Sheepdogs

The German Shepherd is one of the most famous dog breeds in the world and originated in Germany. Bred for herding and working purposes, it is characterized by its intelligence, loyalty and versatility. With a strong, muscular build and sharp mind, it is often used in police and military work as well as search and rescue. The breed is known for its close bond with family, but also needs consistent training and adequate exercise. Some health concerns, such as hip dysplasia, are known but can be minimized with careful breeding and care.

The Altdeutsche Schäferhund does not designate a breed of its own, but rather a variant or type of the German Shepherd Dog, characterized especially by its long, lush coat. It represents the original form of the German Shepherd before breeding standardization changed its appearance.

The coat of the Old German Shepherd is long, dense and wavy, giving it a particularly plush and attractive appearance. This characteristic distinguishes it from the more modern German Shepherds with shorter hair.

In terms of temperament, intelligence and working ability, Old German Shepherds are similar to modern German Shepherds. They are equally loyal, intelligent, and willing to work, and are excellent for various types of work, including police work, search and rescue, and as family dogs.

Grooming of the long coat requires more attention and regular brushing to prevent matting. Health problems are also similar to those of the breed as a whole, including possible hip dysplasia.

The Old German Shepherd is often prized by fanciers for its traditional appearance and character, which reflects the breed's heritage.

The Dutch Shepherd is a medium-sized dog breed originally bred in the Netherlands. It comes in three different coat types: short-haired, long-haired and rough-haired, with characteristic silver and gold shades. Known for its intelligence and loyalty, the Dutch Shepherd is family-oriented and good with children and other pets. Originally used as a herding dog, it is also popular in dog sports such as agility and obedience. Grooming varies depending on coat type, with the long-haired and rough-coated varieties requiring regular brushing. Overall, the Dutch Shepherd is a hardy and versatile breed that is suitable as a loving family dog or diligent working partner.

The Australian Shepherd, often called simply "Aussie", is paradoxically a dog breed developed in the United States, not Australia. He is known for his striking blue, green or amber eyes and long, multi-colored coat that often features merle patterns.

The Aussie is an intelligent, energetic animal that loves to work. Originally bred as a herding dog, it has a strong herding instinct. This breed is also known for its abilities in many dog sports, including agility, obedience and flyball.

Family is close to the Australian Shepherd's heart, and he is considered affectionate and loyal, however, he requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. His coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

The Australian Shepherd is great for active families and individuals who are willing to invest the time and energy this lively and intelligent breed requires.

The Berger Blanc Suisse, also known as the White Shepherd, is a dog breed closely related to the German Shepherd. This breed is characterized by its impressive pure white coat, which can be either short or long.

The White Shepherd is known for its friendly and gentle temperament. He is often very loyal and family oriented, which makes him an excellent companion dog. At the same time, he is also alert and vigilant, which makes him a good watchdog.

Despite his elegant appearance, the Berger Blanc Suisse is a robust and versatile working and sporting partner. He can be used in areas such as obedience, agility and even search and rescue.

Maintenance of its white coat requires regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons. In terms of health, they are prone to some of the same conditions as German Shepherds, such as hip dysplasia.

The Berger Blanc Suisse is well suited for families and individuals who can provide a loving home for an active and intelligent dog.

The Icelandic Sheepdog, also known as the Icelandic Sheepdog, is the only native breed of dog in Iceland. It is a small to medium-sized dog that has a thick, weather-resistant double coat that protects it from the harsh climatic conditions of its homeland.

This lively and intelligent dog was originally used for herding sheep and other livestock in the harsh landscapes of Iceland. Despite its working origins, it is also a loving and loyal family dog that gets along well with children and other pets.

The Icelandic Hound is known for his happy nature and playful character. He is also a good guard, announcing strangers by barking, but is not aggressive.

The Icelandic Dog's coat requires regular grooming, especially during shedding, but otherwise he is a fairly low-maintenance breed. He is adaptable and can live in both urban and rural environments as long as he gets enough exercise and mental stimulation.

The Icelandic Hound is a robust and healthy breed that can be an excellent companion for many people. His unique blend of willingness to work, intelligence and friendly temperament makes him a special family member.

The Belgian Shepherd is a versatile and highly intelligent dog breed that was originally bred in Belgium. The breed is divided into four different variants based on coat color and texture: Groenendael, Tervuren, Malinois and Laekenois. Despite these differences, all variants share many common characteristics.

