Collie (Scottish Sheepdog)
The owner of luxurious fur and high intelligence, the collie looks more beautiful in reality than in the photo. At first she tended flocks of sheep and guarded peasant children, and then the royals paid attention to her and she turned into a luxury pet. Today, the collie is ready to fulfill any of these roles and is not averse to working as a bloodhound for the police. The peak of popularity of the Scottish Collie began after the release of the film “Lassie”. In Russia there are more than 10 nurseries for breeding Scottish collies. The price of a puppy ranges from 20 to 50 thousand rubles.
Historical fact: a collie once saved a distillery from a fire and immortalized its name on the label of Scotch whiskey.
Description of the breed
Due to Lassie's incredible fame, few in the older generation do not recognize the long-haired collie. Because of this, they are more famous than shorthaired ones.
These variations differ in appearance, but are actually identical in everything except the length of the coat. Modern Scottish Sheepdogs are somewhat larger than their ancestors. Males reach 56-61 cm at the withers, and females 51-56 cm.
They weigh from 18 to 30 kg. Although most of the body is hidden under a thick coat, these are graceful dogs, well proportioned, with no part of the body being conspicuous in size.
The tail is long, the tip is slightly curved upward. When relaxed, the dog holds it low, but raises it when excited.
The shape of the head and muzzle is an important characteristic, as it distinguishes the Scottish Collie from other similar breeds.
It is proportional to the body and quite narrow, in the form of a blunt wedge with a very smooth stop.
The eyes are almond-shaped, medium, sometimes small, set obliquely.
Most dogs are dark in color, but in the blue merle, blue or mixed eyes are acceptable.
The ears are small and narrow, very expressive. When the dog is relaxed, they are directed back and slightly to the side.
When she is attentive, the lower part of the ear rises, the tip tilts freely forward. General impression of the dog: kindness, intelligence and attentiveness.
Collies come in long-haired and short-haired varieties. They have a double coat and a short and dense undercoat.
In the much less common shorthair, the outer coat is short, stiff, dense and smooth. The popular longhair is straight and hard to the touch, very thick.
There is a luxurious mane on the neck, and plumes on the back of the paws and tail. Short and smooth hair only on the face, ears and front of the paws.
Both variations come in three colors: sable (shades of light gold to dark, or dark sable), tri-color (black with tan markings on the legs and head) and blue merle (silver-blue with black spots and streaks). .
Border Collie
One of the best "shepherdess" and the smartest breed in the world. Border is the dream of any dog owner; she is capable of learning and remembering more than 25 commands on the fly. Works as a shepherd independently, without human intervention. He distinguishes each sheep by smell and knows how to get along with them. What distinguishes them from ordinary collies is their appearance. Borders cannot boast of special beauty and look like ordinary black and white dogs that can be found in any village. The uniqueness of their work can be seen in various show programs, as well as in the film “Babe”. In Russian nurseries, the price of a border collie puppy ranges from 25 to 50 thousand rubles.
Representatives of the breed
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd was developed in the United States in the 1800s by crossing the Pyrenean Shepherd with various collie breeds (Border Collies, Collies, and Smithfield Collies). 27,000 –30,000 rub.
Australian Cattle Dog
This is a muscular and strong, well-built animal with well-developed limbs. The head is massive, on a powerful neck, the ears are erect, fluffy and pointed, the tail is lowered down and its tip is curved. 10 thousand rubles
Australian Kelpie
Kelpies have genetically determined qualities that set them apart from other dogs. The most interesting thing is that they have a very wide viewing angle, which allows maximum visual control of the object of observation and long-term 12-30 thousand rubles
Azores Cattle Dog
Azorean dogs are accustomed to spending their entire lives outdoors and living in apartments and houses is not for them. If there is a large area for movement near the house, and the dog is sufficiently busy with work, then it feels quite good. These dogs are not from 800 to 1200 USD.
Akita Inu
Akita Inu is the calling card of the Land of the Rising Sun. This is the most famous breed in Japan and is considered the oldest in the world. They say that the first dog domesticated by man was Akita Inu. 20-35 thousand rubles per puppy
Alabai
See the article Central Asian Shepherd Dog. The average price for puppies is 19,234 rubles.
Alopekis
The breed originated in Ancient Greece. There is still no detailed information and it is unlikely that we will learn about how this amazing breed of dogs originated. This breed of dog was bred as a universal assistant - hunter, shepherd, watchman.
