10 Best Long-Haired Sheep Dog Breeds

Who says working dogs can’t turn heads? Long-haired sheepdog breeds combine beauty, brains, and a whole lot of charm. From the majestic Old English Sheepdog to the small Shetland Sheepdog, these herding breeds are as diverse as they are delightful.

Originally bred to herd sheep and manage other livestock, these dogs are much more than fluffy coats. Known for their intelligence and loyalty, they’ve earned their place as family pets and even contenders for the national dog in some countries.

Their sizes and temperaments vary wildly. Whether you need a strong-willed farmhand or a cuddly couch companion, there’s a sheepdog to suit your lifestyle. Just be prepared for some grooming—those luxurious coats don’t maintain themselves!

Ready to find your match? Let’s dive into the world of long-haired sheepdogs, where function meets fabulous fur!

10 Long-Haired Sheep Dog Breeds

1. Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is an ancient breed that’s as charming as it is hardworking. With a compact size of 17-20 inches tall and weighing around 30-50 pounds, this herding dog is the perfect mix of sturdy and lovable. Its dense, weatherproof coat comes in shades of gray, white, and black, making it a fluffy wonder on the farm.

Designed to herd sheep and protect livestock, this intelligent breed is a quick learner. Early training and mental stimulation keep their strong-willed nature in check. They thrive on tasks and are happiest when herding or engaged in dog sports.

WebMD explains that despite their work ethic, they’re incredibly good-natured and affectionate with family pets and kids. Their playful energy makes them perfect for active families, though they can be shy around strangers without proper socialization. Regular exercise is a must for this energetic, smart companion.

Grooming their thick coat can be a labor of love. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting. Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are not high-maintenance otherwise, making them a fantastic choice for dedicated owners who love their endearing quirks.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	235 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,200–$1,800 annually
Grooming Cost	$50–$100 per session

2. Old English Sheepdog

Meet the Old English Sheepdog, a shaggy-coated giant with a heart of gold. Standing at 21 inches or taller and weighing 60-100 pounds, this breed’s iconic appearance and sweet demeanor have made it a star in families worldwide. Their thick double coat is perfect for rough-faced herding breeds.

Specifically raised as driving dogs for cattle and sheep, this intelligent breed is also great at guarding other animals. Don’t let their size fool you; they’re gentle giants who adore kids and other pets, making them excellent family companions.

Energetic but not hyperactive, they require daily walks and playtime. Their herding instincts remain strong, so you might find them “herding” small children or other dogs in the yard! They also excel in agility and obedience, making them stars in dog sports.

However, their breed’s coat needs commitment. Purina recommends that regular brushing and professional grooming keep their luxurious fur in check. It’s a small price for their loyal companionship and goofy personality.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	235 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,500–$2,500 annually
Grooming Cost	$100–$200 per session

3. Border Collie

The Border Collie is a herding dog superstar, known for its unparalleled intelligence and boundless energy. Standing 18-22 inches tall and weighing 30-55 pounds, they’re lean, agile, and ready for action. Their double coat can be smooth-faced or rough, with patterns ranging from black-and-white to blue merle.

This breed was originally bred to herd livestock and remains one of the most effective herding dog breeds. They thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity, excelling in agility, obedience, and other dog sports. If you’re active, they’ll match your pace every step of the way.

Border Collies are strong-willed but incredibly trainable. Early training is key to ensuring they channel their energy positively. Their good-natured temperament and love for humans make them fantastic family dogs, though they’re best suited for owners with time to engage their busy minds.

Grooming their coat is relatively easy, but their energy demands are high. A perfect day for a Border Collie? Herding sheep, chasing balls, and cuddling with their humans after a busy day.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	250 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,200–$2,000 annually
Grooming Cost	$50–$100 per session

4. Puli

The Puli is a living mop with a personality that’s larger than life! Standing 16-17 inches tall and weighing 25-35 pounds, this Hungarian herding dog is famous for its corded coat, which gives it a unique, ancient breed look. Their coats come in solid black, white, or shades of gray and fawn.

Bred to herd sheep and guard livestock, Pulis is compact and incredibly agile. Don’t let their quirky appearance fool you; they’re strong-willed, intelligent, and excellent watchdogs. Their herding instincts are sharp, and they often bond deeply with their families.

Omlet reveals that energetic and playful, Pulis needs daily exercise and mental stimulation. They’re great for owners who love outdoor adventures and have time to dedicate to their active lifestyles. Early training ensures their spirited nature doesn’t become overwhelming.

The Puli’s corded coat requires specialized grooming but sheds minimally. For owners willing to embrace their unique grooming needs, Pulis offers endless affection, loyalty, and companionship.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	235 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,300–$2,000 annually
Grooming Cost	$150–$300 per session

5. Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie, affectionately called the “Beardie,” is a bouncing ball of energy wrapped in a flowing, shaggy coat. Standing 20-22 inches tall and weighing 45-55 pounds, they’re known for their iconic “beard” and double coat in colors like black, blue, fawn, and brown.

Designed to herd sheep in Scotland, Beardies are natural-born herders with boundless energy. They’re strong-willed, smart, and quick learners, making them great for dog sports like agility and obedience. These traits make early training essential to channel their lively nature.

VCA explains that Beardies are friendly and playful, thriving in homes with kids, other pets, and plenty of space to run. They bond deeply with their families, often acting as clowns to keep everyone entertained. Mental stimulation is just as crucial as physical exercise to keep them happy.

