Cattle dog breeds are renowned for their intelligence, their work ethic and trainability.

It’s no wonder these dogs are amongst the most popular pets around.

And continue to play a vital role in modern-day working society.

Shetland Sheepdog

Australian Shepherd

Old English Sheepdog

Border Collie

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Belgian Malinois

Australian Cattle Dog

Collie

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Finnish Lapphund

Finding A Cattle Dog

Best Cattle Dog Breeds

Shetland Sheepdog

Sometimes called the Sheltie, the Shetland Sheepdog is a herding dog from Scotland.

As his name suggests, this dog- like other cattle dog breeds- had the primary role of herding sheep through very harsh conditions all over the Shetland Islands.

Today, many Shetland Sheepdogs still enjoy the farm life and doing what they do best—herding sheep.

But their patient and docile nature make for a wonderful family pet.

The Shetland Sheepdog is also known to make a great therapy pet, working best as an emotional support animal for those who have suffered trauma.

The Shetland Sheepdog is a highly intelligent and spirited breed with lots of stamina. 

They weigh around 15-25 pounds and stand at 13-16 inches tall.

This breed is generally easy to train but they like to bark, making them great watchdogs!

This is a potentially sensitive dog who can be distant around strangers, but he’s excellent with family, especially children!

They can be prone to a few health conditions. These include:

• Collie eye anomaly
• Cataracts
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Coloboma
• Eyelash abnormalities
• Corneal dystrophy
• Epilepsy
• Heart disease

The Shetland Sheepdog has a lifespan of 12-14 years 

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a dog with American roots, whose lineage is traced back to the wild west. 

They roamed farms and ran alongside cowboys through rough mountain ranges.

The Aussie is excellent at herding and is said to be remarkable in the fact that he seems to suffer no adverse effects from the high altitude of the Rocky Mountains.

The original cowboy companion, the Aussie makes a wonderful family pet, but he’s also still one of the most popular herding dogs on the market.

And just like the Shetland Sheepdog, the Aussie is a top choice for those seeking a sensitive, attentive therapy pet.

The Aussie is a working dog whose brains, beauty, and stamina unite to make him the full package!

Tthe Australian Shepherd weighs between 40 and 65 pounds and is between 18 to 23 inches tall.

Although he’s said to be a healthy dog, he can still be prone to: 

• Hip dysplasia
• Eye diseases
• Drug sensitivity
• Epilepsy

The Australian Shepherd lives from 12-15 years.

Old English Sheepdog

The Old English Sheepdog is a cattle dog breed who was established in England from a very old, very rustic style of dog.

They are believed to have worked primarily as a ‘drover', meaning he drove sheep and cattle across rough terrain to the marketplace.

Due to their unique looks and patient demeanor, the Old English Sheepdog does quite well in dog shows.

They can also make for a fabulous family dog, doing excellently with children and other household pets.

If allowed, the Old English Sheepdog’s coat can grow to be very long and shaggy, with his fur often covering their faces.

This  is an easy-going dog with a very friendly spirit and sweet disposition.

They can weigh up to 100 pounds and can grow to over 22 inches.

The inheritable conditions to be aware of are:

• Deafness
• Cataracts
• Gastric torsion (bloat)
• Otitis externa
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Cerebellar ataxia
• Retinal detachment
• Hypothyroidism
• Hip dysplasia

This large cattle dog breed has a lifespan of 10-12 years.

Border Collie

Border Collies can be linked to several Collie-type lineages throughout history.

They are one of history’s most talented cattle dog breeds, excelling at herding and droving as farm dogs.

Amazingly, many sources claim the Border Collie was so adept at this work that they could easily take on the labor capacity of three humans!

It’s no surprise that the Border Collie is still being used as a herding dog. 

Their talent and intelligence make them a top choice for farmers looking to lighten their workload.

The Border Collie has also found use in airports and on golf courses, chasing away wild birds who would otherwise wreak havoc.

Although this cattle herding dog makes for a good family pet and does well with the kiddos, they are a big commitment. 

They need consistent training and exercise to stay mentally and physically fit.

