Shepherd Breeds: 11 Different Types of Shepherd Dogs

Although there isn’t a concrete definition for the term “shepherd breed” as it relates to dogs, most authorities apply the term to various herding and livestock-guarding breeds. There are about 30 different types of shepherd dogs in total, giving ranchers and farmers plenty of options to choose from.

Also called sheepdogs or cattle dogs, most shepherd breeds exhibit a few common traits, including high energy levels, a strong work ethic, and intelligence.

And while these traits serve working shepherds well, they also make them great pets for owners willing to keep them busy and provide them with plenty of exercise.

We’ll talk about 11 of the most notable types of shepherds below. We’ll discuss their physical traits, personality and any special challenges they present. This way, you should be able to select the best shepherd dog for your family.

Shepherd Breeds

Ranking	Name	Height	Weight	Life span	Breed size	Temperament	Origin
1	Australian Shepherd	18-23 inches	35-70 lbs	13-15 years	large	Intelligent, Good-natured, Affectionate, Active, Protective	Western United States
2	Anatolian Shepherd	20-27 inches	80-150 lbs	10-13 years	large	Steady, Intelligent, Bold, Independent	Turkey
3	Belgian Sheepdog	22-26 inches	45-65 lbs	10-14 years	large	highly intelligent, alert and sensitive	Belgium
4	Bearded Collie	20-22 inches	35-60 lbs	14-15 years	medium	intelligent, Self-confidence, Lively, Alert	Scotland
5	Bohemian Shepherd	15-18.5 inches	15-35 lbs	9-13 years	medium	Stable, Intelligent, Active, Trainable, Courageous	Czechia
6	Collie	22-26 inches	50-75 lbs	10-14 years	large	intelligent, Friendly, Loyal, Active	Scotland, United Kingdom
7	East-European Shepherds	25-29 inches	65-90 lbs	10-14 years	large	Versatile, hardy, loyal, protective	Russia, Belarus
8	Icelandic Sheepdog	16.5-18 inches	19-30 lbs	12-15 years	medium	Cheerful, Hardy, Inquisitive, Energetic	Iceland
9	Pembroke Welsh Corgi	10-12 inches	25-30 lbs	12-15 years	small	Outgoing, Tenacious, Friendly, Bold	Pembrokeshire
10	Dutch Shepherd	18-26 inches	50-70 lbs	8-15 year	large	Reliable, Affectionate, Alert, Obedient	Netherlands
11	German Shepherd	22-26 inches	50-90 lbs	9-13 years	large	Intelligent, Curious, Stubborn, Alert	Germany

These amazing shepherd breeds that we are going to describe here are known for everything that you would love to keep as pets. They are the most athletic breeds, with amazing agility, sturdy built, and adorn a cute look that also makes them loveable as a pet. Scroll down to read among the most famous shepherd breeds found globally.

1. Australian Shepherd

Weight:	35 to 70 pounds
Height:	18 to 23 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Agility training, tracking, obedience

Australian Shepherds are the descendants of Basque Shepherd Dogs, who arrived in the “Land Down Under” during the early 1800s. This shepherd breed developed over time, as breeders began trying to emphasize the traits that served the dogs best in their new home.

Presently, Australian Shepherds are some of the most popular herding breeds in the world, and it is easy to see why. They are very intelligent, athletic and energetic, and they not only excel at actual herding work but agility trials, Frisbee-based sports, and obedience competitions too. And because they typically bond strongly with their owners, they make good companion animals too.

The coat of these animals become darker as they age, but they remain very active until the end. No doubt, they are amazing dogs that make all the other shepherd dog breeds proud.

Australian Shepherds have thick, weather-resistant coats that are often quite beautiful. They vary in color, but most individuals are covered in patches of red, black, white, blue and grey. Their coats are quite long and thick, so they require frequent brushing and regular baths to look and feel their best.

SEE ALSO: Shiloh Shepherd: Are Shilohs the Ultimate Family Dog?

2. Anatolian Shepherd

Weight:	80 to 150 pounds
Height:	20 to 27 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding, hiking

Originating in rural Turkey 6,000 years ago, Anatolian Shepherds are smart and capable herding dogs, who’ve long proved valuable to the farmers and ranchers who depend on them.

Although historically tasked with a variety of duties, Anatolian Shepherds were primarily used to guard livestock. In fact, unlike many other livestock guarding breeds, who were only expected to fend off coyotes, foxes, and other small predators, Anatolian Shepherds were required to defend their flocks from large predators, such as wolves and bears.

