Herding dog breeds

Herding dog breeds are among the most ancient on the planet. Since time immemorial, humans have domesticated wild sheep, goats, and cattle. It was then that these four-legged friends became constant companions for shepherds. We present a ranking of the most popular herding dog breeds, complete with names and photos.

Collie (Scottish Shepherd)

With its luxurious coat and high intelligence, the Scottish Collie looks more beautiful in person than in photos. Initially, it herded flocks of sheep and guarded peasant children, but then, attracting the attention of royalty, it became a luxury pet. Today, the collie is ready to fulfill any of these roles and is not averse to working as a police sniffer. The Scottish Collie's popularity peaked after the release of the film "Lassie." There are more than 10 Scottish Collie breeding kennels in Russia. The price of a puppy ranges from 20,000 to 50,000 rubles.

Collie

Historical fact: a collie once saved a distillery from fire and immortalized its name on the label of a Scotch whisky.

Border Collie

One of the best herding dogs and the most intelligent breed in the world, the Border Collie is a dog owner's dream, capable of learning and remembering over 25 commands on the fly. It works as a herder independently, without human intervention. It can distinguish individual sheep by scent and is very good with them. Their appearance distinguishes them from standard collies. Border Collies are not particularly beautiful, resembling the typical black-and-white dogs found in any village. The uniqueness of their work can be seen in various shows, including the film "Babe." Border Collie puppies in Russian nurseries range from 25,000 to 50,000 rubles.

A border collie herding sheep

Heeler (Australian Cattle Dog)

The breed is the result of long-term crossing of various dogs, including dingoThus, an intelligent yet stubborn Heeler was born, capable of handling the most challenging tasks. In emergency situations, the dog is capable of making independent decisions. The "Australian Shepherd" has a highly developed pack instinct. This small, sturdy dog ​​works harmoniously in the company of its own kind. Take a look at what it looks like. Australian Cattle Dog in the photo.

Heelers are distinguished by their unusual spotted, speckled coat. The breeding kennel is located in the Moscow region; a puppy with RKF papers costs 40,000-60,000 rubles.

Heeler herds sheep

Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dog)

Large and powerful, these dogs helped Asians herd flocks of sheep in the mountains and guard their homes. The Alabai is a serious dog with a spirited nature. It can be affectionate within the family and ferocious with uninvited guests. They were once used in dog fights, so many puppies have warrior qualities and victorious traits imprinted in their blood. The Alabai is a sought-after breed for guarding properties and country houses. There are over two hundred breeding kennels, including some abroad. The price of a puppy in Russia starts at 30,000 rubles, and a pet-class dog starts at 10,000 rubles. They are often seen in films about the war in Afghanistan, as well as in Asian films. Films featuring Alabai include "Okhlamon," "Boatswain," and "Makar the Pathfinder."

Alabai and sheep

Bernese Mountain Dog (Bernese Shepherd)

This gorgeous "shepherdess" hails from Switzerland. Just take one look at the photo. shepherd dog Bernese Mountain Dog breedTo fall in love with her forever. She earned the title of "the most beautiful dog in the world" for her aristocratic appearance and elegant exterior. Local farmers used these dogs for herding and guarding ungulates. The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its strength, endurance, calm nature, and obedience. In Russia, breeders offer show-quality puppies for sale at prices ranging from 50,000 to 70,000 rubles. Bernese Mountain Dogs love to appear in music videos and films, including "Happy Together," "Hello, Fools," "Equilibrium," "Everybody's Crazy About Mary," "Shaggy Special Forces," "Holy Cause," and "The Return of Mukhtar."

A Bernese Mountain Dog chases a sheep.

Welsh Corgi

Outwardly they look like funny and cute dogs and it is hard to imagine that Welsh Corgi Welsh Corgis are shepherds and herders. They are the smallest representatives of this class. They are known for their docile nature, quietness, intelligence, hardiness, and efficiency. Despite their small stature, they easily pass under sheep and nip their legs, herding them into a circle. In addition to their role as shepherds, they are good companions for people. Welsh Corgis have a cheerful disposition and are active in play. This playful pet can be purchased for between 25,000 and 50,000 rubles, depending on their pedigree. Welsh Corgis were featured in the films "A Dog's Purpose" and "Lost Puppy."

Welsh Corgi running

Bullets

A Hungarian by origin, the Puli boasts an incredible "hairstyle." Its long, matted coat is known as a "mop" for its disheveled appearance. It excels at shepherding, guarding the house, and playing with children. The Hungarian Shepherdess is intelligent but slightly stubborn. It has an excellent sense of smell and keen eyesight, despite its eyes being hidden beneath its bangs. A few kennels and breeders in Russia offer Puli for sale at prices ranging from 40,000 to 50,000 rubles.

The bullets are running

Moody

Another Hungarian herding dog breed with some German ancestry, the Mudi is distinguished by its intense activity and excellent memory. It is used as a herding dog, guard dog, and hunter, excelling in all tasks. Human interaction is a top priority for this breed. It is very affectionate, friendly, and outgoing. It is always ready to herd anyone, including pets and children. You can buy a Mudi puppy from the Samolla kennel in St. Petersburg. A show-class puppy costs 50,000 rubles; a pet-class puppy costs half that.

Moody

South Russian Shepherd Dog

A white, shaggy giant with a kind soul. The breed is the result of crossing German Shepherds and Borzois. The South Russian Shepherd is a courageous shepherd, a wise guard, and a skilled guard dog. Despite its "shaggy lout" appearance, it is very fast and agile, affectionate, and intelligent. When shepherding, it blends in with the flock of sheep, as their coats are difficult to distinguish by their composition and color. South Russian Shepherd puppies range from 15,000 to 30,000 rubles. Lower prices do not guarantee purebred status.

South Russian Shepherd Dog

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

A descendant of mountain wolves, this breed excels at shepherding. It is often chosen to guard important sites, including state borders. It is hardy, intelligent, courageous, and determined. Many consider Caucasian Shepherds to be vicious, as they were once involved in dog fights. However, with proper upbringing and training, they grow into kind and obedient pets, family protectors, and home guardians. Caucasian Shepherds may be allowed onto property, but will never be allowed out without the owner's command, so there's no need to seek close contact with them. The price of a puppy ranges from 15,000 to 45,000 rubles, depending on the pedigree. Films featuring Caucasian Shepherds include "Loma the Forgotten Friend," "The Pig Herd and the Shepherd," and "When the Cossacks Cry."

A Caucasian Shepherd dog herding sheep

Bobtail

The shaggy English Bobtail is a friend to sheep and a terror to wolves. He has emerged victorious from many a fight with the gray predator. In everyday life, Bobtails are not aggressive and have become beloved pets in many families. Their herding duties are a thing of the past, but they have not lost their instincts and are ready to watch over all family members around the clock. These "shaggy nannies" are especially affectionate towards children and would never harm them. A rare breed, the price of a puppy can reach up to $3,000. Kennels are located in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Smolensk, and Yekaterinburg. The Bobtail is a movie star, often featured in pet food commercials, and appeared in the films "The Taming of the Shrew" and "Cats & Dogs."

Bobtail

In fact, there are many more herding dog varieties worldwide. Almost every corner of the globe where herding is necessary has developed its own breed. France, Germany, Portugal, Romania, Czechoslovakia, Italy, Belgium, and Ireland all boast their own "shepherds." Australia and Scotland alone boast about five varieties. They all share one characteristic: they are fiercely loyal to their people.

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