{"id":15965,"date":"2021-07-23T09:44:53","date_gmt":"2021-07-23T15:44:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/outwardhound.com\/furtropolis\/?p=15965"},"modified":"2022-05-23T07:43:09","modified_gmt":"2022-05-23T13:43:09","slug":"toys-for-herding-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/outwardhound.com\/furtropolis\/product\/toys-for-herding-dogs","title":{"rendered":"The 11 Best Dog Toys for Herding Dogs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

What do border collies, Australian shepherds, corgis, and sheepdogs have in common besides four paws and a tail? They\u2019re all herding dogs. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As their name implies, herding dogs have natural instincts to herd. Bred for farm work, they\u2019re high-energy and smart dogs. They come in all shapes and sizes, from small dogs like corgis to extra large sheepdogs like Anatolian shepherds. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have the right environment for them, herding breeds can make great pets. Just don\u2019t expect them to sleep all day and laze around.  <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re considering a herding dog breed (or mix) as a pet, it\u2019s good to understand their needs and temperament. These are not the type of dogs to thrive in a small city apartment. They need room to run and activities for mental stimulation<\/a>. Otherwise, they\u2019ll create their own \u201cfun,\u201d which could mean turning your couch into a chew toy. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, while they can make great family pets, herding breeds have a reputation for herding young children, which is something to consider. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, you\u2019ll discover the key characteristics of herding breeds and the best dog toys for playtime to keep them happy. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Characteristics of Herding Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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If you\u2019ve ever watched one of those sheep herding demonstrations, then you\u2019ve seen the shaggy black and white border collie zigzag through the field as they round up the sheep to move them from pasture to barn.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The dogs are whip-smart, fast, and agile. According to <\/span>Encyclopedia Brittanica<\/span><\/a>, they \u201cpossess a hypnotic stare used to direct herds.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s true that they crouch down and stare at the sheep. Then, depending on whistles or other signals from the human sheepherder, they change direction and run, nipping at the heels of the sheep to get them to move. If you have a border collie, one of their natural instincts is to stare at you. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other herding breeds include corgis, collies, sheepdogs, German shepherds, and more. Generally, they\u2019re smart, active, and happy breeds who can make excellent pets if you have the right lifestyle for them. They need adequate exercise to match their age and energy levels. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Typical characteristics of herding dog breeds: <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n