There are several dog breeds, and it’s no surprise that we’re about to discuss another group. The shepherd dog is one of the most popular dogs in the world.
These breeds have been around long and were bred to assist farmers in herding livestock, including flocks of sheep. Today, people use them for guarding property, police work, and military service.
There are several types of Sheps, each with its personality and characteristics. So, in this blog post, we’ll discuss the world’s different types of shepherd dogs.
1. German Shepherd
German Shepherds should be the first to cross the mind when you hear of shepherd breeds. They are a large breed of dog from Germany, with an average height of 26 inches. These herding breeds are loyal, intelligent, and protective.
Also, they are very good at working and protecting their owners. They’re so protective that many people use them as guards and police dogs. Therefore, they’re great for protection and as family pets.
German shepherds also make excellent watchdogs because you can train them to alert you when someone comes near your home. Furthermore, German shepherds are highly loyal to their families.
However, these excellent herding breeds don’t like strangers approaching them or their families. They are aggressive towards intruders and strangers.
That said, if you train German shepherds properly, they won’t attack anyone who isn’t threatening you or your family.
2. Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie is another breed among the different types of shepherd dogs. This breed was developed by crossing two other breeds: the Collie and the Border Terrier. It has a short coat and weighs between 50-80 pounds.
This breed is friendly and playful. Also, it loves children and will protect them from harm. These dogs aren’t known for being gentle with small animals.
However, they do get along well with larger animals such as cattle. They’re often used to herd livestock so that we can classify them under herding breeds. The Australian Kelpie dog has a lot of energy with excellent herding instincts.
Moreover, it needs a lot of exercises to prevent it from being boring, making it more destructive. This breed is cautious, so it’s careful around strangers.
Don’t be surprised if your Australian Kelpie frequently battles little health issues; it’s normal. However, ensure that you provide primary healthcare to this mixed breed.
3. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is yet another type of shepherd dog breed. They originated in Spain, but shepherds took them to Australia and later to the United States. So, the Americans named this shepherd dog breeds Australian Shepherds.
These dogs are of medium size and weigh between 60-90 pounds. They have short hair coats, usually black or brown, and their coats are thick. So, they’re resistant to heat.
Australian Shepherds are highly energetic and active. As a result, they love playing with kids and need regular exercise. Also, they’re social dogs that enjoy spending time with humans.
They’ll fit perfectly into an active family lifestyle. However, they may bark excessively at strangers. So, they’re good at guarding against intruders and thieves.
Further, these smart breeds are excellent at guarding livestock and can be territorial. That means they might not tolerate any stranger coming into your yard.
If you want to keep your Australian Shepherd happy, you’ll need to train him. Ensure that he knows his commands before allowing him to interact with others.
4. Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is one of the most popular types of shepherd dogs. This medium-sized breed from Iceland is friendly and an excellent herder. People bred these dogs to help farmers during the harsh winters in Iceland.
So, this breed is robust and sturdy. In fact, it’s the strongest breed of all the shepherd dogs. It’s also quite agile and athletic.
As a result, it’s suitable for working on farms and ranches. Moreover, it’s great for hunting because it can run long distances without getting tired.
That said, these dogs don’t like cold weather. So, ensure you give them enough food and shelter when winter comes. Also, please don’t leave them outside at night because they could freeze.
Further, this popular breed has a thick, double coat with pointed ears and a bushy tail. If you have this dog, you should learn to do plenty of exercise with them because they’re full of energy.
5. Belgian Shepherd
The Belgian Shepherd breed is another type among the different types of shepherd dogs. It’s an agile and muscular breed; people also refer to it as Groenendael. Although this breed has four varieties, the Belgian Shepherd is the most famous.
These four separate breeds originate from the same place; Belgium. And they are the Malinois, Belgian Laekenois, Belgian Sheepdog, and the Tervuren. Despite the difference in their appearances, they are all agile and intelligent.
This breed originated in Belgium, where shepherds developed it. The Belgians even made it a national symbol. So, the name of this breed came from its origin.
However, the Belgians didn’t take this breed to other countries until after World War II. So, the American Kennel Club recognized this breed as a new breed in 1955.
Belgium is famous for being a country that produces high-quality products. So, if you want a reliable dog, you should consider buying a Belgian Shepherd.
Belgian Shepherds are medium-sized dogs that weigh around 50-60 pounds. They have a double coat, which is soft and dense. Their fur color ranges from white to red.
