The Hound Group information on DigitalDog is sponsored by Barklope.com, the ideal source for the hottest in designer dog beds, dog gear, toys, collars and leashes!

Originally the companions and helpers to shepherds, the Herding dogs were responsible for the management and movement of virtually every possible livestock.  Possessed with happy temperaments and notable intelligence, they still regularly rank among the canine stars where athleticism and cleverness come to bear.  As a group, they can be more vocal than some others and mouthiness (especially among breeds who worked by "gripping" or biting their charges) needs to be watched for, otherwise, many breeds here are fabulous companions to the novice and experienced trainer alike.