American White Shepherd (White Swiss Shepherd, White German
The White Swiss Shepherd appeared in Switzerland only in the early 70s. The first representative of this breed in Switzerland was an American male named Lobo, born on March 5, 1966. The descendants of this male were listed in the Swiss Stud Book (LOS). For 10,000 -15,000 rubles.
Bouvier des Ardennes (Bouvier des Ardenne)
The Bouvier de Ardennes is a herding dog. In Belgium, this dog helped shepherds monitor cows, which is why it received the name Ardennes.
Basque Shepherd Dog (euskal artzain txakurra)
Like all shepherds, representatives of this breed are excellent watchdogs. They can also be used when searching for dangerous substances and as a guide.
White Swiss Shepherd
The White Swiss Shepherd traces its history back to German Shepherds. Previously, this breed was called the American-Canadian White Shepherd.. From 300 to 500 US dollars.
Belgian Groenendael
An excellent guard and herding dog. Thanks to its innate protective and guard qualities, the Groenendael is an ideal watchman and protector of the family. 20-25 thousand rubles
Belgian Malinois (Belgian Shepherd)
The Belgian Malinois breed was developed in the century before last in Belgium. This is an excellent companion dog, guard dog and farm assistant.
Bergamasco (Bergamos Shepherd)
Bergamascos are herding dogs. They work with the herd with pleasure and are not afraid of frost, rain or heat. These dogs have excellent hearing and sense of smell. Some flock owners claim that dogs know every sheep in the flock by smell and can always buy 15-20 thousand rubles.
Bobtail (Old English Sheepdog)
The Old English Sheepdog or Bobtail appeared as a result of crossing the South Russian Shepherd and the Briard. From 1000 to 1500 US dollars
Boxer (German Boxer)
The Boxer is a very popular sporting and working dog. Representatives of this breed are used for police work, military service, as bodyguards and guard dogs. Also, thanks to the poise and intelligence of boxers, these dogs are used as dogs for 5-30 thousand rubles.
Border Collie (Border Collie)
Today, the Border Collie is a popular agricultural worker, a wonderful companion for the whole family and a talented show dog. The Border Collie is an agile and hardy dog, capable of herding almost any herd. 1-25 thousand rubles
Border Terrier
The Border Terrier was bred in the lowlands of the Cheviot Hills, which separate Scotland and Northumberland in England, and was intended to help farmers keep pests out of their farms. Then they gradually began to use it for corralling and 18-30 thousand rubles
Brazilian Terrier
The Brazilian Terrier is used as a hunter, as a watchman, and as a shepherd of livestock - mainly cows and sheep. In urban conditions - a good companion. All this, as well as the beautiful and contrasting color, make the Brazilian Terrier a universal dog.
Welsh Corgi
The Welsh Corgi is the oldest breed in Great Britain. The appearance of these cute dogs in Britain is surrounded by many legends. According to one of them, peasant children found several puppies in the forest and mistook them for fox cubs, took them home and raised them. 20,000 – 45,000 rubles
Smooth-faced Pyrenean Shepherd
Herding dog, guard dog, rescue dog, drug and explosives detection, sport dog, companion dog. 15-70 thousand rubles
Dalmatian
Dalmatians have the most amazing and memorable color of all existing dog breeds. The first information about white dogs with black spots all over their bodies, similar to modern Dalmatians, dates back to Ancient Greece. from 5 to 20 thousand rubles
Illyrian Shepherd Dog (Sarplaninak / Yugoslav Shepherd Dog)
The Illyrian Shepherd is an excellent shepherd. In this capacity, it is very popular on the Adriatic coast of the former Yugoslavia (in ancient times - Illyria). She can fight wolves on equal terms, tracking them even at night. 20-30 thousand rubles.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest herding breeds in the whole world. It is believed that this dog originates from the Tibetan Great Dane breed. There is evidence that during the Russian-Turkish wars, Caucasian Shepherd dogs were used as guard dogs, and their training also cost from 20 thousand rubles for one puppy.
Kangal (Karabash, Anatolian dog)
The Kangal as a breed has been known since the Middle Ages and originates from Eastern Turkey. This dog is little known throughout the rest of the world, but in its homeland it is famous for its excellent working qualities. The breed is not recognized by the FCI.
Catalan Shepherd (Gos D'atura Catala)
Herding dog, herd dog, guard dog, bloodhound, companion dog. The Catalan Shepherd will be an excellent companion and family friend.
