This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Minnesota. 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.
#4 in United States, #1 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Emotional Rescue specializes in homeless dogs that need medical care. We rehabilitate the body, mind and soul of dogs that had no one to care for them.
"I follow Emotinal Res. Every day. Shannon does amazing things with medical & special needs animals. She also educates the..."
— charlene f.
Supporter, Fan
"Amazing work, critical in the value chain addressing reservation animal control and supporting tough cases that otherwise would not have..."
— shannon d.
Supporter
#26 in United States, #2 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Warrior Dog rescue is a non-profit organization based in Savage, MN that is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding adoptive homes for dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. We are celebrating our 6th year in rescue and have saved over 3,400 dogs to date. When we reflect on that number we think that each one of those dogs had a foster hero that YES to saving them! We think about all the visits to the vet, the training, the full food bowls, walks, belly rubs, and all the healing that was given to each of them through the love and safety we were able to provide. Knowing that we were able to help them heal and be ready to love their forever family is a blessing beyond compare. Our storybook is filled with all the Warrior Dogs who have come into our lives and forever imprinted on our hearts. The Warrior Dog family continues to save these sweet souls because they all deserve to the know the gift of love and safety. There is still work to be done and by the grace and selflessness of our volunteer and foster teams, along with our generous donors we will continue. There are so many pups even as you read this that are alone and sick, abandoned in kill shelters and on roadsides, living a life filled with fear and abuse. We are steadfast in our commitment to continue to make a difference, one dog at a time.
"We rescued a pup from warrior rescue and she is the best dog ever! Part of the family for..."
— lindsay d.
Adoptee
"I've volunteered at Warrior Dog several times. They have an excellent fenced-in area for the dogs in their care..."
— jacob j.
Volunteer / foster, Fan
#62 in United States, #3 in Minnesota
Since 1992, the Winona Area Humane Society (WAHS) has been dedicated to improving the lives of our community's companion animals by providing humane care to adoptable shelter dogs and cats, and offering public services to pet owners in need of support. Our no-kill animal shelter does not receive municipal or federal funding to carry out our mission. Thanks to fundraising, grants, and generous donations, our passionate hands-on staff & volunteers are able to care for at least 14 dogs and 50 cats at a time, and place an average of 227 cats and dogs in loving forever homes every year.
"The Winona Area Humane Society has a wonderful social media presence. They are able to showcase the animals available for..."
— savannah s.
Fan
"Staff is always excited to help with every successful adoption and remain optimistic with their long term residents. They were..."
— casey k.
Supporter
#66 in United States, #4 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Our Vision is to be a voice for those who are voiceless. We hear them with our hearts and give them a voice. Looking into the eyes of a rescued animal will speak volumes; watching those eyes light up will have an everlasting impact on you and the rescued animals. We aren't a typical rescue as we don't take in dogs and put them in kennels until they're adopted. All dogs we rescue are placed in loving foster homes that teach them to be the best dog they can be. Our journey doesn't end with adoption, either. We are here for you to support you in integrating your new member into your home, cheer new triumphs, and help with struggles. You don't adopt a dog from us. You adopt a family.
"Northern Lakes Rescue is RELENTLESS in their quest to save and give AMAZING lives to dogs. Their support of their..."
— judith y.
Volunteer / foster
"In April 2021 I suddenly and unexpectedly had to say a final goodbye to my dog. I was still..."
— ginger j.
Adoptee
#137 in United States, #5 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Rescued Pets Are Wonderful is a non-profit, no-kill, volunteer animal rescue organization serving the Twin Cities metro area. We are dedicated to rescuing dogs and cats left homeless for whatever reason ‚focusing on the ones with major medical issues or of senior age. These are the ones that are usually overlooked because they are not ‚highly adoptable. They are also the ones that cost the most to the organizations. We believe they are the most in need of help!
"RPAW takes on the most difficult cases that other rescues will often not even consider. Every animal gets a chance..."
