Think you’re full of energy? Meet herding dog breeds! These intelligent and energetic pups were originally bred to herd livestock like sheep and cattle across vast distances for hours.
But don’t let their charm fool you. Without enough exercise, mental stimulation, and proper training, they may direct that energy toward chewing your furniture, shoes, or even your walls.
If you lead an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor adventures, dog sports, or agility training, and can laugh off the occasional chewed slipper, then a herding dog might be your ideal companion.
In this blog, you’ll learn all about high-energy herding dog breeds, what makes them special, how to meet their needs, and tips to decide if one is the right fit for your home and lifestyle.
Most High-Energy Herding Dog Breeds
1. Samoyed
Samoyed is a medium-sized white fluffy dog breed that is named after the Samoyedic people of Siberia. According to Purina, these pups are also called Sammies and are very versatile dogs. Astonishingly, they were used to warm their owner by sleeping on them.
Moreover, they are friendly dogs who are perfect for herding. They use their body to influence the movement of livestock. Further, they don’t use strong eye contact to control cattle; instead, they remain close and move around the herd.
Samoyeds require at least a couple of hours of daily exercise, which should include long walks, hikes, and active play in a secure yard. In addition to physical activity, they also need mental stimulation through training sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive games to keep their minds engaged.
Without adequate physical and mental outlets, Samoyeds may become bored and frustrated, leading to destructive behavior, excessive barking, or other unwanted habits.
2. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog or Sheltie is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated from Scotland. As intended, this dog was used to herd sheep, and it has successfully retained its work ethic and sharp abilities. This dog is also known for its long double coat in different colors.
Furthermore, they are an energetic dog breed, so only recommended for an active person. They need a lot of physical exercise to stay active and happy. Daily walks can be combined with other activities like play sessions, agility training, and obedience training.
Moreover, they are very vocal as they were also kept as guard dogs. Their barking is normal, but with training, you can control this habit.
3. Bouvier des Flandres
This is a large and beautiful dog that has a shaggy and rough coat of fur. Bouvier des Flandres is a versatile working breed dog that was originally bred for general farm work. Moreover, they have a muscular build and weigh between 70 to 100 pounds.
This herding breed is very athletic and has helped farmers in herding livestock, pulling carts, and guarding. Their intelligence and hard work made them ideal farm dogs.
As they have boundless energy, they need regular exercise. A couple of 20-minute daily walks, along with other stimulation and games, keep them healthy. Moreover, they are quick learner and easy to train.
4. German Shepherd
German Shepherd is a highly energetic breed that is extremely loyal and intelligent. PetMD states that these high-energy dogs are very popular in America. Moreover over they have inherited a desire to work, therefore you may see them working as search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, or service dogs.
As this is a high-energy dog breed, they need daily exercise so that they can live healthily. You have to spend at least two hours on their physical workout. But this duration can vary depending on the age, type, and lifestyle of the canine. Along with physical activity, shepherds also need socialization.
5. Collies
Collie is a lovely, loyal, and intelligent dog breed that is ideal family pet. But how did these dogs become so popular? Who is behind their popularity? English Heritage revealed that Collies were unknown as pets until the 1860s, and then Queen Victoria acquired them. Things changed, and these herding dog breeds became one of the most popular dogs.
Collies are highly intelligent, alert, and loving animals. They excel as a working dog breed but also family-oriented breed. But they are extremely energetic, so perfect for those who are the same. These dogs are not for apartment life. In fact, they flourish in farms, ranches, and other open spaces.
This cute pup knows how to move around animals to keep them together. Instead of barking, they use their body and movements to tell animals where to go.
6. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois is a high-energy herding dog breeds that possess a high level of intelligence. These medium-sized dogs originated from Belgium, and they excel in roles that are given to them. Due to their intelligence, they have a high level of focus, speed, and power to learn new things.
These active dogs are a top pick as guard dogs. AKC states that they are very valuable for the military. They have speed, high focus, loyalty, and a work ethic. But they do need exercise and training. They have to do work, and without work and exercise, they might show disruptive behavior.
They are also good at herding because it is present in their instinct. It uses speed, agility, and sharp focus to control animals.
7. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dog is a herding breed that was developed in the 19th century. According to Britannica, the Australian Cattle Dog was bred to take care of cattle in the Outback of Australia.
This medium-sized dog weighs from 35 to 50 pounds, and its height is 17 to 20 inches. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the oldest living dog, which lived for 29 years, was an Australian Cattle Dog.
As they were developed for herding cattle, they are very alert, watchful, and reliable. Also known as “heelers,” they have a unique way of moving cattle; they nip at their feet. As they are high-energy dogs, they are not good for lazy owners. This dog is not a couch potato; it needs work and activity to keep itself happy.
8. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd, belonging to the USA, is one of the most energetic dog breeds, equally known for its intelligent mind, colorful coats, and loving personality. It was bred in the United States. This is no nonsense dog who loves to use its mind and energy for some good.
This good-natured dog possesses a hunting instinct, and due to this exceptional quality, it was favored by American ranchers. Aussies control the flock with nip and bite technique, and a loud bark saying that I am your charge.
Moreover, they have an energistic temperament; they are loyal and alert. This dog has a lot of energy, and it needs a lot of exercise to burn it.
9. Dalmatian
According to the Dalmatian Club of America, this dog ran alongside the fire carriages in the 1700s, a true fire dog. This ancient breed acted as a siren by barking at people so that they would get out of the way of carriages. Dalmatian has an iconic spotted coat, which is very popular in the world.
These high-energy dogs have served different purposes. They are so energetic that they can run for long hours without getting tired. Pet owners should give them proper training to walk nicely on the lead. And due to high energies, they are used for herding, ratting, and hunting.
Conclusion
Most herding dog breeds are like the overachievers of the dog world. They are loyal, smart, fast, and always ready for action. They need exercise, training, and a purpose, or else your sofa might become their next chew toy!
If you’re looking for a furry friend who’ll challenge you to keep up, a herding dog could be your four-legged soulmate. But with great energy comes great responsibility and maybe the occasional chewed slipper.