Given their impressive size, Anatolian Shepherds proved highly effective at the task. In fact, they’re still used to guard livestock, as well as people and property in the modern world. But despite their large size and formidable appearance, Anatolian Shepherds are typically quite gentle with their families, and they can make good pets for some owners.

SEE ALSO: Kangal Dog: Everything You Need to Know About This Fine Protector

Unlike most other herding breeds, who are clad in long, unruly fur, Anatolian Shepherds have relatively short hair when compared with other shepherd breeds. Most individuals are off-white to pale yellow or brown in color, and they typically bear black markings around the muzzle and face.

Anatolian Shepherds mature slowly, which means they’ll typically act like puppies until about 4 years of age. Nevertheless, you’ll want to begin basic obedience training at a young age, to ensure that your new pet is safe around strangers and well-behaved in the home.

3. Belgian Sheepdog

Weight:	45 to 65 pounds
Height:	22 to 26 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding, search and rescue, obedience

Belgian Sheepdogs are very striking-looking canines, who bear long and luxurious black coats. Originally developed in Belgium during the early 19^th century, these sheepdogs are extremely intelligent, they’re relatively agile, and they have a work ethic that few other breeds can match.

Four different herding breeds were developed in Belgium, but the Belgian Shepherd Dog is likely the most prized by ranchers and farmers who need a capable dog to help tend their flocks.

They are primarily used to herd sheep (and other livestock), but they are also expected to frighten away medium-sized predators. Their long coats help greatly in this respect, as it makes this shepherd breed look larger than it actually is.

Belgian Sheepdogs can make good pets for those who can provide plenty of space for these high-energy dogs, but they are rarely calm enough for apartment life. Most Belgian Sheepdogs are good with children, but they may chase or torment smaller pets.

4. Bearded Collie

Weight:	35 to 60 pounds
Height:	20 to 22 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding, agility, tracking

Long-haired and lovable, the Bearded Collie is one of the most popular herding breeds in the world. And while they’re capable working dogs, who excel at herding livestock, they are primarily kept as pets in the modern world.

Originally developed in Great Britain, the Bearded Collie is one of the oldest breeds of shepherds. They have long been praised for their intelligence, work ethic, and alert personality.

A lively and energetic shepherd breed, they love working for a flock and keeping their charges together and safe from predators.

Their long coats help to protect them from inclement weather, but it is also quite attractive. They do, however, shed heavily and require frequent grooming to promote proper skin and coat health. Bearded Collies come in a number of color combinations, including fawn, tri-color, black, brown and white.

Bearded Collies can make good pets, but you’ll need to be sure to provide them with basic obedience training to ensure they are well-behaved around strangers. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure they get plenty of exercises to prevent the development of destructive behaviors.

5. Bohemian Shepherd

Weight:	15 to 35 pounds
Height:	15 to 18.5 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding, search and rescue

The history of the Bohemian Shepherd is cloaked in a bit of mystery, but we know that they were bred in France sometime during the 19^th century. And although they are relatively small by shepherd standards, Bohemian Shepherds are very skilled herding dogs, who’ve long proven their value to farmers and ranchers.

Bohemian Shepherds are noted for being sensitive and intelligent animals, and because they have a strong desire to please their owners, they are usually quite obedient and well-behaved, once provided with proper training. They are very energetic dogs, however, who are willing to work long hours while tending their charges.

This can make them somewhat challenging for pet owners, as they require a great deal of exercise to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive. If you want a Bohemian Shepherd, you’ll need to be willing to head to the park for about an hour of vigorous play every day.

There are two types of Bohemian Shepherds, rough-faced and smooth-faced. Those in the former group have a frilly ring of fur around their faces, while those in the latter group lack such hair. Both varieties are lean and agile, which serves them well when tending sheep and other livestock.

Most Bohemian Shepherds are black with brown markings on the face, legs, and belly.

6. Collie

Weight:	50 to 75 pounds
Height:	22 to 26 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding, tracking, obedience training

Collies are Scottish herding dogs, who have a long and interesting history. Although first mentioned in Thomas Beswick’s 19^th-century book The History of Quadrupeds, Collies didn’t become widely known until the mid-20^th century when the world met Lassie, the four-footed star of books, movies, and television shows. In fact, Lassie is arguably the most famous dog of all time.

Collies are medium-sized, herding dogs excel in a variety of roles. They not only herd and guard livestock, but they are also skilled trackers, who can follow a trail for miles. They are remarkably intelligent, well-natured and gentle dogs, who also make great pets. They do, however, require copious amounts of exercise, like most other shepherd breeds.

