Various breeds were developed for specific tasks to help people manage domesticated animals such as cattle and sheep. Herding breeds are the new family dog. Although many people do not realize they actually got a herding breed. Many times these herding genetics can explain and assist in managing some problem behaviors the dogs may have. I highly recommend doing a DNA test on your new dog just to have an idea of what breeds they are. Many times these tests are not 100% accurate but they can provide some insight into behaviors. Today these working dogs are not only herd animals but also are police dogs, rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and more. If you ever wondered why herding dogs herd keep reading.
Why Herding Dogs Herd?
Herding behaviors are modified predatory behavior. Different breeds work in different ways. Australian cattle dogs typically nip at the heels of animals. (Heelers) Corgi’s use a similar fashion to herd as well, more due to their stature. Border Collies get in front of the animals and use strong eye contact to stare the animal down. (Headers)
Basic herding Commands
These commands are indicated by a hand movement, whistle, or voice. There are many variations.
Come-Bye: Go to the left of the stock (clockwise)
Away to me: Right of the stock (counter-clockwise)
Stand: Stop
Steady: Slow Down
Find: Search for Stock
Hold: Keep stock where they are
Walk-up: move in closer to the stock
Herding Dogs as Pets
They make good family dogs and are at their best when they have a job to do. These dogs have been bred as working dogs and need to be active. They retain their herding instincts and may sometimes nip at people’s heels or bump them in an effort to ‘herd’ their family, and may need to be trained not to do so.[1] Their activity level and intelligence make them excellent canine athletes. The Shetland Sheepdog, Rough Collie, Smooth Collie, and Old English Sheepdog are more popular as family companion dogs.
Some popular breeds Families own: Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Catahoula Leopard Dog, German Shepherd, English Sheepdog, Mini Australian Shepherd, Poodle
Signs of Herding Behaviors
If your dog is constantly trying to control your movements, round up the kids while they are playing or move cats around the house, they are displaying herding behavior.
How to Control the Herd in Herding Behaviors
- Stay calm the moment your dog starts pushing you around. Avoid laughing, running away or yelling, because this reinforces the behavior; your dog might think you’re playing a game.
- Leash your dog when you walk with them until you’re confident you’re got their herding behavior under control. The leash will allow you to maintain control over your dog so they can’t take off and start chasing and herding people or animals.
- Enforce obedience training so you can control your dog’s actions. Teach them basic commands such as “sit” and “stay”.
- Provide your dog with other ways to satisfy their urge to herd. Play games, such as fetch and tug. Command your dog to “sit” before throwing the ball when playing fetch. This teaches your dog self-control and satisfies their urge to chase moving things. Tug gives your dog’s mouth a workout and provides them with an outlet to bit and nip.
- Keep your dog busy and entertained so they are less likely to resort to herding. Provide mental stimulation; food stuffed toys and obedience training sessions with rewards. Take your dog on doggie play dates so they meet other people and dogs and can improve their socializing skills. Take your dogs on walks for physical stimulation.
If you are experiencing any problem behaviors, herding or not. Make sure to contact us today.
