The Herding Group
The new group was arranged because of the history of certain breeds. These dogs were bred to herd livestock and work on farms. They were responsible for keeping cattle, sheep, and other herds in formation.
Characteristics
Herding dogs have a job to do. They need to be kept busy because they are a hard working group. If you do not have cattle for the dog to herd you have to give them some kind of purpose.
- Herding dogs have high energy levels. They need daily exercise and can go for house.
- You will need to exercise their bodies as well as challenge their minds. They can be trained to compete in dog agility contests, obedience training, and herding trials.
- Herding dogs are very smart and are great problem solvers.
- This group is very loyal and devoted to their owner.
- Herding dogs need to be trained around kids. Otherwise they may try to herd your kids.
Breed Associated Health Problems And Other Issues
Some members of the herding group have some common health problems. Some problems may affect the whole group while some affect certain breeds.
- Deafness - This may affect one or both ears. This is particularly true for the Australian Cattle Dog, the Old English Sheepdog and the Collie.
- Dysplasia - This hip and elbow health problem is common to the German Shepherd and the Border Collie
- Diabetes - Both Old English Sheepdogs and German Shepherd are prone to this disease.
- Epilepsy - The Collie and the German Shepherd are susceptible to this illness.
- Collie Eye - This disorder is common among collies of all breeds.
- Cataracts - This type of eye problem affects several members of the Herding Group. They include the Australian Cattle Dog, the German Shepherd and the Old English Sheepdog
Grooming Requirements
These needs are very different between the breeds in the Herding group. The coats are very different between the members of the group. The Old English Sheepdog needs brushing almost daily. But the German Shepherd can keep looking good with weeks between brushing and bathing.
Members of the Herding group
The sizes of the Herding group range from medium to large. They are all very smart and very energetic and make great pets.
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Belgian
- Sheepdog
- Border Collie
- Canaan dog
- Bouvier des Flandres
- Briard Collie
- German Shepherd
- Old English Sheepdog
- Puli
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Welsh Corgi
Content written by Jenny Brown of www.ohmydogsupplies.com, where you can find a extraordinary assortment of chew resistant dog toys online.
