This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Massachusetts. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.
#23 in United States, #1 in Massachusetts, #1 in Worcester
Worcester
Our goal at GBP is to make rescuing a dog stress free and interactive, while also setting our adopters up for success by thoughtfully placing the dogs we are adopting out. During the application process, our goal is to communicate and educate each person we talk to, so that when you find your perfect match and are ready to bring them home, you are prepared and ready for the next few weeks to come! We will continue to provide thoughtful advice and emotional assistance throughout the lifetime of each GBP adoption.
"I adopted my dog, Ricky, through Gals Best Pals 5 months ago. It was an incredibly smooth process, and I..."
— alyssa c.
Adoptee
"Love the people at GBP and the consideration they take in pulling dogs and choosing homes for them."
— shawna d.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#31 in United States, #2 in Massachusetts, #1 in Boston
Boston
LHK9 is a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit all-breed dog rescue based in Massachusetts. We are dedicated to saving abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs from high-kill shelters in Central Arkansas and beyond. Though our rescue efforts are focused in the Central Arkansas area, we also serve as a resource for local dog surrenders, shelters, and special rescue efforts in other areas. We don't discriminate on the basis of age, pre-existing medical conditions, or breed, because every dog deserves to know love. As the literal ‚'last hope' of the dogs we serve, our southern fosters pull dogs and puppies from partner shelters in Arkansas. While in foster, each dog receives love, care, and medical treatment, then receives a health clearance and transports to New England. After a mandatory 48-hour quarantine stay and an additional health clearance, each dog is picked up and fostered by a northern foster family who serves as a gateway to his/her adoptive home, affectionately known as a FURever home.
"Last Hope really lives their mission of not discriminating on the basis of age, pre-existing, medical conditions, or breed."
— amanda c.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"They are a solid group of volunteers & help dogs in collaborative way"
— kristine a.
Volunteer / foster
#36 in United States, #3 in Massachusetts, #2 in Boston
Boston
Buddy & Friends Animal Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization based in Pembroke, MA. We are NOT a shelter facility and rely solely on the backbone of our rescue which is fosters and volunteers.
"Buddy and Friends goes above and beyond to save so many pups. We are a foster family and..."
— lisa t.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"Amazing rescue who connected me with the best boy"
— morgan e.
Adoptee
#56 in United States, #4 in Massachusetts, #3 in Boston
Boston
The Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts (APCSM) is a 501(c)(3) education and outreach animal shelter serving Plymouth, Norfolk, and Bristol counties. Since 2009, we have placed over 10,000 animals into forever homes. Our Mission is to operate a managed admission animal care and adoption facility, with focus on prevention of cruelty to animals, education and outreach. The APCSM offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year and we encourage animal lovers of all ages to participate!
"I enjoy all the events and activities that the APCSM has to offer! These events directly impact the lives of..."
— stephanie v.
Volunteer / foster, Fan
"My son and I went almost 5 years ago to look at cats, we were looking a a particular one...."
— kimberly n.
Adoptee, Supporter
#62 in United States, #5 in Massachusetts, #4 in Boston
Boston
Ruff Tales Rescue is a dog rescue operating in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. We are dedicated to saving the lives of abandoned dogs and redirecting them to stable, loving environments that serve as their forever home or the bridge to their forever home. Ruff Tales rescues dogs from shelters in southern states, where they are at risk for euthanasia due to significant overpopulation. Before meeting us, these dogs have often been neglected, abused, or abandoned. Once pulled from the shelters, our dogs are fostered locally before moving to their northern fosters when they are ready for adoption.
"Ruff Tales is the best!"
— colleen m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"RTR is AMAZING! They provide excellent care to their dogs and excellent service to their clients. I’ve adopted two beautiful..."
— jarryd g.
Adoptee
#96 in United States, #6 in Massachusetts, #5 in Boston
Boston
Shultz's Guest House is a 501c3 dog rescue shelter located on 200 private acres in Dedham, MA. We offer a secure haven for dogs on their journey to finding the loving forever homes they deserve. Enveloped by lush forests and serene ponds alongside the Charles River, these pups enjoy a peaceful and picturesque environment while receiving lots of love and care from our amazing volunteers.