Kelpie
Australian Kelpies have been known since 1870. They originated from crossing collies, brought to Australia in the seventies of the nineteenth century, with the wild dog dingo. The name of the breed was given by a stormy river from the novel by R. L. Stevenson. up to 45 thousand rubles.
Lapland Reindeer Dog (Lapinkorokoira, Lapp Reindeer Dog)
A true cattle beater, this dog has lost most of the hunting instincts of its ancestors. However, this loss turned into a gain in herding qualities. He can fight wolves on equal terms and, of course, conscientiously herd herds of deer.
Catahoula leopard dog
The agile and strong leopard dog is a professional shepherd. To this day, dogs of this breed are used for herding. The leopard dog is used for the difficult work of rounding up pigs and other unruly livestock. Even in large open spaces
Maremmano Abruzzele (Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog)
The Maremmano-Abruzzese Shepherd Dog first appeared in Italy a long time ago. It is not known for certain where exactly this happened, in what part of the country.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds all over the world. In addition, it is also one of the oldest dogs domesticated by humans. The ancestor of the breed is considered to be a male named Horand von Grafrath. 300-800 US dollars
Norwegian Buhund (Norsk Buhund, Norwegian Husky, Norwegian Shepherd)
Herding dog (deer, sheep), guard dog, universal service dog, companion dog. 30-50 thousand rubles
Picardy Sheepdog (Picardie)
This is a skillful, multi-talented shepherd of sheep flocks. Used for guard and protective service. Dogs of this breed are reliable guards for the whole family, livestock and their territory. Suitable for the role of a companion, although no different 45-60 thousand rubles
Pyrenean mountain dog (Great Pyrenees dog)
Shepherd dog, guard dog, companion dog. A formidable watchman and patient nanny for children. 35-80 thousand rubles
Pyrenean Shepherd
Herding dog, guard dog, rescue dog, drug and explosives detection, sport dog, companion dog. 15-70 thousand rubles.
Pitbull
Pit bull terrier means fighting bull terrier. Pit bull terriers are often called pit bulls for short. But this is incorrect, since pit bull means fighting bull.
Puli (Hungarian Water Dog, Mop Dog)
Puli is an ancient breed of dog, the origin of which remains a mystery to this day. Puli is also called the Hungarian Water Dog, because she loves to swim.
Saarloos Wolfhond (Saarlooswolfhund, Saarloos Wolfdog, Wolf
Saarloos wolf dogs are used in Holland and other European countries as guides for the blind, to rescue drowning people, trapped in rubble and in other extreme situations. But the predominance of wolf instincts among representatives of the breed limits its ability to
Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Alabai, Turkmen Wolfhound)
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is one of the most ancient breeds in the world, coming from the Molosser group. Scientists believe that the blood of Tibetan mstiffs, ancient shepherd dogs of nomadic tribes, Mongolian shepherd dogs, and fighting dogs of Mesopotamia flows in the veins of these dogs. From $400 per puppy.
Tuvan Shepherd
The Tuvan Shepherd is a companion dog, an excellent guard, herding and guard dog.
Sharplaninak (Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog)
Sharplaninaki or Yugoslav Shepherd Dogs originate from the high mountain valleys of Yugoslavia and Macedonia (Shar Planin, Stogovo, Mavrovo).
Swedish Vallhund (Wesgotaspitz)
It can be used as a cattle driver, rat catcher, and can also do various farm jobs. A wonderful companion. A good watchman.
Heeler (Australian Cattle Dog)
The breed originated from long-term crossbreeding of various dogs, including dingoes. Thus, a smart but stubborn heeler dog was born, which can cope with the most difficult tasks. In emergency situations, the dog is able to make independent decisions. The Australian Shepherd has a highly developed flock instinct. This is a dog of short stature and strong build, which works harmoniously in the company of its own kind. Take a look at what an Australian Cattle Dog looks like in the photo.
Heelers are distinguished by their unusual, spotted, pockmarked color. The breeding kennel is located in the Moscow region, the price of a puppy with RKF documents is 40-60 thousand rubles.
History of appearance
The first dogs herding sheep appeared several thousand years ago in the Asian highlands. The first shepherd dogs were so strong and tough that they easily drove away not only a pack of wolves, but also bears from sheep. When dogs came to Europe, breeders decided that shepherd dogs should not only be brave and strong, but also beautiful, noticeable among grazing sheep.
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During the Roman Empire, dogs were trained not only to drive flocks of sheep, but also, in the event of a predator attack, to serve as fighters. For this purpose, the Romans crossed successful European breeds with Asian shepherds.
