Are herding dogs a type of breed or just dogs that perform a function?”
A herding dog, also known as a stock dog, is a type of pastoral dog that either has been trained in herding or belongs to breeds developed for herding. Their ability to be trained to act on the sound of a whistle or word of command is renowned throughout the world.[1] In Australia, New Zealand and the United States herding dogs are known as working dogs irrespective of their breeding. Some herding breeds work well with any kind of animals; others have been bred for generations to work with specific kinds of animals and have developed physical characteristics or styles of working that enhance their ability to handle these animals. Commonly mustered animals include cattle, sheep, goats and deer, although it is not unusual for poultry to be handled by dogs.[1] The term “herding dog” is sometimes erroneously used to describe livestock guardian dogs, whose primary function is to guard flocks from predation and theft. Herding dogs do not guard flocks but move them. In general terms when cate
A herding dog, also known as a stock dog, is a type of pastoral dog that either has been trained in herding or belongs to breeds developed for herding. Their ability to be trained to act on the sound of a whistle or word of command is renowned throughout the world.[1] In Australia, New Zealand and the United States herding dogs are known as working dogs irrespective of their breeding. Some herding breeds work well with any kind of animals; others have been bred for generations to work with specific kinds of animals and have developed physical characteristics or styles of working that enhance their ability to handle these animals. Commonly mustered animals include cattle, sheep, goats and deer, although it is not unusual for poultry to be handled by dogs.[1] The term “herding dog” is sometimes erroneously used to describe livestock guardian dogs, whose primary function is to guard flocks from predation and theft. Herding dogs do not guard flocks but move them. In general terms when cate