"Wonderful rescues! Fighting the good fight!"
— dawn c.
Supporter
"❤️"
— monika c.
Supporter
#96 in United States, #6 in Massachusetts, #2 in Worcester
Worcester
Great Dog Rescue New England (GDRNE) is a 501(C)(3) non-profit, shelterless, all-breed rescue group headquartered in Massachusetts. Our group is comprised of volunteers from all over New England who love dogs and want to help those that end up homeless through no fault of their own. Loyal and loving dogs turn up every day in New England and Southern shelters, as owners turn them in or they're found roaming the streets after being dumped. To the best of our abilities, we evaluate all of our Great Dogs temperament and suitability for living with other dogs, cats, and children. A dog's health is checked, and we make sure they are up-to-date on all shots and are spayed or neutered. Then, we place them in loving foster homes until they find their very own family. Our goal is to meet the needs of each dog as an individual and to assure proper placement in a loving forever home.
"As an adopter and a volunteer, I've been able to see how much work the rescue does to find a..."
— wendi h.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Great dog is where I rescued my girl"
— amanda t.
Adoptee
#96 in United States, #6 in Massachusetts, #5 in Boston
Boston
Sweet Paws Rescue (SPR) is a registered non-profit animal rescue based in Massachusetts. We are a grassroots, boots-on-the-ground, shelterless, foster-based, and volunteer-powered organization. We primarily work within two of the poorest counties in Mississippi and Alabama and since 2011, we have rescued close to 22,000 puppies, dogs, kittens, and cats that would not have a chance at life otherwise. We are also a New England resource for the abandoned and displaced, and animals seized in cruelty cases within our home state.
"My mom and some others I know have adopted through sweet paws. They all had great experiences. We love to..."
— christl n.
Adoptee, Supporter
"Sweet Paws is a fully volunteer/rescue based organization who truly cares for every single animal that comes into their care...."
— bridget k.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#99 in United States, #7 in Massachusetts, #6 in Boston
#2 in greyhound
Greyhound
Boston
Greyhound Friends is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and dog adoption shelter based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1983, we are dedicated to placing greyhounds and other dogs in responsible, loving adoptive homes, as well as educating the public about the greyhound breed and generally promoting animal welfare through educational & outreach programs.
"So happy to see their continued work all these years later after adopting our first grey!"
— jen c.
Adoptee
#99 in United States, #7 in Massachusetts, #1 in Springfield
Springfield
At The Dog House, our mission is to pave the way for dogs in need to find their forever homes. Our furry residents boast a multitude of backgrounds some have been entrusted to us by previous owners, while others have been rescued from various shelters. We take a tailored approach to each dog's journey, taking the time to intimately grasp their distinct personalities, strengths, and areas with potential. This comprehensive process empowers us to thoughtfully pair them with compatible forever homes, ensuring a harmonious and enduring companionship. By investing in the uniqueness of each dog, we're scripting narratives of heartwarming transformations and the joy of a new beginning in the embrace of a loving family.
"I have donated money to this shelter, mainly because of the devotion that Dalis gives to her shelter. Her life..."
— susan s.
Supporter, Fan
#99 in United States, #7 in Massachusetts, #6 in Boston
Boston
We may be the new rescue in town, but we are not new to rescue. We are seasoned and we are committed. Established in late 2019, we have a core leadership and consulting team with decades of combined rescue, corporate, and dog behavior experience. We are in the business of second chances. In addition to being a resource for local dogs, Rescue Inc. homes the displaced and abandoned dogs from the rural south that would not have chance at life otherwise. We partner with organizations in Mississippi, Alabama, and Massachusetts, that enhance the human-animal bond, and improve the well-being of an at-risk canine population. As a licensed and registered 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on your tax-deductible donations to support our rescue efforts. Every dollar is put to work supporting our mission to provide options for animals when there are none.
"I first became part of the Rescue, Inc. family in early 2020 after which I fostered multiple “difficult” dogs and..."