The peak of selection of herding dogs in European countries occurred in the 20th century. The Germans bred the shepherd dog, which became in demand not as a four-legged shepherd, but as a pet for work in the police and army. Russian breeders are proud of the impressive and rugged Eastern European and Southern Russian Shepherd Dogs.
Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd)
Large and strong dogs helped Asians herd flocks of sheep in the mountains and guarded their homes. Alabai is a serious dog with a restive character. He can be an affectionate friend in the family and formidable with uninvited guests. They were once exhibited in dog fights, so the qualities of a warrior and a winner remain in the blood of many puppies. Alabai is a popular breed for guarding objects and country houses. There are more than two hundred breeding nurseries, including abroad. The price of a puppy from the Russian Federation is from 30 thousand rubles, and the pet class is from 10 thousand. rubles They can often be seen in films about the war in Afghanistan, as well as in the cinema of Asian countries. Films with the participation of Alabai: “Okhlamon”, “Boatswain”, “Makar the Pathfinder”.
Bernese Mountain Dog (Bernese Shepherd)
This gorgeous “shepherdess” comes from Switzerland. It is enough to look once at a photo of a Bernese Mountain Dog to fall in love with her once and for all. She received the status of “the most beautiful dog in the world” for her aristocratic appearance and elegant exterior. Local farmers used these dogs to herd and guard ungulates. The Bernese is distinguished by strength, endurance, calm character and obedience. In Russia, breeders offer show-class puppies for sale at a price of 50-70 thousand rubles. Bernese dogs love to appear in video clips and films, with their participation you can watch films: “Happy Together”, “Hello Fools”, “Equilibrium”, “Everyone is Crazy About Mary”, “Shaggy Special Forces”, “Sacred Cause”, “ Return of Mukhtar."
Rules for choosing a puppy
Shepherds are one of the most convenient dogs to care for and maintain; they are not capricious, hardy, and smart. But when choosing a puppy, you should take into account some nuances so that there are no problems later:
- If a farmer needs a pet to protect sheep, then you can buy a cheap pet-category puppy (companion). If you want your dog to participate in exhibitions, you will have to pay a considerable amount for a show-category puppy.
- Herding dogs need freedom and regular exercise. You should not buy a shepherd for a homebody or a careerist. A shepherd is not a sofa dog; it needs to be walked twice a day for 2 hours.
- You should choose a puppy from a reputable nursery, and not from your own hands.
- The seller must provide the buyer with a veterinary passport with health and vaccination records, as well as a document confirming pedigree.
- When purchasing, you need to carefully observe the puppies offered. The chosen animal should not be intimidated or aggressive. You can clap your hands above the puppy’s head; if he gets scared, starts barking angrily, or tries to hide, then his mental state is in trouble.
If it is not possible to provide the shepherd dog with regular walking and proper living conditions, then it is better to pay attention to other breeds that are less in need of attention and physical activity.
Welsh Corgi
Outwardly, they look like funny and cute dogs and it is difficult to imagine that Welsh Corgis are shepherds and shepherds. They are the smallest representatives of this class. They are distinguished by their flexible character, silent, intelligent, hardy and efficient. Being small in stature, they easily pass under sheep and bite their legs, driving them into a circle. Besides their role as a shepherd, they are good companions for people. Welsh Corgis have a cheerful disposition and are active in games. You can buy such a funny pet at a price from 25 to 50 thousand rubles, depending on the pedigree of the regalia. The films “A Dog’s Life” and “Lost Puppy” were filmed with the participation of Welsh Corgis.
Bullets
Hungarian by birth, owner of an incredible hairstyle. Puli is overgrown with long hair that curls into strands. Because of her disheveled appearance, she is called a “mop.” She does an excellent job as a shepherd, knows how to guard the house and play with children. "The Hungarian Shepherdess" is smart, but a little stubborn. He has excellent sense of smell and sharp eyesight, despite the fact that his eyes are not visible from under his bangs. A few nurseries and breeders in the Russian Federation offer bullets for sale at a price of 40-50 thousand rubles.
Benefits of herding dog breeds
Shepherd dogs are valued all over the world because they have many advantages:
- beautiful appearance, harmonious physique;
- physical strength, developed muscles;
- ability to cope with high physical activity;
- luxurious wool with a dense undercoat, which helps to survive in high mountains and harsh climatic conditions;
- discipline due to lack of hunting instinct;
- developed guard skills, distrust of strangers, readiness to attack an ill-wisher;
- endless devotion to the owner.
