Categories of Dogs - Herding Dogs
In this article we talk about the dog category of Herding Dogs (the guys that keep order).
The Herding Group, created in 1983, is the newest AKC classification; its members were formerly members of the Working Group. All breeds share the fabulous ability to control the movement of other animals. A remarkable example is the low-set Corgi, perhaps one foot tall at the shoulders, that can drive a herd of cows many times its size to pasture by leaping and nipping at their heels. The vast majority of Herding dogs, as household pets, never cross paths with a farm animal.
Nevertheless, pure instinct prompts many of these dogs to gently herd their owners, especially the children of the family. In general, these intelligent dogs make excellent companions and respond beautifully to training exercises.
Although most of these are now simple companion dogs that have never even seen a sheep, the instinct to herd in some of them can be strong. They require owners who are skilled at training and willing to give them "work" that rewards their instincts.
SOURCES
[1] "The National Dog Show"
[2] "Animal Planet"
[3] "American Kennel Club"
[4] "Dog Conspiracy"