The Border Collie is a very loving breed whose intelligence and energy will keep you on your toes!

It’s important to keep in mind that this is a true working dog, and without a ‘job’ to do, he could be prone to destructive behaviors and depression.

This is a medium-sized cattle dog who weighs 30-55 pounds and stands 18-22 inches tall.

These dogs can be predisposed to:

• Seizures
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Osteochondritis dissecans
• Lens luxation
• Hypothyroidism
• Patent ductus arteriosus
• Collie eye anomaly
• Hip dysplasia

The Border Collie lives about 12-15 years

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a cattle breed who is said to be amid the oldest of all cattle breeds.

In fact, documentation places him in Wales as early as 1200 BC.

The Cardi was originally used to guard farmsteads, but their tenacious spirit led them to take on the roles of a cattle drover and herding dog.

In spite of being bred as a guard dog, the Cardi’s small size made them an excellent herding dog. 

Their low-to-the-ground stature protected them from any wayward kicks from the cattle they were driving.

The Cardi is still a highly used cattle dog today, but they are also just as valued as a family companion.

This little dog also enjoys competing in doggie sports like sheepdog trials and agility.

This little dog packs a big punch! 

For a cattle dog weighing a mere 25-38 pounds and standing at only 10.5-12.5 inches, the Cardi is full of love, courage, and intelligence.

Although some Cardis can attach to one specific family member, a well-socialized Cardi will get along with just about anyone.

They can suffer from:

• Degenerative myelopathy
• Hip dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Urinary stones
• Intervertebral disc disease

The Cardi has a lifespan of 12-15 years

Belgian Malinois

This cattle dog breed comes from Belgium, where their primary use was to herd sheep.

However, a muscular build and naturally protective nature made them an excellent guard dog for property as well as people.

Though this breed can make a good family pet when properly socialized and trained, the Malinois is a working dog through and through.

While they can still be found herding, this cattle breed’s keen sense of smell and intelligence has taken them far beyond the pastures.

The modern-day Malinois is famous for working in K-9 units all over the world. 

Excelling in narcotics and explosive detection, and helping police track down criminals.

Impressively, the Malinois has ranks that go all the way to the top! They even help to guard the White House!

Weighing in at 40-60 pounds and standing 22-26 inches tall, the Malinois is an intelligent, assertive dog.

One who enjoys hard work as much as they enjoy a playful romp in the yard.

This breed is incredibly affectionate, forming a strong bond with their human counterpart, especially when working closely with one person.

They can be prone to:

• Elbow dysplasia
• Pannus
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Hemangiosarcoma
• Cataracts

The Malinois lives from 14-16 years.

Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, or Blue Heeler, was bred for herding and is believed to be a distant relative of Australia’s wild dog, the Dingo.

They are a very common farm dog today, so don’t be surprised if you see one out in the fields nipping at the heels of cattle and sheep.

This is also another one of the cattle dog breeds that makes a great companion.

Though they are said to be so intelligent that they have been known to outwit their owners!

Famously smart and extremely energetic, this cattle breed will need lots of exercise and mental stimulation throughout his life to keep him healthy and happy.

They weigh about 35-50 pounds and can grow up to 20 inches tall.

There are few genetic health issues to be aware of: 

• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Deafness
• Osteochondritis Dissecans

The Australian Cattle Dog has a lifespan of 12-16 years

Collie

Another one of the herding cattle dog breeds from Scotland, the Collie is said to have worked as a drover in the highlands. 

There they primarily drove sheep and goats.

However, the Collie breed went from a working breed to royalty as soon as Queen Victoria got her hands on one.

These days, the Collie finds more use as a companion dog than a herding dog, although you can still find him from time to time in the pastures.

This breed is truly regaled for his intelligence and is known to excel in dog sports and shows.

This faithful, intelligent dog is perhaps one of the world’s most recognized cattle breeds thanks to Eric Knight’s 1940’s character Lassie!

They are elegant, beautiful, and incredibly brainy, making them an excellent companion.

They weigh 50-75 pounds and stand 22-26 inches tall.

