Herding dogs are often grouped together under the broad term “stock dogs,” but historically and functionally they fall into very different categories. Two of the most commonly confused types are driving (or droving) dogs and tending dogs. While both move livestock, the way they work, the distances they cover, and the instincts they rely on are dramatically different. Driving / Droving Dogs Purpose: Move livestock from one location to another often over long distances. Driving (or droving) dogs were developed to push stock forward. Key Traits of Driving Dogs: Work from behind the livestock, Apply pressure to push animals forward, Often heel or nip stubborn cattle, Cover large distances, Independent, gritty, and resilient. Breeds like the Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Kelpie, and Border Collie. Tending Dogs Purpose: Contain and guard livestock within a designated area. Tending dogs work very differently. Rather than pushing stock from behind, they patrol boundaries and keep animals within invisible lines. Key Traits of Tending Dogs: Work upright and visible, Maintain a boundary rather than create forward motion, Patrol side-to-side along the perimeter, Protective instincts often stronger, Balanced, steady temperament. Breeds such as the Beauceron and German Shepherd.