There are two different types of collie. Rough-coated Collies have long, silky hair, while Smooth-Coated Collies have short, thick hair. They both come in a variety of colors and combinations, including tri-color, blue merle, white and sable. Both types will require frequent baths, brushing and grooming, although the smooth-coated variety is slightly easier to care for.

7. East-European Shepherds

Weight:	65 to 90 pounds
Height:	25 to 29 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding, running, obedience, guarding

While they may appear very similar to German Shepherds, East-European Shepherds are, in fact, an entirely different breed. They descend from their more well-known German counterparts, but, thanks to the work of the breeders who developed these dogs, they’re larger and better-suited for cold temperatures.

And while they descend from herding dogs, East-European Shepherds were primarily developed to work with police officers and military personnel, rather than tending sheep or cattle.

Like German Shepherds, East-European Shepherds are intelligent dogs, with a strong work ethic. They are very easy to train, and they typically enjoy pleasing their owner or handler. Most are remarkably loyal and courageous, which helps them to not only excel in military and police contexts but protection work too.

East-European Shepherds can make good pets, but few owners are willing to provide them with as much exercise and stimulation as they need. These dogs require a daily “job” to remain healthy and happy, and they are not a good choice for those who live in apartments.

SEE ALSO: All About the Misunderstood Black German Shepherd

8. Icelandic Sheepdog

Weight:	19 to 30 pounds
Height:	16.5 to 18 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Agility, obedience training

Also known as the “Dog of the Vikings,” Icelandic Sheepdogs are thought to have been originally developed by the marauding mariners in the late 9^th or early 10^th century. Interestingly, they’re the only breed in the world to hail from Iceland.

Icelandic Sheepdogs are smart and effective herding dogs, whose bravery belies their small size. Despite weighing less than many of the sheep they were expected to protect (as well as the predators who’d threaten them), Icelandic Sheepdogs won’t hesitate to put their body between their flock and danger.

And although these spunky dogs were developed to perform a variety of herding and flock-guarding tasks, they have very endearing personalities, which makes them popular among pet owners too. Most will become obedient with proper training, although they can be quite vocal, which makes them unsuitable for apartment life.

They’re also extraordinarily energetic, so you’ll have to be sure to provide your Icelandic Sheepdog with plenty of time to run, jump and play each day. You’ll also need to be willing to bathe, brush and groom their long coats regularly, as well as deal with the copious amounts of hair they shed twice a year.

9. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Weight:	25 to 30 pounds
Height:	10 to 12 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding, retrieving, going on walks

Small, smart and spunky, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the most popular breeds of shepherds kept by people in the modern world. And while a handful of farmers and ranchers continue to employ them as working dogs, the vast majority of Pembroke Welsh Corgis are kept as companion pets – a task at which they also excel.

Small to medium-sized dogs, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are packed with personality, and they usually make quick friends with everyone they meet. They even get along with other pets in most cases, which is a relatively rare trait among breeds of shepherds. They’re typically well-behaved (if a bit mischievous), and they’re relatively easy to train.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s small stature is not an accident – they were specifically designed to be short enough to avoid the kicking feet of bulls and cows, who they were tasked with herding. That’s right – these tiny dogs were expected to corral and control animals weighing 1,000 pounds or more. Their agility, speed, and bravery also helped make them well-suited for such work.

Corgis are certainly one of the best-suited shepherd breeds for families seeking a pet. Just be sure that you are prepared to provide them with plenty of exercise, and you’ll likely find that they make great family companions.

10. Dutch Shepherd

Weight:	50 to 70 pounds
Height:	18 to 26 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Agility, obedience, runs

A close cousin of both the German and Belgian Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd is a skilled herding dog that makes a great family pet. They aren’t seen very often in the United States, but they’re quite popular among European farmers and families.

Dutch Shepherds are affectionate animals, who have a beautiful and unique coat pattern, that often bears stripe-like markings. They have medium-length hair, which requires regular brushing and grooming, but their coats don’t require as much maintenance as some of the other breeds of shepherds.

Agile, strong and fleet of foot, these dogs are very skilled at most herding tasks, and they’re big and brave enough to deter most would-be predators. They’re even used as protection dogs in some cases. Like most other shepherd breeds, they’re loyal dogs, and they tend to be very observant – they’re quite skilled at reading their owner’s body language.

They are very well-suited for agility trials and obedience competitions, where their high energy levels and intelligence make them formidable competitors. Just be sure that you are prepared to provide these dogs with plenty of exercise, if you want to keep one as a pet.

