Herding dogs
Bred to move livestock — and wired to move something. The brightest, most trainable dogs in the deck, with the energy to match. Give them a job, or they'll invent one.
Traits of the group
Whip-smartAmong the most trainable dogs alive
High energyNeed a real job, not just a walk
Herding instinctMay nip heels and chase bikes or cars
SensitiveRead your mood; respond to reward, not force
Breeds in this group
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
UncommonBig dog, short legs, royal résumé.
Border Collie
UncommonThe smartest breed alive.
German Shepherd
UncommonThe default working partner.
Australian Shepherd
UncommonMerle coat, tireless engine.
Australian Cattle Dog
UncommonThe tough, tireless Blue Heeler.
Shetland Sheepdog
UncommonA pint-sized, sensitive herder.