The Herding Group Ranked By Popularity
Intelligent and Energetic Partners
↓ Skip directly to Herding BreedsHerding breeds were developed to control the movement of livestock with remarkable intelligence and precision. These highly trainable dogs combine athleticism with problem-solving skills, making them exceptional working partners and active companions.
Key Characteristics:
- Exceptional intelligence and trainability
- High energy levels requiring regular mental and physical stimulation
- Strong instinct to gather and control movement (may herd children/pets)
- Intense focus and work ethic
- Typically medium to large in size
Ideal For:
These bright, active dogs thrive with owners who can provide consistent training, socialization, and plenty of exercise. Perfect for those wanting an engaged canine partner for sports, work, or active companionship.
Understanding Breed Popularity:
While breeds like German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds are widely available, some herding breeds like Belgian Laekenois may have limited breeders.
Browse Herding Breeds By Popularity:
Size Range: The lower end of each height/weight range represents typical female measurements, while the higher end reflects male averages.
German Shepherd
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Herding, protection
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 50-90 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #4
Learn More
Australian Shepherd
Origin: United States
Purpose: Herding cattle/sheep
Height: 18-23"
Weight: 40-65 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #12
Learn More
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Origin: Wales
Purpose: Cattle herding
Height: 10-12"
Weight: 24-30 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #15
Learn More
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin: United States
Purpose: Ranch work
Height: 13-18"
Weight: 20-40 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #24
Learn More
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Sheep herding
Height: 13-16"
Weight: 15-25 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #29
Learn More
Border Collie
Origin: United Kingdom
Purpose: Sheep herding
Height: 18-22"
Weight: 30-55 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #30
Learn More
Belgian Malinois
Origin: Belgium
Purpose: Herding, protection
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 40-80 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #33
Learn More
Collie
Sooth & Rough
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Sheep herding
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 50-75 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #39
Learn More
Australian Cattle Dog
Origin: Australia
Purpose: Cattle herding
Height: 17-20"
Weight: 35-50 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #49
Learn More
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Origin: Wales
Purpose: Cattle herding
Height: 10.5-12.5"
Weight: 25-38 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #60
Learn More
Old English Sheepdog
Origin: England
Purpose: Sheep driving
Height: 21-26"
Weight: 60-100 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #89
Learn More
Beauceron
Origin: France
Purpose: Herding, protection
Height: 24-27.5"
Weight: 70-110 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #100
Learn More
Bouvier des Flandres
Origin: Belgium
Purpose: Farm work, herding
Height: 23-28"
Weight: 70-110 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #101
Learn More
Belgian Tervuren
Origin: Belgium
Purpose: Herding, protection
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 45-75 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #107
Learn More
Mudi
Origin: Hungary
Purpose: Herding, farm work
Height: 15-18.5"
Weight: 18-29 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #122
Learn More
Finnish Lapphund
Origin: Finland
Purpose: Reindeer herding
Height: 16-21"
Weight: 33-53 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #129
Learn More
Belgian Sheepdog
Origin: Belgium
Purpose: Herding, protection
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 45-75 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #131
Learn More
Bearded Collie
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Herding, companion
Height: 20-22"
Weight: 45-55 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #140
Learn More
Icelandic Sheepdog
Origin: Iceland
Purpose: Herding livestock
Height: 16.5-18"
Weight: 25-30 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #143
Learn More
Briard
Origin: France
Purpose: Herding, guarding
Height: 22-27"
Weight: 55-100 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #145
Learn More