Sheepdogs are not only excellent working dogs, but also wonderful family members. These true all-rounders enrich the lives of their families in a very special way! If you are looking for a faithful and intelligent companion for your family, you have come to the right place, because we show you the most important 23 sheepdog breeds in portrait.
German shepherd dog
The German Shepherd is valued for its intelligence, loyalty and versatility. Originally bred for herding sheep and as a working dog, today it is also very popular as a family dog.
German Shepherds are not only docile and easy to train, but also strong and persistent. This breed is known for its protective instinct and attachment to the family, which makes them ideal guard dogs. However, owners should make sure that the German Shepherd is sufficiently occupied and exercised, as it likes to be challenged and has a strong urge to move. With a German Shepherd at your side, you have a loyal and reliable companion for life.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Groenendael
The Groenendael, one of the four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd, is an impressive quadruped characterized by its long, black coat and elegant appearance. This breed is known for its high intelligence, its ability to learn and its attachment to the family.
As an active and hard-working dog, the Groenendael is particularly well suited for various dog sports and tasks such as agility or Schutzhund work. It is important to provide him with enough mental and physical activity to keep him happy and balanced.
Anyone considering a Groenendael as a family dog should be prepared to give it the necessary time, attention and guidance. With good training and loving leadership, the Groenendael is a faithful and reliable companion that enriches life together in a wonderful way.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Laekenois
The Laekenois is one of the four subspecies of the Belgian Shepherd and is characterized by its rough coat and lively nature. This versatile dog is not only intelligent and eager to learn, but also a loyal companion who is closely tied to his family.
Due to its origin as a working dog, the Laekenois is suitable for a wide variety of tasks and dog sports. His eagerness to work and his endurance make him the ideal partner for activities such as Schutzhund work or agility. It is important to offer him both mental and physical challenges to meet his needs.
Whoever chooses a Laekenois as a family dog should give him enough time, attention and loving guidance. With the right upbringing, the Laekenois will become a faithful and reliable companion that will enrich family life in a special way.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Malinois
The Malinois is another variety of the Belgian Shepherd and is characterized by its short, sand-colored coat and athletic build. This agile dog is highly intelligent and has a strong ability to learn, which makes it an excellent companion for active people.
Originally bred as a working dog, the Malinois is now active in many different areas, such as dog sports, rescue dog work, or as a police and tracking dog. He needs both physical and mental exercise to be happy and content.
If you choose a Malinois as a family dog, you should be prepared to provide him with sufficient employment, training and guidance. With loving and consistent training, the Malinois will develop into a reliable and loyal companion who will enrich the life of his family in many ways.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Tervueren
The Tervueren is one of the four subspecies of the Belgian Shepherd and is characterized by its long, dense coat and attractive appearance. This breed is known for its intelligence, its ability to learn and its close bond with the family, which makes it a loyal companion.
Like the other Belgian Shepherds, the Tervueren is suitable for various tasks and dog sports such as protection dog work, rescue dog work or agility. It is important for his well-being that he is challenged mentally and physically.
Anyone considering a Tervueren as a family dog should be prepared to give it time, attention and loving guidance. With the right upbringing and attitude, the Tervueren will become a loyal and reliable companion that will complement family life in a wonderful way.
Dutch Shepherd Dog (Hollandse Herdershond)
The Dutch Shepherd is a versatile and attractive dog breed from the Netherlands. He is characterized by his intelligence, his eagerness to learn and his attachment to his family, which makes him an excellent companion.
This working dog is suitable for a variety of activities and dog sports such as obedience, Schutzhund work or agility. To meet his needs, it is important to provide him with both mental and physical challenges.
Those who choose a Dutch Shepherd as a family dog should be prepared to give it enough time, love and consistent leadership. With proper training and attitude, the Dutch Shepherd will become a loyal and reliable companion that will enrich family life in an impressive way.
Australian Kelpie (Australian Working Dog)
The Australian Kelpie originally came from Australia and was used there mainly as a herding dog. The agile and persevering quadruped is known for its intelligence and quick perception, which make it a reliable and hardworking helper.
Today, the Kelpie is not only used as a working dog, but also enjoys increasing popularity as a family dog. He is particularly well suited for sporting activities such as agility or canicross. To be happy, the Australian Kelpie needs both physical and mental exercise.
If you want to take an Australian Kelpie into your family, it is important to offer him enough time, exercise and a loving upbringing. With the right attitude, the Kelpie will become a loyal and affectionate companion who will enrich the lives of his people in many ways.
Australian cattle dog (Australian Cattle Dog)
Australian Cattle Dogs are bundles of energy that originated in Australia. This breed was bred for herding and herding cattle and therefore has a high level of endurance and will to work.
In addition to its function as a working dog, the Australian Cattle Dog has also established itself as an active family dog. However, he needs consistent training and adequate physical and mental exercise to meet his needs. Dog sports such as agility, obedience or discdogging are excellent ways to meet this four-legged friend's energy needs.
If you are willing to give an Australian Cattle Dog the time, attention and guidance he needs, he will be a loyal and attentive companion who will bring you and your family much joy.