— caitlin a.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts, #2 in Springfield
Springfield
Second Chance Animal Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded in 1999. Second Chance began as an animal shelter and grew to help more pets in need. Today Second Chance operates Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester providing access to the highest-quality veterinary care for all. Subsidized rates are provided to underserved communities to ensure access to care for all pets in need. Last year Second Chance helped over 49,000 pets live better lives through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community & educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. Second Chance is a 501c3 tax exempt organization EIN: 04-3490671
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts
Jet Wag helps rescues and shelters in heavily-burdened areas place at-risk adoptable dogs and cats with loving families.
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts
New England Border Collie Rescue, Inc. (NEBCR) is a network of volunteers working to find homes for Border Collies in need within the Northeast US. Our dogs are all fostered in home environments, and we do not operate a central facility/shelter. NEBCR assists dogs in need regardless of age or health concerns. New England Border Collie Rescue originated as a group of eight concerned volunteers, led by Carole Presberg, in 1999 to help this special breed. Incorporated as a non-profit organization in 2000, we have spent 20 years rescuing dogs, educating the public, and assisting owners about living with this quirky breed. Our efforts include staffing booths at festivals, hosting events, and assisting owners with referrals to trainers, and new activities to try in their area.
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts, #7 in Boston
Boston
Today we continue to make the rescue of local cats and dogs our first priority. Many of our animals arrive via owner surrender or from local overburdened animal control agencies, humane societies, and rescue groups. Due to effective spay and neuter in New England, we are also able to take in and find homes for animals from other areas of the country and beyond that are struggling with animal overpopulation issues.
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts, #7 in Boston
Boston
For 125 years, The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) has responded to the needs of animals and the people who care about them. In fact, we are often the first to respond. With over 1,200 dedicated volunteers and 100 staff members, ARL lends unwavering support to local animals, families, and neighborhoods. We provide outstanding veterinary care, adoption, and field services. We also confront the root causes of animal cruelty and neglect through special police investigation and advocacy aimed at strengthening the laws that protect animals.
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts, #7 in Boston
#26 in pit Bull
Pit Bull
Boston
PittieLove Rescue Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Massachusetts. We are an all-volunteer, foster-home-based rescue dedicated to the care, understanding, and adoption of pit bull type dogs. PittieLove's primary goal is to ensure that our rescued dogs will never again suffer from abuse or neglect. We work diligently to carefully place them into loving homes where, for all of their remaining years, they will experience the affection and kindness that has been so sorely absent from their lives.
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts, #7 in Boston
Boston
Our group came together after years of volunteering and life-long, deep love and respect for animals. Each of us has had a strong connection with animals since early childhood. We see animals as beautiful, sentient beings, who are capable of unconditional love and acceptance. We believe that animals can feel and have complex experiences, just like humans. We also believe that every animal deserves respect and kindness, no matter where they are located. To us, a life is a life. Big Little Life Animal Rescue is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, relying solely on donations to continue its work. We are a group of animal lovers, based in MA, NY, ME, and PA. All of us are professionals, with full-time jobs, families, and pets, united by our love and commitment to animals. We do not get paid. You give $5, they get $5. Period.
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts, #7 in Boston
Boston
The purpose of the Lowell Humane Society shall be to provide shelter, prevent cruelty to animals, and advocate for their welfare. Through humane education, the Society strives to enlighten the public with the goal of improving the quality of life for animals and people.
#100 in United States, #8 in Massachusetts, #7 in Boston
Boston
uincy Animal Shelter is primarily a volunteer-run organization. The shelter relies completely on our volunteers and the community for support. Incorporated in November 1999 as a non-profit Massachusetts charity, we are also a recognized charity under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Service code. Since 1999, Quincy Animal Shelter has placed more than 7,500 cats and dogs into loving homes throughout New England. We are committed to finding the right home for every adoptable animal in our care. Every animal receives age-appropriate vaccinations, is spayed or neutered and micro-chipped before being placed in its forever home. Delivering this type of care involves many volunteers, an active and dedicated management, and a lot of money. Our annual budget runs approximately $250,000 in order to provide services to the animals in our care and serve the continuous needs of our growing community. Please visit our Volunteer and Wish List pages to find out about ways you can help. As a “no kill” shelter, we make every effort to find the right home for every adoptable animal in our care. This means we exercise the same ethical and humane treatment of animals in our facility that you would for your own family feline or canine friend. Our capacity at the shelter is limited to a maximum of 12 dogs and 15 to 25 cats, depending on ages and condition of the cats. Our dream is to eventually find a larger facility so that we can continue our mission on a larger scale and serve the continuous needs of the community and the animals.