Further, these breeds need much exercise to stimulate their mental health and kill boredom. It also helps them to prevent destructive behaviors.
You can engage them in dog sports, as they’re excellent at various sports. However, their prey instincts are significantly high, so they tend to chase anything on the move.
6. Border Collies
Border Collies are among the different collies types and are popular dog breeds. According to AKC, Border Collies are the smartest dog breeds in the world.
Experienced owners of this breed say that they’re good at everything. That said, border collies are highly trainable and are famous for having a calm temperament.
Moreover, they’re gentle and kind. These dogs love children, and they’re very protective of them. Because of this, many parents choose to buy border collies.
However, these dogs aren’t easy to handle. In fact, they need lots of training. But, once you get used to handling them, you’ll never regret your decision.
Furthermore, these dogs are very loyal and obedient. Therefore, they’re perfect as family dogs.
In addition, they’re very active and energetic. This makes them ideal for any outdoor activity and lots of exercises. Plus, they’re great at guarding livestock.
Because of this, border collies are often used by farmers. Also, they’re suitable for working in law enforcement agencies. In fact, the Border Collie is one of the best police dogs. They’re also trained to detect drugs and explosives.
7. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is an excellent shepherd dog that we can’t overlook while listing the types of shepherd dogs.
They were developed in Australia and came about because ranchers wanted a dog. So, this breed helped them herd cattle across expansive lands.
The Australian Cattle Dog strongly desires to work with people and animals. As such, they’re excellent companions for families who live on farms.
This breed needs a lot of exercise, but not too much. Otherwise, they may become aggressive. Plus, they need a lot of attention and affection.
Also, they’re very friendly and social. They enjoy playing with kids and other pets. The Australian cattle dog is brilliant and eager to learn new things. Thus, they make excellent therapy dogs.
Further, they’re very playful and athletic; hence, they’re excellent for agility competitions. Finally, they’re very protective of their owners and loved ones. Therefore, they’re fantastic guard dogs.
8. Welsh Corgi
The Welsh Corgi breed is a small dog that originated in Wales. Though they don’t look like average shepherd dogs, they are famous herding breeds. People also refer to them as Welsh Pembrokes, and the Queen of England made them famous.
Due to their short stature, they’re very agile and fast. Plus, Welsh Corgis are famous for being intelligent and frequent shedders due to their short coats.
Welsh Corgis are also adorable. Furthermore, they’re very loving and sweet. Also, Welsh Corgis are brilliant and quick learners. Hence, they’re excellent for those who want a fun and challenging pet.
Plus, they’re very loyal and devoted. Therefore, they’re lovely for families with young children. Also, they’re excellent for animal lovers.
Finally, the Welsh Corgi breed is powerful and sturdy. Thus, they’re great for hunting or herding sheep and goats.
9. Bohemian Shepherd
Bohemian Shepherds originated in Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic. It’s a rare breed, but it’s becoming more popular nowadays.
These dogs have long hair, large ears, and a white coat. Also, they have black noses and dark eyes. They’re incredibly loyal and protective of their masters and loved ones. Moreover, they’re good-natured and gentle, clever and intelligent.
Bohemian Shepherds are highly trainable and obedient and are very patient and calm. Thus, they’re perfect for anyone who wants a quiet companion.
In addition, they’re very affectionate and loving, with high sensitivity and response. As such, they make lovely family pets.
Furthermore, the Bohemian Shepherd is very active and energetic. Hence, they’re great for people who love outdoor activities. Additionally, they’re very healthy and robust. Thus, they’re ideal for working in cold climates.
10. Bouvier
The last on our list of the different types of shepherd dogs is the Bouvier breed. These medium-sized dogs originate from France and have a rough outer coat.
They were initially bred to hunt rabbits and hares. However, today, people primarily use them for guarding livestock and hunting game.
As such, Bouviers can be pretty fierce when necessary. They’re courageous, fearless, and independent but can be stubborn too.
However, despite their stubbornness, they’re still very gentle and kind. Plus, they’re very loyal to their owners and loved ones, making them excellent companions.
Also, Bouviers are very intelligent and alert. Hence, they’re perfect for training and obedience classes.
Conclusion
So there you have it! We’ve listed down the different types of shepherd dog breeds. Hopefully, you’ll find your next best friend here. You can also share your thoughts with us in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!