11. German Shepherd

Weight:	50 to 90 pounds
Height:	22 to 26 inches (at the shoulders)
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Obedience, guarding, tracking

The German Shepherd is the second-most-popular dog breed in the United States. Only Labrador Retrievers are more popular than German Shepherds. They make a loyal, friendly family pet as long as they get enough exercise and obedience training.

Also known as the GSD for short, the German Shepherd was originally bred to be the best herding dog in Germany. As technology reduced the need for herding dogs, the GSD was repurposed as a military and police dog.

The German Shepherd is intelligent and devoted, making them easy to train. Since they were bred to work all day, they have a lot of energy and require plenty of exercise. They make an ideal partner anything from hiking to agility courses.

German Shepherds are great with kids, although they can mistake roughhousing for fighting and will step in to “protect” their child. They may also have too much energy for small children. However, a GSD should be happy playing endless games of fetch in the backyard with your older kids.

12. Shetland Sheepdog

Weight:	14 to 27 Pounds
Height:	13 to 16 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Daily walks are good, though they excel with playing fetch.

The Shetland Sheepdog, sometimes known as a Sheltie, is a shepherd breed of dogs that originated in the UK.

They were specifically bred to herd ponies, sheep, and domestic birds like ducks and chickens. Since food was scarce in the part where they originated, they were bred in a manner requiring less food.

They are small and can live for around fourteen years. These dogs have long, double coats but do not need much grooming. This breed’s sweet and loyal temperament makes them excellent companions, protective, friendly, and perfect for families with children.

They get along quite well with other dogs as well.

They are diligent watchdogs and will defend your home and property. Since they are alert, they will bark at any stranger. Moreover, this is a clever dog breed, and it is simple to train your Sheltie.

13. New Zealand Huntaway

Weight:	55 to 88 Pounds
Height:	20 to 24 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Herding

The Huntaway is a huge, muscular dog breed that originated in New Zealand and was originally bred to work on farms for works like guarding cattle. 

This dog breed’s uniqueness lies in how they guide their flocks. Unlike other dog breeds, Huntaways use their bark to drive sheep. So, they have such booming and deep barks.

It is still uncommon to find these dog breeds outside their homeland. 

They were bred specifically, keeping in mind the country’s peculiar farming environment. They are obedient and adorable. Plus, they are pretty obedient and love to communicate and play with their owners.

14. Old English Sheepdog

Weight:	70 to 100 Pounds
Height:	22 to 24 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	A large, secure garden or walks in areas with lots of open space

Like Collie and Bulldogs, the old English sheepdog originated in the British Isles sometime in the late eighteen century. Historically speaking, these dogs used to help move livestock to the nearby market.

These dogs are way too cheerful and bubbly. They love to communicate and interact with their masters and love to go outdoors as well. 

They are especially playful with children, which marks them as a perfect pet for families. They also love to spend quality time with their owners’ families – without compromising their professional responsibilities.

15. Belgian Tervuren

Weight:	55 to 66 Pounds
Height:	24–26 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Agility training, herding trials, and dog sports

The Belgian Tervuren is one of the few prime shepherds that originated in Belgium. 

This dog breed was originally raised to guard the livestock of farmers. Apart from being fearless and obedient, these dogs are confident and dedicated and can work hard. So, they are often deployed on farms and are utilized as herd dogs.

These agile dogs have gradually become quite popular in common households as well. However, you must ensure they get plenty of physical and mental stimulation to keep them in their best health.

16. Caucasian Shepherd

Weight:	More then 110 pounds
Height:	23 to 30 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Daily walks

Finding the ancestry of the Caucasian shepherd is tricky, as various countries have claimed it as their own. What we know is that they originated somewhere in eastern Europe.

These dogs are not just any normal sheepdog. These canines are bulky and quite heavy. They can grow up to around 170 pounds. Hence, they were best suited as guard dogs. 

In the past, they not only defended sheep from animal attacks and thieves but were also used for herding. They are fearless and have an acute sense of sight and hearing, making them a worthy companion if you own livestock or a farm.

Despite their sturdy build, these dogs are extremely fond of their families, which makes them perfect family pets. They protect their masters’ children and will save everybody, including other pets, from any impending danger.

17. Beauceron

Weight:	71 to 99 Pounds
Height:	Upto 27.5 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	2-3 hours of vigorous physical activity each day, in addition to training and walks

The Beauceron is one of the most popular shepherd dog breeds that originated in France. These are strong and bulky and can weigh up to 100 pounds. 

Beaucerons were not meant to be sheep-herding dogs, but their agility and extreme adaptability enabled them to earn that position. Moreover, they proved themselves to be capable of carrying out several tasks in the field.

