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The Herding Group

AKC Dog Breed Groups & Classifications

by Krista Mifflin
for About.com

The AKC (American Kennel Club), and indeed, every National Kennel Club and dog registry, classifies each dog breed based on its original function. This is a list of the Herding Group -

Canaan Dog

Collie

Photo courtesy of and © Jeff
The Collie is a loyal and dependable herding dog, adapting easily to both working and family life. With two coat choices to choose from (smooth or rough), the Collie is both viually appealing and agreeable to most dog lovers. He is a sweet-tempered dog with a firm grasp of territory and fine protective instincts.

German Shepherd Dog

One of the most versatile dog breeds today, the German Shepherd has a strong and devoted fanbase. A breed that oozes self-confidence and intelligence, the German Shepherd is sought after by law enforcement agencies, search and rescue workers, dog sport enthusiasts and especially families. Highly trainable and agile, this dog will fulfill nearly any role that a dog owner can think of.
  • German Shepherd Gallery
  • Old English Sheepdog

    Photo courtesy of and © Gail Bodisch
    With his shaggy fur and distinctive grey and white coloring, the Old English Sheepdog looks more like a child's stuffed toy than the intelligent and alert dog he really is. A natural guardian, the Old English Sheepdog is also a laid-back companion, easily able to go from being your early morning jogging partner, to a sofa-hound in the afternoon, and a rambunctious play companion to the kids in the evening. He does take quite a bit of brushing time though, to keep his luxurious coat in order, but the bonding time it gives you is well worth the effort.

    Polish Lowland Sheepdog

    Puli

    Shetland Sheepdog

    A small dog of even temperament and rough coat, the Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie, for short) is a dog that fits well in a family unit. That said, the Shetland Sheepdog is also, first and foremost, sheepdog with important needs regarding exercise. In order to be a well-behaved pet, plenty of interaction and exercise is a must. Lack of interaction will bring out the mischief in these dogs, and they can become annoying barkers without stimulation. An intelligent and gentle-natured dog, Shetland Sheepdogs deal extremely well with children and other animals.
  • Shetland Sheepdog Pictures
  • Swedish Vallhund

    One of the four new dog breeds debuting at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show this year (2008), the Swedish Vallhund is a herding dog with aerodynamic shape: long and low to the ground.

    Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)

    Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)

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