Learn more about the different breeds of dogs:
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Border Collie (Border Collie)
The Border Collie is an extremely intelligent and lively dog breed that originated on the border between Scotland and England. There he was traditionally used as a herding dog and is known for his impressive skills in handling sheep.
In recent years, the Border Collie has also gained popularity as a family dog. Due to his high intelligence and ability to learn, he is particularly well suited for demanding dog sports such as agility, obedience or flyball. It is important to provide the Border Collie with enough physical and mental exercise to keep him happy and balanced.
Anyone who is thinking of taking a Border Collie into their life should be aware that this breed requires a lot of time, patience and commitment. However, with proper attitude and education, the Border Collie will be a loyal and open-minded companion who will enrich your family.
Bearded Collie (Bearded Collie)
The Bearded Collie, often simply called "Beardie", is a charming dog breed that originated in Scotland. There he was used as a herding dog and appreciated for his ability to herd sheep and cattle. Today, the Bearded Collie has also won many hearts as a family dog.
The Beardie is a friendly, energetic and intelligent dog that fits well into family life. Its long, dense coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. With his pronounced eagerness to work and learn, the Bearded Collie is also very successful in various dog sports such as agility or obedience.
Who is interested in a Bearded Collie, should plan enough time and patience for the education and care. With loving care and consistent training, the Bearded Collie will be a loyal and happy companion who enriches the lives of his people.
Longhaired Collie (Rough Collie)
The Longhaired Collie, also known as the Scottish Collie or simply Collie, is a lovable and good-natured dog breed. These dogs are originally from Scotland and were used there for herding sheep. Nowadays, long haired collies enjoy great popularity as family dogs.
The Longhaired Collie is an intelligent and attentive dog that loves to learn and quickly understands new commands. Its long, silky coat requires regular grooming, but also gives it an elegant appearance. The Collie is generally gentle and patient, which makes it especially attractive to families with children.
It is important for the Longhair Collie to get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks and dog sports like agility can help keep him feeling both physically and mentally stimulated. With loving training and care, the Longhaired Collie will become a loyal and reliable companion who will enrich the lives of his people.
Shorthaired Collie (Smooth Collie)
The Shorthaired Collie, also called Smooth Collie, is a friendly and intelligent dog breed that differs from its long-haired relative, the Longhaired Collie, by its short coat. Originally from Scotland, the Shorthaired Collie, like the Longhaired Collie, was used as a herding dog and is also a popular family member today.
The shorthaired collie is a docile and alert dog that wants to be challenged physically and mentally. Its short, dense coat is easier to care for than that of the longhaired Collie, but regular grooming should still be observed. Shorthaired Collies are generally very social and compatible, which makes them ideal companions for families with children.
The shorthaired collie also benefits from sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Varied walks, dog sports or training sessions contribute to his all-round well-being. With loving training and the necessary empathy, the Shorthaired Collie will develop into a loyal and affectionate companion who will enrich your life together.
Table could not be displayed.Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
The Shetland Sheepdog, often affectionately called "Sheltie", is a small breed of dog originally from the Shetland Islands. The agile and nimble dogs were once used to herd sheep and are now very popular as family dogs.
Shelties are known for their intelligence and ability to learn, which is why they are often successful in various dog sports such as agility or obedience. They are also loving and loyal companions that fit well into family life. Their long, dense coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting.
With enough exercise and mental activity, Shelties stay content and balanced. Despite their small size, they need long walks and opportunities to live out their urge to move. A consistent but loving upbringing forms the basis for a harmonious coexistence with these charming four-legged friends.
Old English Sheepdog (Old English Sheepdog or Bobtail)
The Old English Sheepdog, also called "Old English Sheepdog" or "Bobtail", is a large, powerful dog breed that was originally used in Great Britain to guard flocks of sheep and cattle. This imposing dog with its thick, long coat and characteristic "bear face" is a real eye-catcher and loyal companion.
The Bobtail is a friendly, playful and intelligent dog that gets along well with children and other animals. He is very affectionate and loves the company of his humans. However, his lush coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and skin problems.
Despite his size and stature, the Old English Shepherd is an agile and persistent dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. He adapts well to different living conditions as long as he gets enough exercise and activity. A loving but consistent upbringing is essential to make this gentle giant a wonderful family member.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi (Welsh Corgi - Cardigan)
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a small, stocky dog that originated in Wales and was used as a herding dog for cattle and sheep. It is one of the oldest dog breeds in Britain and is easily recognized by its short legs, long back and bushy tail.
Despite its small size, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a very lively and alert dog that is well suited for active families. He is intelligent, eager to learn, and captivates with his bright and friendly nature. His natural herding instinct can lead him to try to "guard" people or other animals even at home, which can sometimes lead to undesirable behavior.
Since the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is an active and hard-working dog, he needs plenty of daily exercise and mental activity. Consistent, loving training and early socialization are important to make him a well-behaved and happy family dog.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi (Welsh Corgi - Pembroke)
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small, sturdy dog that also originated in Wales and is closely related to the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. The most noticeable difference between the two breeds is the tail: the Pembroke has a short, naturally clipped or docked tail, while the Cardigan has a longer, bushy tail.