Belgian Shepherds are medium-sized dogs with an elegant and athletic appearance. They are known for their working ability and are often used in police, security and rescue services. Their intelligence and trainability level also make them excellent candidates for dog sports such as agility and obedience.

In the family, Belgian Shepherds are loving and loyal companions. They tend to form close bonds with their owners and are often especially good with children. However, they do require clear leadership and sufficient mental and physical stimulation, as they are an active and energetic breed.

Grooming requirements vary by variety, with differences in coat care between the long-haired, short-haired and rough-haired types. In terms of health, Belgian Shepherds are generally hardy, but may be prone to some hereditary conditions, including hip dysplasia.

The Belgian Shepherd is a wonderful companion for those looking for an active and engaging dog who is willing to invest time in training and exercise. Their versatility and appealing nature make them a popular choice for many dog lovers.

The Malinois is one of the four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog and is often praised for its working abilities and intense temperament. It bears the name of the Belgian city of Malines, where the breed was developed.

The Malinois is a medium-sized dog with an athletic, well-proportioned body. Its coat is short, dense and in colors ranging from fawn to mahogany, often with black markings. The ears are large and stand erect, giving the dog a striking appearance.

In terms of temperament, the Malinois is intelligent, energetic and focused. He was originally bred for herding, but is very successful in many working environments such as police, military and protective services. His trainability and drive also make him popular in dog sports such as agility and Schutzhund work.

Although the Malinois is an excellent working breed, he can also be a loyal family dog. He is not for everyone, however, as he requires consistent training and plenty of exercise. Without proper guidance and stimulation, he can become bored or overly active.

Health-wise, the Malinois is generally robust, but can be prone to some inherited conditions, such as hip dysplasia. Its short coat requires minimal grooming.

The Malinois is best suited for active individuals or families who have experience with dogs and can devote the time and energy this energetic and demanding breed requires.

The Croatian Sheepdog, also known as Hrvatski Ovcar, is a dog breed originally bred in Croatia. This breed is particularly well known in the Croatian areas of Slavonia and Baranja, where it is mainly used as a herding dog for sheep and other livestock.

The Croatian Shepherd Dog is a medium-sized dog with a slender, athletic build. Its coat is black, medium length, and slightly wavy, giving it a distinctive appearance. The ears are usually semi-erect, and the tail is often bushy.

Known for his intelligence and eagerness to work, the Croatian Shepherd is an excellent worker, able to skillfully control large herds. His loyalty and alertness also make him a good watchdog.

In the family, the Croatian Shepherd is shown to be affectionate and loving, especially towards children. He usually gets along well with other animals and appreciates the company of his humans. Since the Croatian Shepherd is a working breed, he needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. He is best suited for a home where he will be given tasks that utilize his energy and intelligence.

The Croatian Shepherd is a unique and fascinating breed that is well suited for active families or individuals looking for an intelligent, hardworking and loyal dog. His herding abilities and friendly nature make him a valuable member for those who can meet his need for exercise and employment.

The Border Collie is one of the most famous and intelligent dog breeds in the world, originally bred on the border between England and Scotland as a herding dog.

With a lean, athletic body and an intense, penetrating gaze, the Border Collie is known for its amazing working ability. He has incredible energy and focus and can herd sheep and other animals with precision and skill.

The Border Collie's coat can be long or short and comes in many colors and patterns. Grooming varies depending on the coat type, but regular brushing is usually recommended.

Intelligence and trainability are hallmarks of this breed, and many Border Collies excel in dog sports such as agility, flyball and obedience. They can also be used in search and rescue and as therapy dogs.

Despite their many positive traits, Border Collies are not dogs for everyone. Their high intelligence and energy mean they need a lot of mental and physical stimulation, and they can become bored or develop undesirable behavior in an inactive home.

In the family, Border Collies are usually loving and loyal, although they can sometimes be a bit reserved with strangers. They often get along well with children and other pets if properly socialized.

The Kuvasz is an impressive and majestic dog breed that was originally bred in Hungary as a guard and herding dog for farm animals. The breed has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Middle Ages.

The Kuvasz is a large dog with a strong and robust build. It is known for its beautiful, dense, white coat that is not only attractive but also weather resistant. The eyes are dark and expressive, and the entire dog exudes a noble appearance.