In today’s world, due to their athletic prowess, fearlessness, and alert nature, this dog breed is widely used in important canine roles. This includes the police and the defense sectors. 

Despite their size and work, these dogs are quite friendly at home. They are, in fact, gentle with their family members and will protect them at any cost.

18. Briard

Weight:	60 to 90 Pounds
Height:	23 to 27 Inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Walking/Jogging

The briard is one of the large and fluffy breeds of shepherds that were initially bred in the northern region of France. They have been used in pastures, and they can both herd and protect. 

Briards are well-known for their devotion to their owners. Although bulky, these dogs are quite athletic and can run a lot on fields. They are perfect for guarding livestock and will fight any potential danger.  

Otherwise, they are a jolly dog breed and love communicating and playing with their family members. They are obedient and highly protective of their owners and their families.

19. Australian Kelpie

Weight:	31 to 46 Pounds
Height:	18 to 20 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Chasing and Fetching

Australian kelpie is one of the top-tier dog breeds that is essentially used to herd sheep. They are quite energetic and can work tirelessly in fields. 

These dogs originated in the rural regions of Australia with a lot of arable lands. Even today, the natives of Australia use these dogs on sheep farms.

These dogs can run a lot, and they demand vigorous exercise. Restricting Kelpies inside a house is probably the worst decision. So, if you lack the space and lead a sedentary lifestyle, this might not be your best option.

20. Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Weight:	40 to 50 Pounds
Height:	18 to 20 inches
Ideal Activities for the Breed:	Regular exercise, Brisk walks

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, famous for its shaggy hair, is a herding dog, which is believed to be a cross breed between local dogs and Hunnic dogs. 

They were raised for both, work and play. Earlier, these dogs were employed to herd sheep and protect their flock from animal attacks. The Lowland, despite its modest size, is a sturdy and resilient dog that, even today, can easily work on the field with much larger cattle.

It’s difficult to resist these dogs, mainly due to their happy disposition and kind soul. They may still have some protective instincts towards their family and can sometimes become hostile towards strangers, but they are typically pleasant and gentle dogs.

Honorable Mentions of Some Shepherd Breeds

We don’t have enough room to talk about every shepherd breed, but if you’re interested, here’s a list of dogs that the AKC classifies as herding dogs that we haven’t mentioned yet. Some of these breeds are rare in the United States, but they shouldn’t be overlooked. Every shepherd dog is special in their own right.

• Australian Cattle Dog
• Beauceron
• Belgian Malinois
• Belgian Tervuren
• Bergamasco Sheepdog
• Berger Picard
• Border Collie
• Bouvier des Flandres
• Briard
• Canaan Dog
• Cardigan Welsh Corgi
• Entlebucher Mountain Dog
• Finnish Laphund
• Miniature American Shepherd
• Norwegian Buhund
• Old English Sheepdog
• Polish Lowland Sheepdog
• Puli
• Pumi
• Pyrenean Shepherd
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Spanish Water Dog
• Swedish Vallhund

What Is The Best Shepherd Breed?

Your purpose for getting a dog will determine which shepherd dog is right for you. For example, the Caucasian or Anatolian might be your top choice if you’re looking for a more laid-back guardian breed. 

On the other hand, a border collie or Belgian shepherd might be your top choice if you’re seeking a high-energy herder around the farm. For people who want a house dog with whom they can walk and play, a German shepherd or a corgi may be the ideal choice.

FAQs

These Dogs Aren’t for Everyone: Be Sure a Shepherd Breed Is Right for Your Home

Although they are extremely smart and obedient if trained well, shepherd breeds can also present a few challenges – especially to those who wish to keep them as family pets.

For example, shepherd breeds all have very high energy levels, so they must be provided with the opportunity to exercise every day. If deprived of such opportunities, these dogs can develop a variety of problematic behaviors, including destructive chewing, obsessive licking behaviors, and nuisance barking.

In fact, shepherds are usually pretty vocal dogs, so they aren’t a great choice for owners who value peace and quiet, or for those who live in apartments. Typically, shepherd breeds are best-suited for families that have large, fenced yards in which the dogs can burn off plenty of energy and bark to their heart’s content.

Additionally, it is often helpful to give breeds of shepherds a job to keep them occupied. This may simply be guarding your backyard from squirrels and passing cars, or you may want to participate in agility or tracking competitions with your pet. They rarely care what their job is – they just care that they have a job they’re expected to do.

Want to see some more types of shepherd dogs in action? Check out the video from ViralBe below!

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