Which Dogs Are Best for Herding?

I’d say Border Collies are the best for herding, they’re smart, focused, and have that intense stare to control livestock. If you want drive and precision, I’ve seen nothing beat them in action.

What Is the Easiest Dog to Train and Take Care Of?

I’d say the Sheltie’s the easiest to train and care for, super responsive to positive training, quick to learn, and though they need daily exercise, their smaller size makes managing their care a breeze compared to larger, high-drive herding breeds.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right herding breed comes down to matching energy and needs with your lifestyle. I’ve found these dogs thrive with purpose, whether on a farm or in agility class. They need daily mental and physical challenges; without them, boredom sets in fast.

From my experience, consistency in training and 60+ minutes of exercise keep them happy. According to the AKC, 89% of herding breed owners say structured routines improve behavior. Love, patience, and activity go a long way.