As a guard dog, the Kuvasz is courageous and alert, often reserved with strangers, but deeply loyal to his family. He is known for his intelligence and independence, which makes him an effective guard, but also means he needs firm and consistent training.

In the family, the Kuvasz is often affectionate and protective, especially towards children. He tends to form a close bond with one or more family members and can be a wonderful companion. However, its size and strength require careful supervision, especially with young children.

Despite his thick coat, the Kuvasz is surprisingly low maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing. As with many large breeds, he can be prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia.

The Kuvasz is not the best choice for first-time dog owners or those looking for a dog with low maintenance needs. However, for those willing to invest time and effort in training and care, the Kuvasz can be a loyal and noble friend whose presence is both protective and reassuring.

The term "Hungarian Shepherd Dog" can refer to several breeds of dogs that were developed in Hungary for herding work. These include the Kuvasz, the Komondor, the Puli, the Pumi, and the Mudi. These breeds each have unique characteristics, but share some common traits as they were used in Hungarian farming and herding.

1. Kuvasz: As described earlier, the Kuvasz is a large, white guard and protection dog.

2. Komondor: Pictured here - The Komondor is known for its distinctive, corded coat. It is a courageous guard dog and a loyal companion. The Komondor is a fascinating and distinctive Hungarian dog breed, known for its long, corded coat that makes it look like a mop. This unique coat originally served as protection from predators and extreme weather conditions while he guarded his herd. The Komondor is a large and robust dog that was originally bred as a guard dog for flocks of sheep. He is courageous, confident and takes his guard duties very seriously. Towards his family, however, the Komondor often appears calm and gentle.

3. Puli: The Puli is famous for its dense, wavy coat that can become characteristic "cords". It is intelligent, energetic, and an excellent herding dog.

4. Pumi: The Pumi is medium-sized, with curly hair and large, alert ears. He is lively and playful, but also a skilled worker.

5. Mudi: The smallest of the Hungarian Shepherds, the Mudi is known for its smooth, wavy coat and its versatility as a working and companion dog.

Although these breeds each have different needs and temperaments, they are generally intelligent, hard-working dogs that require clear leadership and training. They were bred to work independently, and many have strong protective instincts.

Hungarian Shepherds can make excellent family dogs, but it is important to understand their respective characteristics and needs. They are usually happiest when they have a job to do, whether it is herding, agility, obedience, or just regular play and exercise time with their family. Their unique appearance and temperament make them fascinating and rewarding companions for those willing to invest in their care and training.

The Bobtail, also known as the Old English Sheepdog, is a large and distinctive breed of dog that was originally bred in England as a herding and driving dog. The name "Bobtail" comes from the tradition of docking the tail to indicate the dog's status as a working dog, although this practice is now banned in many countries.

The most striking feature of the Bobtail is its dense, long, and woolly coat, which comes in shades of gray to blue with white markings. The coat gives it a plush and almost bear-like appearance, but it also requires a lot of grooming. Regular brushing is required to prevent matting and skin problems.

The Bobtail is an intelligent, affectionate and often playful dog that is well suited for family life. He is known for his affectionate nature and usually gets along well with children and other pets.

Despite his size, the Bobtail tends to think of himself as a lap dog and often seeks to be close to his humans. However, he can also be a good watchdog, as he is often reserved toward strangers and has a deep, barking bark.

In training, the Bobtail often shows his intelligence and resourcefulness, but can also be stubborn. Positive reinforcement and patient, consistent training are key factors in bringing out the best in this breed.

Like many large dogs, the Bobtail can be prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia and some genetic eye disorders. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary checkups can help minimize the risk of these problems.

The Bobtail is an impressive and lovable breed that makes a loyal and playful companion for those willing to spend the time to care for and train him. Its unique appearance and friendly nature have made it a popular pet worldwide.

The Catalan Sheepdog, also known as Gos d'Atura Català, is a Spanish dog breed native to the autonomous region of Catalonia. The breed was primarily bred for herding sheep and other livestock.

The Gos d'Atura Català is a medium-sized dog with a robust, well-proportioned body. It is known for its dense and sometimes wavy coat, which protects it from the elements. Coat color can vary and includes shades of fawn, gray, black, sable and more.