LHK9 is a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit all-breed dog rescue based in Massachusetts. We are dedicated to saving abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs from high-kill shelters in Central Arkansas and beyond. Though our rescue efforts are focused in the Central Arkansas area, we also serve as a resource for local dog surrenders, shelters, and special rescue efforts in other areas. We don't discriminate on the basis of age, pre-existing medical conditions, or breed, because every dog deserves to know love. As the literal ‚'last hope' of the dogs we serve, our southern fosters pull dogs and puppies from partner shelters in Arkansas. While in foster, each dog receives love, care, and medical treatment, then receives a health clearance and transports to New England. After a mandatory 48-hour quarantine stay and an additional health clearance, each dog is picked up and fostered by a northern foster family who serves as a gateway to his/her adoptive home, affectionately known as a FURever home.
Buddy & Friends Animal Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization based in Pembroke, MA. We are NOT a shelter facility and rely solely on the backbone of our rescue which is fosters and volunteers.
The Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts (APCSM) is a 501(c)(3) education and outreach animal shelter serving Plymouth, Norfolk, and Bristol counties. Since 2009, we have placed over 10,000 animals into forever homes. Our Mission is to operate a managed admission animal care and adoption facility, with focus on prevention of cruelty to animals, education and outreach. The APCSM offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year and we encourage animal lovers of all ages to participate!
At The Dog House, our mission is to pave the way for dogs in need to find their forever homes. Our furry residents boast a multitude of backgrounds some have been entrusted to us by previous owners, while others have been rescued from various shelters. We take a tailored approach to each dog's journey, taking the time to intimately grasp their distinct personalities, strengths, and areas with potential. This comprehensive process empowers us to thoughtfully pair them with compatible forever homes, ensuring a harmonious and enduring companionship. By investing in the uniqueness of each dog, we're scripting narratives of heartwarming transformations and the joy of a new beginning in the embrace of a loving family.
Second Chance Animal Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded in 1999. Second Chance began as an animal shelter and grew to help more pets in need. Today Second Chance operates Community Veterinary Hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield, and Worcester providing access to the highest-quality veterinary care for all. Subsidized rates are provided to underserved communities to ensure access to care for all pets in need. Last year Second Chance helped over 49,000 pets live better lives through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community & educational outreach programs, training, and a pet food pantry. Second Chance is a 501c3 tax exempt organization EIN: 04-3490671
Dakin Humane Society is a 501 (c) (3) community-supported animal welfare organization that provides shelter, medical care, and spay/neuter services to more than 20,000 animals each year. Since its inception in 1969, Dakin has become one of the most recognized nonprofit organizations in the Pioneer Valley and a national leader in animal welfare.
Our goal at GBP is to make rescuing a dog stress free and interactive, while also setting our adopters up for success by thoughtfully placing the dogs we are adopting out. During the application process, our goal is to communicate and educate each person we talk to, so that when you find your perfect match and are ready to bring them home, you are prepared and ready for the next few weeks to come! We will continue to provide thoughtful advice and emotional assistance throughout the lifetime of each GBP adoption.
Great Dog Rescue New England (GDRNE) is a 501(C)(3) non-profit, shelterless, all-breed rescue group headquartered in Massachusetts. Our group is comprised of volunteers from all over New England who love dogs and want to help those that end up homeless through no fault of their own. Loyal and loving dogs turn up every day in New England and Southern shelters, as owners turn them in or they're found roaming the streets after being dumped. To the best of our abilities, we evaluate all of our Great Dogs temperament and suitability for living with other dogs, cats, and children. A dog's health is checked, and we make sure they are up-to-date on all shots and are spayed or neutered. Then, we place them in loving foster homes until they find their very own family. Our goal is to meet the needs of each dog as an individual and to assure proper placement in a loving forever home.
Welcome to the 2024 Massachusetts Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Massachusetts chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Massachusetts dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
Here is our FAQ PAGE : https://galsbestpal.com/faq/
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.
Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.
Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.