Common Misunderstandings About Herding Breeds

Herding breeds — like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Shelties, and Cattle Dogs — are some of the most intelligent and hardworking dogs out there. Their energy, drive, and problem-solving skills make them incredible companions… but also a bit of a handful for the average household.

As a professional dog trainer specializing in high-drive breeds, I’ve worked with countless families who love their herding dogs dearly but feel overwhelmed by the very traits that make them so special. The truth is: these dogs aren’t “too much.” They’re just misunderstood.

Myth 1: “You have to run them for at least 2 hours every day.”

The truth: Herding breeds do have stamina and thrive on physical activity. Many working dogs spend hours each day moving livestock, but here’s the catch: it’s not the same every day. In their original purpose, activity comes in seasons — intense bursts during busy times, lighter workloads when things are calmer.

For pet herding dogs, what matters isn’t just constant running. What truly makes a difference is balanced activity + mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, training games, trick training, and problem-solving sessions can be just as fulfilling as long runs. In fact, endless exercise without mental outlets can create an even more restless dog.

Myth 2: “Herding breeds are horrible around kids.”

The truth: This is a big one. Herding breeds are often very sensitive and have strong instincts to chase or control movement. When you put that together with the unpredictable energy of children, it can sometimes look like “bad behavior.”

But that doesn’t mean herding dogs are unsafe with kids. With clear structure, safe systems, and supervision, many thrive in family homes. It’s about recognizing stress signals early, guiding interactions thoughtfully, and sometimes adding a little management to prevent misplaced herding behaviors (like nipping at heels or circling kids).

With the right support, herding breeds can be loving and loyal family companions.

Myth 3: “They’re easy to train.”

The truth: Herding breeds are incredibly smart — they pick things up fast. But here’s the flip side: they learn the wrong things just as quickly. Without outlets for their energy and intelligence, they’ll create their own “jobs,” like counter surfing, chasing cars, or barking at every little sound.

And here’s where the misunderstanding really lies: when most people imagine an “easy to train” dog, they picture one who’s calm, regulated, and adaptable to our hectic human world. That takes more than intelligence — it takes balance, fulfillment, and guidance.

Herding breeds aren’t “plug and play” dogs; they thrive when we give them structure, mental work, and meaningful engagement.

The Big Picture

Herding breeds aren’t difficult or unmanageable — they’re just wired differently. The very traits that make them brilliant workers can also make them overwhelming as pets if we don’t channel their energy in the right way.

If you share your life with a herding breed, remember:

• Exercise is important, but mental stimulation is essential.

• They can thrive with kids when given structure and guidance.

• Training them means more than teaching cues — it means helping them learn to regulate in our busy human world.

With patience, clarity, and fulfillment, these dogs can become the most devoted, rewarding companions you’ll ever know.

Ready for Support with Your Herding Dog?

If you’re feeling like your herding breed is “too much” to handle, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. My programs are designed to bring clarity, calm, and connection to life with high-drive dogs.

Reach out today to learn more about how I can help you and your dog thrive together.