Their breed’s coat requires dedication, with regular brushing needed to prevent tangles. If you’re ready to embrace their high energy and grooming needs, Beardies make wonderful, loyal companions.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	235 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,200–$2,000 annually
Grooming Cost	$100–$200 per session

6. Pyrenean Shepherd

Small yet mighty, the Pyrenean Shepherd is a lesser-known herding dog with a fluffy coat that comes in smooth-faced or rough-faced varieties. They stand 15-21 inches tall, weigh 15-30 pounds, and sport colors like fawn, brindle, and shades of gray or black.

Traditionally used to herd livestock in the Pyrenees mountains, this intelligent breed is energetic, agile, and quick-witted. They excel at herding sheep and dog sports, needing both physical and mental stimulation to thrive. Strong-willed but eager to please, they’re great for experienced owners.

Though cautious with strangers, Pyrenean Shepherds are loyal and affectionate with their families. They’rgood-natureded around kids and other animals when socialized early. Their compact size makes them versatile for both farm and family life.

The breed’s coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, requiring occasional brushing. They’re a great fit for active households that appreciate their spirited personality and unique appearance.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	230 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,100–$1,800 annually
Grooming Cost	$50–$100 per session

7. Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie,” is a pint-sized herding dog with a luxurious double coat. Standing 13-16 inches tall and weighing 15-25 pounds, they’re miniature versions of Collies with striking coats in blue merle, sable, or black.

Historically used for herding livestock in the Shetland Islands, these intelligent, energetic dogs are known for their agility and herding instincts. They’re eager to please, making them one of the most trainable herding dog breeds. Their compact size and sharp minds make them favorites in dog sports.

PetMD reports that Shelties are affectionate and protective, excelling as family pets and excellent watchdogs. They’re playful with kids and good-natured with other animals, though early training ensures they’re confident around strangers.

Their breed’s coat requires regular grooming to stay tangle-free. With the right care and exercise, Shelties brings endless joy, companionship, and intelligence to any household.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	238 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,200–$1,900 annually
Grooming Cost	$75–$150 per session

8. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a versatile working dog that’s as strong as it is smart. Standing 22-26 inches tall and weighing 50-90 pounds, their medium-to-long coat comes in shades like solid black, sable, and brindle, adding to their commanding appearance.

Brought up for herding livestock, this intelligent breed is now used in roles ranging from guard dogs to search-and-rescue. They’re strong-willed, protective, and highly trainable, thriving with early training and plenty of mental stimulation. Their herding instincts make them excellent for both farm and family life.

German Shepherds are great with kids and family pets when socialized early, but they’re naturally wary of strangers. Their loyalty and energy levels make them ideal for active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and dog sports.

Though their grooming needs are moderate, regular brushing helps manage shedding. These smart, energetic, and protective dogs require dedicated owners who appreciate their unmatched versatility and traits.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	238 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,500–$2,500 annually
Grooming Cost	$75–$150 per session

9. Pumi

The Pumi is a curly-coated cutie with a lively personality. Standing 15-18 inches tall and weighing 22-29 pounds, they sport a distinct, fluffy coat in colors like gray, black, or fawn, which gives them an adorable, playful look.

Traditionally used in Hungary to herd livestock, the Pumi is an energetic, intelligent breed with sharp herding instincts. They’re compact and agile, excelling in agility and obedience competitions. Mental stimulation is a must to keep their bright minds engaged.

HPCA notes that Pumis are affectionate, protective, and great with other dogs and kids. Early training and socialization help them adapt well to families and other pets. Their strong-willed nature can make them a handful for first-time owners, but they’re endlessly rewarding companions.

Their curly coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting. If you’re looking for a smart, energetic, and quirky dog that loves attention, the Pumi might just steal your heart.

Metric	Details
Bite Force	235 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,200–$2,000 annually
Grooming Cost	$100–$200 per session

10. Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the “Blue Heeler” or “Red Heeler,” is a compact, energetic dynamo bred for herding cattle in the harsh Australian outback. Standing 17-20 inches tall and weighing 35-50 pounds, this sturdy breed is as tough as they come. Their short, weatherproof coat comes in striking colors like blue, red speckle, and mottled patterns, making them stand out in any crowd.

Originally bred for herding cattle, these intelligent and strong-willed dogs excel in agility, obedience, and dog sports. They’re natural-born problem solvers with herding instincts that extend to other pets and even small children! Early training and mental stimulation are essential to keep their sharp minds occupied.

Australian Cattle Dogs are loyal, and protective, and bond deeply with their families. They thrive in active homes with plenty of outdoor space and tasks to keep them busy. While wary of strangers, they’re affectionate with their loved ones.

With minimal grooming needs, their maintenance is low, but their energy requirements are high. If you’re seeking a smart, strong, and resilient companion with a flair for adventure, this breed will be your perfect sidekick!

Metric	Details
Bite Force	235 PSI
Maintenance Cost	$1,000–$1,500 annually
Grooming Cost	$30–$50 per session

Conclusion

Long-haired sheepdog breeds are more than just pretty faces. Their luscious coats, sharp minds, and herding instincts make them incredible farm dogs and loving family companions. Whether you’re chasing the charm of the Bearded Collie or the agility of the Puli, these breeds offer a delightful blend of elegance and purpose.

Don’t see your match yet? Honorable mentions like the Australian Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, and Bouvier des Flandres bring their unique traits to the table. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi, despite their compact size, are herding powerhouses that shine on farms and in homes alike. And let’s not forget the Great Pyrenees for those seeking protection and loyalty.

With so many dogs to choose from, researching breeds is key. Visit the American Kennel Club for detailed insights on everything from red merle coats to managing hip dysplasia. Whether for herding livestock, guarding the flock, or companionship, there’s a sheepdog for every lifestyle.