Everything you need to know before adopting a sheepdog

Sheepdog: its name does not give rise to many doubts, but many people mistakenly believe that the sheepdog is a breed, when it is a classification based on the function performed by these animals. Wikipedia lists more than 60 different breeds that fall into the category of sheepdogs.

What is the character of sheepdogs like?

Although each breed has its own particular characteristics, both physical and in character, sheepdogs share some traits: they are very affectionate and intelligent, extremely agile and with a great ability to learn new things and solve unexpected situations.

For centuries, the role of sheepdogs has been to help humans to control or guide herds of sheep, cows, goats… and to protect them from attack by predators. The figure of the shepherd dog is inseparable from the shepherd man, whom he undoubtedly also protects, as well as keeping him company. 

It is precisely the gentle and protective nature of the shepherd dog that makes him the perfect dog for families and households with children. He will always make sure everything is all right, will be alert when he detects danger and will give cuddles and affection to all members of the family.

What are the main sheepdog breeds?

If you’ve already decided to adopt a sheepdog, you may be wondering which breed is best for you. That’s why we’re going to take a look at the most common sheepdog breeds:

• Belgian Shepherd: It is a breed with four different varieties. As well as being perfect trackers and watchers, they can be super affectionate and will always be open to cuddles and affection.
• Carpathian Shepherd: Loyal, brave and self-sacrificing. These are three adjectives that perfectly define this breed, as well as being a very restless dog that needs to have constant physical activity.
• Border Collie: It is a medium-sized dog whose great intelligence and agility stand out, so it needs open spaces and to be in constant activity.
• Pyrenean Shepherd: The Pyrenean Shepherd is a very nervous dog with a somewhat shy and sometimes surly personality, although with his family he is quite the opposite.
• Pyrenean Mountain Dog: Another of the Pyrenean breeds, one of the largest in the world. He can reach an average of 60 kg and although he is very affectionate, he is also a bit of a brute, due to the fact that he does not control his strength and weight.
• Australian Sheepdog: One of the main characteristics of this breed is how loyal he is to his family… and how distrustful he is with people he doesn’t know. He is also very patient, which is why he is often used to work with children who have special needs.
• German Shepherd: Without any doubt, the German Shepherd is one of the breeds with a better physical condition and a greater ability to concentrate.
• Romanian Mioritza Shepherd: This is another of the largest breeds in existence, but despite their size, they are very obedient and disciplined dogs.

And if you want to know more about how to choose the best dog for you, do not miss our post Why is it important to consider your lifestyle when adopting a dog?

How to take care of a sheepdog?

Like all dogs and pets, sheepdogs need care and attention to grow up healthy and happy and to live a healthy life. 

The ideal food for sheepdogs. Depending on their age, weight, size and physical condition, your sheepdog will need one type of food or another. Find out which is the most suitable for him in the Picart’s nutritional search engine.

Hygiene and health. A monthly bath, daily brushing, teeth and ear hygiene… Your dog will be a member of the family and also needs to be hygienic. Not only that, but also a regular veterinary check-up to ensure optimum health.

Physical exercise. Sheepdogs are breeds that need a lot of physical exercise, so you should take them out for a walk 2 to 3 times a day, preferably in open spaces where they can run and jump.

If you have been interested in this article, you will also want to know more about How to understand your dog’s body language in 5 tips.