We often hear that if you are into more things at once, then you will end up doing nothing.
But that’s not true when it comes to dogs.
They can be herders, hunters, guards, or even a lazy couch potato who enjoys naps. They keep the flock in direction and also protect the animals from predators.
Working dogs have protective and strong herding instincts due to their history. They reduce the workload of the farmers by guarding their property and herding livestock even when they are away. These master herders consider themselves members of the herd and do not want to lose any of them.
They are all good, but left you confused when it comes to choosing one breed. And let’s be honest, they are all different in their grooming, exercise, and behavior.
So, we have listed the top 7 working dog breeds to help you choose the one that meets your needs and lifestyle. Stick by and read the characteristics and demands of each dog before you regret having one.
Top Working Dog Breeds That Master Herding and Guard Duty
1. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois is a smart, enegetic and confident dog breed with a herding history in Belgium. It was bred to herd and protect livestock first, but then also served in the police/military.
Mal is an athletic and strong dog that keeps the flock in direction. Honestly, they are highly agile and nip the livestock’s feet to direct them. With that said, they also protect animals with their growling sounds and sharp teeth. But don’t mistake them for gentle dogs.
This medium-sized dog breed has a high bite force of 195 PSI, so they attack the predator to keep their flock safe.
Belgian Malinois is famous for its loyalty and history of serving in military K-9. This courageous dog breed even has a life-size bronze in Fayetteville, North Carolina, as per the AKC.
Their loyalty makes them perfect family pets and guards, but they are only for experienced pet parents. Although they have a loving nature, they often become destructive and start biting everything, which is quite concerning for families with kids.
But if you are getting them for herding/guarding, do not miss the chance. They do not really shed that much (seasonal only) and require 2 hours of exercise for mental stimulation.
2. German Shepherd
This list would have been incomplete without naming the all-rounder, the German Shepherd. They are smart enough to herd a flock and gentle enough to be a family pet.
This dog breed originated in Germany, and Von Stephantiz crossed multiple dogs to produce them. You probably have seen this pup in the Rin Tin Tin movie, during the K-9 military, or in your neighbourhood.
They are the most popular and the smartest dog breed, PetMD explains. This herding dog has a strong prey drive, as they used to herd sheep first, so you have to train them well.
Don’t be fooled by their innocent face or expressive eyes because they have the potential to chew your furniture and chase every moving object. But it’s not that common and happens when they have nothing to do, so keep them busy.
German Shepherd is a highly energetic breed, so you have to take them out to expend their boundless energy. Honestly, they are the sweetest pets and are also called a one-man breed. So yeah, they do have their favorites in the family (no doubt it will be YOU).
3. Entlebucher Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a workholic dog and was bred in Switzerland. It used to herd cattle up in the mountains and then direct them back to the valley in winter.
These farm dogs nip on the animals’ feet for directions and keep an eye on them when they are grazing. Entel is also called the laughing dog, and they love to stay around their owners. They are smart, confident, and affectionate toward kids and families.
Apart from this, Entel requires daily exercise for mental stimulation. They start digging holes, chewing objects, and herding other animals at home when getting bored. This mountain dog is highly trainable, and you can also use treats and rewards to engage them daily.
These medium-sized pups love playing fetch, herding trails, puzzles, and field trails. But one of the best traits of Entel is its low maintenance. These dogs have a short coat that does not shed much, and it’s actually a bonus for allergy sufferers.
4. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dog has a complex and long breeding history. Jack and Harry crossed the Dalmatian and Elloit ACD to produce the ACD we see today, as per the American Kennel Club.
These medium-sized dogs are muscular, study and highly energetic. ACD is also known as red and blue heelers, depending on their coat color. They have innate herding instincts and nip at cattle’s feet to move them.
This herding breed is also a perfect family pet when properly trained and socialized. Australian Cattle Dogs do not leave the side of their owners, no matter where they go. They have high exercise requirements and do not like to live in compact homes.
Get ready for frequent grooming and daily brushing because ACDs have a double coat that moderately sheds. They are perfect for shepherds and farmers in cold climates due to their double coat.
5. Beauceron
The Beauceron is also known as the red stocking dog due to its red feet. They are energetic, obedient, and gentle dogs that were originally bred to be herders in France. Beauceron has served as a livestock guardian, a military dog in World War I, and a family pet.
This working dog breed directs the flock from a wide distance instead of staying close to them. Their loyal and loving nature makes them perfect family dogs, as long as you meet their daily exercise requirements.
Honestly, they are perfect watchdogs, soldiers, and best farm dogs. We can say they are a jack of all trades with proper socialization and obedience training. Beauceron loves to hike, swim, fetch balls, and run throughout the home.
6. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Bergamasco is a lovable, intelligent, and protective breed. Don’t be surprised to see their long double coat or drop the idea of adopting this pup because they are actually low-maintenance. As their name says, “sheepdog”, Bergamasco was used for herding sheep back in their early days.
Honestly, they just blend in with the flock with their flat and flat-mat-like fur. These gentle giants have strong herding and protective instincts.
They do not require grooming and bathing every other week because their fur takes time to dry. But make sure to brush them daily to prevent tangles. Bergamasco is an excellent companion for families with proper training. They are easy to train but may be wary of strangers.
7. Bouvier des Flandres
Bouvier des Flanders translates as cowherd of Flanders, and they used to herd cattle. They are highly affectionate, loyal, and strong-willed guard dogs.
Flanders are quick learners and multitaskers. They are perfect for guarding property, managing livestock, and playing sports. With a solid, muscular frame and a thick, weather-resistant coat, the Bouvier is built for demanding outdoor work.
Yes, they have a waterproof double curly coat that sheds moderately and requires daily brushing. Many people call them the Vullibaard breed, which means “dirty breed” because they get dirty very easily. So get ready to take care if you are planning to get one.
Highly trainable and deeply loyal, this breed thrives under firm, consistent leadership. When properly socialized and given a job to do, the Bouvier des Flandres becomes a devoted protector and an efficient worker, mastering both herding and guard duties with quiet strength and unwavering dedication.
Conclusion
There’s no denying that herding and guarding dogs can significantly lighten our workload. Their strength, intelligence, and instincts make them invaluable partners. However, true excellence lies not just in their ability to perform demanding tasks but in how well they are trained, guided, and socialized.
The above-mentioned 7 dog breeds are great for guarding your property and livestock, but everyone has their own needs. One is courageous with heavy grooming needs, while others are smart with low maintenance. So choose the dog that meets your work requirements and lifestyle.
