Herding dog: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

A herding dog is a dog that either has been trained in herding or that is a member of a breed developed originally for herding.

Dogs can herd other animals in a variety of ways. Some breeds typically nip at the animals' heels; others, notably the Border Collie, get in front of the animals and use what is called "eye" to stare down the animals. Shorter breeds, such as Welsh Corgis, were bred so that they would be out of the way when cattle, their primary intended target, kicked out at the dog.

Herding dog is also sometimes used to refer to dogs whose primary job is to guard the herd from predators and to be sure that it does not go astray.

Some dogs work well with any kinds 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. Commonly herded animals include cattle, sheep, and reindeer.

Herding breeds include the following:

• Collies, including:
  • Border Collie
  • Bearded Collie
  • Smooth Collie
  • Rough Collie
• Welsh Corgis, including
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi
  • Cardigan Welsh Corgi
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Australian Cattle Dog
• Australian Shepherd
• Pyrenean Mountain Dog
• Pyrenean Shepherd

See also Sheep dog