5 fantastic shepherd dogs that make great pets

Intelligent, friendly and easy to train shepherd dogs have become very popular with dog owners in recent times. It's no wonder, who wouldn't want an obedient, friendly, clever dog who loves his family and children?

More and more Border Collies are seen wandering the streets or running around a bit impatiently in the paddock. We understand why the breed appeals to many, but there is no denying that few people are suited to keeping them. Today, we’ve gathered a selection of herding dogs that families, couples and even singles will find easier to manage, and some are also comfortable in an apartment with the right amount of exercise. Here are the best family dogs who once proved their worth as shepherd dogs!

1.) Schipperke

This fiery black beauty is a versatile little dog who is also extremely intelligent, hardy and, best of all, easy to handle and train. Schipperke loves to please his owner, but is reserved around strangers. This makes him a great watchdog and signal dog, and there’s no dog sport he doesn’t excel at. Don’t be fooled by its handsome appearance, the Schipperke is not a lap dog, but can be kept indoors without difficulty if cared for enough.

He is very affectionate with his owner as a shepherd dog and is gentle and attentive with children. Thanks to its confidence, it is not prone to the fear aggression often seen in small dogs. He is a curious dog who needs to be mentally and physically exhausted, but his affection is rewarded a thousandfold.

2. Bernese Mountain Dog

In fact, the idea for our article was inspired by this breed, which was also the subject of our breed description: the shepherd turned perfect family dog. And it has earned this by being extremely loyal and free of aggression. This incredibly friendly dog loves children and has no problem finding common ground with other pets. With the right training, he will behave exactly like his owner towards strangers, so he will have no problems socialising.

As a legacy from his ancestors, the Bernese Mountain Dog appreciates being given tasks to do, but after a good workout he loves to lie down and just enjoy being cared for. He loves to be the centre of attention, but luckily he is never pushy; what’s more, no one will mind, as he is guaranteed to be everyone’s favourite. he is most at home in a garden house. Perhaps the biggest advantage of this breed is that it adapts easily to all kinds of living situations and to the mentality of its owner, making it an ideal companion for almost anyone.

Puppies of the latest Jacks&Bears litter./Photo: Jacks&Bears

3.) Komondor

Yes, indeed, the Komondor deserves a place on this list, as it is an excellent family dog. It’s important to note that it is not a single-owner dog, which allows it to obey all members of the family with equal willingness after proper training. His huge size and confident demeanour may strike fear in many, but this loyal, kind and well-balanced dog will live for his family. He is reserved with strangers and is still, instinctively, an excellent guard dog. However, his socialisation needs attention from a very young age!

He is patient with children, not too demanding on exercise, but more so on space. Keeping him in a garden house is clearly recommended, both because of his size and because he is happy when he can guard his territory and protect his loved ones. It does not need constant attention and cuddling, and his food requirements are only as high as those of a medium-sized dog, despite his large size.

4. Shetland sheepdog

The sheltie is a truly delightful phenomenon, a small dog like the Schipperke, but also not a lap dog. Thanks to its outstanding intelligence and dexterity, this little dog will succeed in any task you set it. He is a fantastic dog sports performer, so we recommend him especially for more active families and owners. Easy to teach and train, he is affectionate, kind and never fails to obey his owner’s commands.

It is important to stress that the Shetland Sheepdog is a very sensitive animal, so loving upbringing is very important. He is a very alert and spirited little dog, who is always up for a bit of fun. This making him not only an ideal companion for children, but also a playmate. He can be timid around strangers, and this needs to be taken into account during socialisation and training.

5. Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Usually, when you mention the Corgi, everyone thinks of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite. Allow us to draw attention to the Cardigan Corgi now, because we feel it has been undeservedly overshadowed. This handsome little dog is also compared to a fox, a comparison that is aptly earned by its snout and lumpy tail. He used to be unbeatable at herding cattle, and he has brought this responsible morality to being a family dog. He can be a vigilant watchdog and his high intelligence makes him very easy to train.

Many consider the Cardigan Wewlsh Corgi to be a more balanced dog than its Pembroke cousin. He is very comfortable around children and adapts easily to almost any situation. It is easy to keep in a garden house or an apartment, if care is taken to keep its energy levels down with long walks and lots of play. He is also easy to socialise with other pets.

Which of these breeds has stolen your heart?