This agile and nimble dog was originally bred to herd livestock and still shows a strong herding instinct today. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is intelligent, alert and easily trained. He is an ideal companion for active people or families, as he loves to play and always wants to be busy.
Despite its small size, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi should not be underestimated: He needs sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to be happy. A loving, consistent upbringing and early socialization are essential to get a well-mannered and balanced dog.
Briard (French Shepherd Dog)
The Briard is a large, powerful herding dog of French descent, prized for its long, slightly wavy coat and friendly, loyal nature. Originally used to herd and protect flocks of sheep, it is now a popular family dog that fits well into family life with adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Since the Briard is an intelligent and self-confident dog, it should be raised lovingly but consistently from the beginning. Good socialization at a young age is equally important so that he remains compatible and good-natured.
Briard owners must be willing to spend time grooming the lush coat to avoid matting and skin problems. Despite the necessary care and education, the Briard is a loyal and affectionate companion that bonds closely with its family and wants to protect them.
Pyrenean Sheepdog (Berger des Pyrénées)
The Pyrenean Sheepdog, also called Berger des Pyrénées, is a small, agile herding dog from the Pyrenees, a mountain range on the border between France and Spain. He is characterized by his agile, energetic nature and his tireless willingness to work. Its coat can come in different lengths and colors, the most common being fawn, gray and black.
Despite its small size, the Pyrenean Sheepdog is a very courageous and determined herding dog, which in the past was used mainly for driving and guarding flocks of sheep. Today he is an excellent companion dog for active people who like to spend time outdoors.
It is important to train this intelligent dog from an early age and keep him busy with mental and physical challenges to channel his energy in positive ways. The Pyrenean Sheepdog is very loyal and affectionate to its owner, which makes it a loyal companion and protector that fits well into family life.
Ca de Bestiar (Mallorcan Sheepdog)
The Mallorcan Shepherd Dog, also called Ca de Bestiar, is a medium-sized breed of dog that originated in Spain and has been used for centuries in the Balearic Islands as a working dog. They are robust, strong and have a thick coat that protects them from the heat and cold of the island. These shepherd dogs are characterized by their loyalty and protective instinct, which makes them excellent guard dogs. They are also intelligent and eager to learn, and need regular mental and physical exercise to stay happy and healthy. Although they were traditionally bred as herding dogs, today they are also valued as family dogs and are very popular among the inhabitants of the Balearic Islands.
South Russian Ovsharka (South Russian Shepherd Dog)
The South Russian Ovcharka, also called the Caucasian Ovcharka, is a large breed of dog that originated in the mountains of the Caucasus. These dogs were originally bred to protect and guard flocks of sheep and goats, but today they are also used as guard and family dogs.
The Ovsharka is known for strength, courage and determination. Southern Russian Ovcharka have a thick coat that protects them from the cold, but also requires a lot of care. These dogs are very intelligent and independent, but also stubborn and territorial. Due to their size and protective instincts, they are not suitable for every dog owner and require consistent training and socialization.
Croatian Shepherd Dog (Hrvatski Ovcar)
Croatian Shepherd Dog is a medium sized dog breed that is bred in Croatia. These dogs have a dense coat, which can be in different colors such as black, gray and brown.
The Croatian Shepherd Dog is an intelligent and hard-working dog, traditionally used as a shepherd dog. He is very active and therefore needs regular exercise and occupation. He is also suitable as a family dog if he gets enough exercise and mental challenges. The Croatian Shepherd Dog is known for its endurance, its ability to protect and defend itself, and its loyalty to its owner.
Mudi (Hungarian Shepherd Dog)
The Mudi is a medium-sized, robust Hungarian herding dog that is characterized by intelligence, endurance and a love of work. Its coat is often wavy or curly and can come in a variety of colors such as black, brown or gray. The Mudi is a very versatile dog and is often used for various jobs such as driving herds of sheep or cattle, hunting, guarding properties or even as a rescue dog.
As a family dog, however, the Mudi needs sufficient exercise and mental occupation in order to reach its full potential. His close bond with his caregiver makes him a loyal companion who can also assume a protective function. Due to his eagerness to learn and his ability to adapt quickly to different situations, the Mudi is a loyal and reliable partner for active people and families.
Picard shepherd dog (Berger Picard)
The Picard is a medium-sized dog breed from France. He is known for his endurance, robustness and versatility, which make him a popular herding and hunting dog. Its coat is coarse, with a characteristic mane on the neck. Colors range from gray to various shades of brown.
Because of its origin as a working dog, the Picardy Sheepdog has a strong personality and is very intelligent. He needs regular physical and mental challenges to stay happy and healthy. His affectionate and loyal nature makes him an ideal companion for active families who spend a lot of time outdoors.
The Picard can also be used as a guard dog, as he instinctively protects his family and home. With proper training and socialization, he is a loyal and affectionate family dog that builds a close bond with his owner.
*Last update on 2024-11-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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