7 loveable shepherd breeds — including some you may not know
Shepherd breeds are masters at managing crowd control on a farm, but they also make brilliant family companions. From Icelandic Sheepdogs to Australian Shepherds, these breeds are loyal, intelligent, and have a built-in instinct to protect their owners.
Any dog breed with 'shepherd' in their name was most likely raised to do just that — raise sheep. Shepherds are outstanding working dogs, with many trained as service dogs. Typically, shepherd dogs have short or medium-length double coats.
"While some shepherd breeds are very well-known – such as the German Shepherd – others are lesser-known," a spokesperson from The Kennel Club tells Country Living.
"Individual dogs have their own unique and varying traits and there are many other factors that can shape a dog's character and temperament. It's therefore important to research any breed's exercise, training and grooming requirements before buying a puppy."
Take a look at the different types of shepherd breeds below, including some lesser-known dogs:
Icelandic Sheepdog
"The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland's native breed of dog and has ancient origins, having been referred to in the Sagas more than a thousand years ago," says a spokesperson from The Kennel Club.
"It is thought to be the descendant of the dogs brought to Iceland by the original Viking settlers to herd livestock, including Icelandic horses."
This breed is instantly recognisable by its dense coat, foxy face, pointed ears, and bushy curling tail.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd currently holds the Crufts Best in Show title – thanks to a dog called Viking taking the crown at the show in 2024.
"Despite their slightly deceptive name, their origins actually come from America where they worked as a sheepdog on the ranches," say the experts.
"Outside of their working background, they enjoy exercise that satisfies their herding instincts, and is a reason why they often excel in many canine activities, such as agility, obedience and heelwork to music, as well as seeing success in the show ring."
German Shepherd
Energetic, versatile and intelligent, German Shepherds are loving dogs that make great companions.
As well as this, their history of herding has meant they are great guard dogs, police dogs, military dogs, search and rescue dogs, and guide dogs for the blind.
Smooth Faced Pyrenean Sheepdog
The team add: "Officially recognised by The Kennel Club in 2021, the Smooth Faced Pyrenean Sheepdog was originally bred for horse and cattle herding in the lower foothills of the Pyrenees, and can be traced back to the late 18th and 19th centuries.
"They are an energetic and intelligent breed that has retained a strong herding instinct."
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a large and active breed that originally worked as a 'flock guard' to protect livestock from predators.
"They are also said to have lived a nomadic life and travelled great distances. As such, they are agile and very loyal to their owners," adds The Kennel Club.
Old English Sheepdog
"The Old English Sheepdog, often referred to as the 'Dulux dog', is one of the UK's most iconic breeds, but they are sadly rarely seen in our streets and parks these days with the breed currently on The Kennel Club's 'At Watch' list of breeds," says the team.
"Little is known about the breed's true origins but they are thought to have worked around cattle – meaning their title as a sheepdog isn't entirely accurate."
Shetland Sheepdog
And finally, the Shetland Sheepdog is another shepherd dog to know about.
"Easily recognised by their beautiful and rich coat, Shetland Sheepdogs are strong, active and intelligent sheepdogs originating from the Shetland Islands," says The Kennel Club.
"Shetland Sheepdogs are active dogs that excel in many canine activities including agility and obedience but also can be a calm companion for less active owners, providing they are prepared to regularly groom that long rich coat."
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