Moody
Another Hungarian breed of herding dogs with admixtures of German blood. Moody is distinguished by excessive activity and excellent memory. It is used as a herd dog, watchman and hunter, who copes with all tasks perfectly. Communication with a person comes first for her. She is very affectionate, friendly and sociable. Ready to shepherd everyone at all times, including pets and children. You can buy a Mudi puppy at the Samolla kennel (St. Petersburg). The cost of a show category pet is 50 thousand rubles, the pet class costs half as much.
South Russian Shepherd
A white, shaggy giant with a kind soul. The breed originated from the crossing of shepherds and greyhounds. The South Russian Shepherd is endowed with the qualities of a brave shepherd, a wise guard and knows how to perform guard duty. Despite the appearance of a “shaggy bumpkin,” she is very fast and dexterous, affectionate and smart. During the work of the shepherd, she merges with the flock of sheep, because it is difficult to distinguish them by the composition and color of their wool. The price of a South Russian Shepherd puppy is from 15 to 30 thousand rubles. Cheaper offers do not guarantee the purebred of the animal.
Portuguese Shepherd
The Portuguese Shepherd has a thick, curly coat that gives it the appearance of a teddy bear. enhances the analogy and the color of the dog, which varies between brown and black shades. The Portuguese are quite large. Their height reaches 55 cm, weight - 25 kg.
The shaggy shepherd is inquisitive, devoted to its owner, and distrustful of strangers. She will not bark a lot, in most situations she will remain calm and reasonable. A dog, like a collie, requires careful grooming. Otherwise, the cover falls off and is taken with cleavers. The Portuguese have a sharp mind, are friendly, and hardworking, which is why they are used in security companies, despite the labor-intensive nature of their care.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
A descendant of mountain wolves, she does an excellent job as a shepherd. It is often chosen to protect serious objects, including the state border. Hardy, smart, brave and determined. Many people consider Caucasian Shepherd dogs to be vicious, as they have previously participated in dog fights, however, with proper upbringing and training, they grow into kind and obedient pets, family protectors and home guards. “Caucasians” can be allowed into the territory, but will never be released from it without the owner’s order, so it is not worth seeking close contact with them unless necessary. The price of a puppy varies from 15 to 45 thousand rubles and depends on the pedigree line. Films featuring Caucasian dogs: “Loma the Forgotten Friend”, “The Pig Farmer and the Shepherd”, “When the Cossacks Cry”.
Bobtail
The shaggy English Bobtail is a friend to sheep and a threat to wolves. Many times he emerged victorious from a fight with a gray predator. In ordinary life, bobtails are not aggressive and have become favorite pets of many families. Their shepherd service is a thing of the distant past, but they have not lost their instinct and are ready to look after all family members around the clock. “Shaggy nannies” have a special affection for children and will never offend them. The breed is rare, the price of a puppy reaches $3000. Nurseries are located in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Smolensk, Yekaterinburg. Bobtail is a screen star, he is often featured in food commercials, and the films “The Taming of the Shrew” and “Cats and Dogs” were filmed with his participation.
In fact, there are many more herding dogs in the world. Almost every corner of the globe where there is a need to herd herds has its own breed. France, Germany, Portugal, Romania, Czechoslovakia, Italy, Belgium, Ireland - they all boast their own “shepherds”. In Australia and Scotland alone there are about five varieties. They all have one quality in common - they are incredibly devoted to people.
Peculiarities
All representatives of this group have the following common features:
- medium size, proportional build;
- significant endurance, the presence of developed muscles - for long-term stress;
- thick fur, undercoat – protection from all weather conditions;
- poorly developed hunter instinct;
- excellent qualities of a security guard, distrust of strangers. When the need arises, the dog begins to chase the animal;
- boundless courage, bravery;
- devotion to his master.
Currently, the shepherd dog, the shepherd dog, is especially popular, as it has amazing guarding qualities, magnificent appearance and many other excellent characteristics.
These dogs can do a variety of jobs. They do not get tired, for this reason they need exercise and activity. Also, representatives of this group get along well with small children, so they can be kept in a private house where there is a baby.
Naturally, it is undesirable to leave a child alone with a dog, since these dogs are medium and even large in size. During play, a pet may accidentally push a child. Moreover, all herding and cattle dogs presented in this section have a large number of positive qualities and advantages.