As a herding dog, the Catalan Sheepdog is intelligent, alert and responsive. He is known for his ability to work independently as well as respond to commands from his human guardian. This intelligence and adaptability also make him a talented participant in dog sports such as agility and obedience.

The Catalan Shepherd needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. He may thrive best in an active home that offers plenty of outdoor time and tasks that utilize his working skills. Coat care can vary depending on the dog's specific coat type, but regular brushing is usually recommended to prevent matting and skin problems.

The Gos d'Atura Català is a breed full of character and attractiveness that is appreciated in its native Spain and increasingly internationally. Its working abilities, intelligence and loyalty make it a remarkable companion for those looking for an active and dedicated dog.

The Greek Shepherd Dog, also known as Hellinikos Poimenikos, is a rare breed of dog found mainly in Greece. As the name suggests, this breed was primarily bred for herding work, to protect and guard sheep and goats.

The Greek Shepherd is a large and robust dog with a thick coat that provides it with protection in the harsh mountainous regions of Greece. Coat color varies, with black, brown, and brindle (striped) being the most common.

The Hellinikos Poimenikos is known for its intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness. He is a hard worker with a natural instinctiveness that enables him to effectively guard herds and deter predators. He tends to work independently and self-reliantly, which is beneficial to his herding role.

Despite his working qualities, the Greek Shepherd is also a loyal and affectionate companion. With his family, he is often gentle and protective, but can be wary of strangers. Early socialization and patient training are critical to fostering a well-adjusted and obedient dog. The Hellinikos Poimenikos requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and would thrive best in a home with a large garden or on a farm. Grooming of the coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting.

Unfortunately, the Greek Shepherd is endangered as a breed. Modernization of agriculture and the use of technology instead of labor have led to a decrease in demand for this type of dog. Efforts are being made to preserve and promote the breed, but the number of purebred dogs remains low.

The Tatra Sheepdog, also known as the Polish Tatra Sheepdog or Owczarek Podhalanski, is an impressive and majestic dog breed native to the Tatra mountain region in Poland.

This large dog has a sturdy build and a beautiful, thick, white coat that gives it a stately appearance while providing protection from the harsh mountain weather conditions. The thick undercoat and long top coat require regular grooming to prevent matting.

The Tatra Sheepdog was originally bred to protect flocks of sheep from predators, and its working characteristics are reflected in its temperament. He is an alert, independent and courageous dog, capable of making independent decisions when working in the pasture.

Despite his size and serious working demeanor, the Tatra Sheepdog is known for being a calm and composed family dog. He is loyal and affectionate to his people and often shows a special affection for children.

The Tatra Sheepdog is a symbol of the Polish mountain regions and a proud representative of the sheepdog breeds. Its combination of working ability, intelligence and affectionate temperament makes it a valuable companion both for work and family life.

The English Shepherd is an American dog breed and should not be confused with the Old English Sheepdog. The name is somewhat misleading, as the breed was developed in the United States, but the name may refer to the English Sheepdogs, which some believe are ancestors of this breed.

The English Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a compact and muscular build. It has a dense, wavy or smooth coat that can come in a variety of colors such as black and white, tricolor or sable.

This breed was originally bred as an all-purpose farm dog and is often described as a "farm dog in one". The English Shepherd can herd, guard, control pests and act as a loyal family companion. His versatility and intelligence make him a valuable member of the agricultural community.

The English Shepherd is known for his intelligence and trainability. He responds well to positive reinforcement and is often successful in dog sports such as agility and obedience. Despite his working ability, he also has a gentle and loving side that makes him an excellent family dog.

The Collie is a well-known dog breed that was originally bred in Scotland and northern England for herding work. There are several varieties, including the Rough Collie with a long coat and the Smooth Collie with a short coat. Collies are intelligent, graceful and known for their loyalty. They are family oriented, get along well with children, and are usually easy to train. Their intelligence also makes them successful participants in various dog sports. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are important, especially for the Rough Collie, which requires regular grooming.

More great shepherd dogs

Sheepdogs are known worldwide for their intelligence, loyalty and versatility. They are used in a variety of roles, from herding to police and therapy work.

Sheepdogs are generally willing to work, intelligent and loyal to their owners. They thrive in environments where they are challenged physically and mentally, and many make excellent family dogs when properly socialized and trained. Their diversity and adaptability make German Shepherds one of the most valued and versatile dog families in the world. Here we introduce you to more sheepdogs in detail.