This breed is most prone to:

• Collie eye anomaly
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Cataracts
• Corneal dystrophy
• Persistent pupillary membranes
• Allergies
• Pyoderma
• Demodectic mange
• Nasal solar dermatitis
• Epilepsy
• Heart disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Deafness

The Collie lives 12-14 years.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

This short-legged cattle dog hails from Pembrokeshire, Wales. 

The second of the two Corgi breeds has no tail.

Like the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, the Pembroke Corgi is one of the smallest of the herding breeds.

Outside of herding, the Pembroke was also beloved by British Royalty. 

In fact, Queen Elizabeth II is said to have owned more than thirty Pembroke Corgis during her life.

Adoring of his family members and quite clever, the small but mighty Pembroke Corgi weighs 28-30 pounds and stands 10-12 inches tall.

This dog is generally easy to train, makes a great watchdog, and is a fun pet to have around.

But they do have some sad health issues including: 

• Intervertebral disc disease
• Hip dysplasia
• Epilepsy
• Degenerative myelopathy

The Pembroke Corgi lives approximately 12-13 years.

Finnish Lapphund

One of the most majestic cattle dog breeds, the Lapphund is actually a reindeer herding dog from north of the Arctic Circle.

There they worked alongside the indigenous Sami People.

This may be the first you’re hearing of the Finnish Lapphund, as he is still a relatively new breed to much of the world. 

In fact, the first Finnish Lapphund litter wasn’t even born in America until 1988!

Despite being fairly unknown to the rest of us, the Lapphund is rather popular in their homeland, where they are still used as a gifted reindeer herder. 

They also make a delightful companion dog.

Also called the “Lappie”, this cattle dog can weigh up to 53 pounds and grow as tall as 21 inches.

Approachable and very compassionate, they have a lush coat suitable for herding livestock through freezing conditions.

Perhaps one of his most unique characteristics is his natural ‘startle reflex’.

The result of years of dodging rogue reindeer antlers.

They can be prone to:

• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia

The Lappie has a lifespan of 12-15 years.

How Can I Find Cattle Dog Breeds?

If you have your sights set on one of the cattle dog breeds, we’re not surprised! 

These are amongst some of the smartest, most loyal dogs you’ll ever have the luck of owning.

The key to finding yourself the happiest, healthiest cattle dog, whether you plan to go through a shelter or a breeder, is to always do plenty of research.

Make sure you are seeking reputable, responsible sources. 

Keep in mind that breeders should always have certificates proving their dogs have been health screened.

When going through a breeder, don’t be afraid to ask questions. 

Including whether there have been any temperamental or health issues with previous litters or parent breeds.

Best Cattle Dogs

The best cattle dog breeds are hard working, healthy and make great companions too. 

But if you are looking for a cattle dog to work then your criteria will differ from someone wanting one as a family pet. 

As general all rounders, our favorite cattle dog breeds include the Shetland Sheepdog, Australian Cattle Dog, Collie and Border Collie. 

Remember to work hard on socialization if you are buying a working dog as a companion.

And to make sure you have lots of time to dedicate to training them throughout their life too. 

References and Further Reading

• James Serpell, The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behavior and Interactions with People
• Kenth Svartberg, Bjorn Forkman. Personality Traits in the Domestic Dog (Canis Familiaris). Applied Animal Behavior Science, Official Journal of the International Society for Applied Ethology.
• Kijas et al. Genome-Wide Analysis of the World’s Sheep Breeds Reveals High Levels of Historic Mixture and Strong Recent Selection. PLOS Biology.
• Charlotte Schwartz, A Kennel Club Book, Australian Cattle Dog, Chapter 9 - History of the Australian Cattle Dog.
• Coates et al. Clinical Characterization of a Familial Degenerative Myelopathy In Pembroke Welsh Corgi Dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.  
• Indrebo et al. A Study of Inherited Short Tail and Taillessness in Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Journal of Small Animal Practice.
• Steinberg et al. Cerebellar Degeneration in Old English Sheepdogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
• Vila et al. Phylogenetic Relationships, Evolution, and Genetic Diversity of the Domestic Dog. Journal of Heredity.