06/06/2026
Herding behaviour isn’t just seen around livestock 🐑
Breeds like German Shepherds are genetically wired to control movement, which is why you’ll often see circling, chasing, blocking, and directing other dogs during social interactions. To many owners it can look like play, but it’s actually instinct-driven behaviour.
Without proper structure and guidance, herding can become obsessive, over-aroused, or controlling — especially in high-drive working breeds. Understanding breed genetics is key to understanding behaviour.