The dog a brave defender of the pack – what is the herding instinct in dogs?
The herding instinct in dogs is a phenomenon deeply rooted in their genetics. It can be traced back to a time when dogs were used to guard the flocks of sheep or other animals. Shepherd dogs, as the name suggests, have a natural tendency to protect and guard the ‘herd’ – be it a real herd of animals or a family.
Dogs with herding instincts may exhibit specific behaviours such as circling other animals, controlling their movements and even herding. This is why, even in domestic settings, such dogs may try to ‘herd’ family members, thus playing with children or other pets.
Modern herding dog breeds
Do all dogs have a herding instinct? The answer is: not necessarily. This instinct is most pronounced in certain breeds. Among a large number of shepherd dog breeds, you will find large shepherd dogs, such as the German Shepherd or Belgian Shepherd, as well as medium-sized breeds, such as the border collie or Swiss Shepherd Dog. Among shepherd dogs, you will also find small breeds, such as the welsh corgi pembroke, although they are less numerous.
One question that often arises in the context of herding dogs is: “Are herding dogs dangerous?”. The answer is complicated – although these dogs have a natural need for protection and control, this does not mean that they are aggressive. It is good to understand this before deciding to train with such a dog. Ordinary training treats for a dog of this breed may not be enough.
Proper nutrition for herding dogs – what should you know?
A healthy diet is fundamental to the well-being of any dog, and certainly those that are active and energetic. A dog’s food should be carefully selected according to its age, size and activity level. A well-balanced dog food should contain a high proportion of meat and animal products. When it comes to cereal elements, it is advisable to choose foods with a lower content of these products or to eliminate them from the food altogether. A shepherd dog’s food, on the other hand, may contain adequate amounts of vegetable ingredients, i.e. vegetables and fruit.
However, it is important to remember that our dog is not a leftover eater of our meals, which contain, amongst other things, spices that are harmful to his body. Feeding your pet in this way can contribute to many illnesses. We should also not give our dog any sweets, cakes, chocolate or other sweets, even though he asks for them very much. An essential addition to your dog’s food is all vitamins, as well as calcium and phosphorus. Compensating for their deficiencies is done by giving the right combination of vitamin supplements.
In addition to a proper diet, herding dogs also require good equipment. Dog accessories such as a good quality dog collar, a comfortable dog bed or stimulating toys are essential for the health and happiness of our four-legged friend.
In summary, a herding dog’s longevity, energy and instincts can be transformed into a fantastic partner for active individuals and families. The key, however, is to understand their needs and cater to their natural instincts, so we can create a harmonious relationship with our pets.
Remember that herding dog breeds are extremely diverse and it is always worth finding out more about a particular breed before you decide to adopt or buy. Knowledge is the foundation for creating a happy and healthy environment for your four-legged friend.