— peggy f.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"Rescued Pets Are Wonderful has been in Minnesota since 2004. As it evolved, it became a "medical" rescue for dogs..."
— kathryn g.
Supporter
#146 in United States, #6 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
The Rescue Crew is a Minnesota-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue organization that is 100% volunteer operated and foster-based. The Rescue Crew strives to prevent the unnecessary euthanasia of companion animals by finding them loving forever homes.
"My daughter started fostering with The Rescue Crew first, because her friend’s mom was very involved with the rescue. With..."
— dana g.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"The Rescue Crew brought our wonderful Angela Lansfurry into our lives. With grace, compassion, integrity, and a shoestring budget they..."
— gradylee s.
Adoptee
#153 in United States, #7 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Pet Haven is Minnesota's very first foster-based rescue. We are dedicated to improving the lives of pets and the people who love them by rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs and cats. Every dog and cat lives with a loving foster family until they find families of their own. We provide for all of their needs, high-quality food, the best possible veterinary care, and behavior support for emotional well-being. As individuals, we give the love, compassion, and patience needed to truly change their lives. We are also dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation by supporting spay and neuter efforts, providing resources to people and their pets, and doing the work needed to strengthen the relationships between people and pets, building foundations to last a lifetime.
"The foster program makes it easy to meet and get to know the pets up for adoption. The animals are..."
— annette w.
Supporter
"So easy to work with. Great mentors. Always ready to help out or answer any questions."
— priyanka p.
Volunteer / foster
#157 in United States, #8 in Minnesota
Great Dane
Minneapolis
We serve the animal community by providing foster homes, medical treatment, and behavioral assessments to Great Danes in need of forever homes.
"I have never encountered a more caring, dedicated, and responsive group of folks than the foster community and management at..."
— sybil s.
Volunteer / foster
"This rescue helps many gentle giants find forever homes, 100% volunteers and 15-year anniversary, it shows how with the help..."
— pauline s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#177 in United States, #9 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
All Dog Rescue is an all-volunteer, foster-based rescue group. We work with local shelters, city governments, tribal partners and owner surrenders. All the dogs in our program live in a foster home until they are adopted. Our dogs are fully vetted and spayed/neutered prior to adoption. We commit to our dogs for their lifetime and we will always take our dogs back.
"On a very snowy December evening In 2010 an unexpected little furry gift from my Sister and family showed up..."
— laura m.
Adoptee
"We adopted our pup, Stella, from All Dog Rescue in 2021. I was very impressed by the level of care..."
— sarah k.
Adoptee
#199 in United States, #10 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Our shelter began in 2006 with Cocoa and her 11 marshmallows. We have gone on to save hundreds of animals each year since.
"This shelter is amazing. It process so many animals in the Detroit Lakes area."
— sherrie b.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"Very friendly staff to work with very willing to make accommodation to have a meet up with the fur baby..."
— diane s.
Adoptee
#207 in United States, #11 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
The Bond Between is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that focuses on the bond between humans and animals. We were founded in 2009 as Secondhand Hounds. Since then, we have rescued over 29,000 dogs and cats with the help of thousands of fosters, volunteers, and supporters in our community. Our organization has grown from a rescue to a first-in-its-class animal wellbeing organization... now The Bond Between! We continue to provide safe shelter, proper veterinary care, and daily necessities for animals while working hard to help them build a bond with humans. We also focus on supporting the bonds that already exist between people and pets with our pet food shelf, respite foster care program, and focus on social services. We wake up every morning saying YES to connecting people and animals, caring for them, and helping them fill each other's hearts. You can help support us today by donatin
"The Bond Between rescues so many dogs that would have been overlooked by other rescues, including our dog. She was..."
— heather h.
Adoptee
"Loved their process of adopting! They thoroughly vetted me as an adopter and really care about their animals; they go..."
— megan s.
Adoptee
#235 in United States, #12 in Minnesota
Golden Retriever
Minneapolis
"Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest" (RAGOM) is a non-profit organization based in Minnesota, that specializes in the rescue, fostering, and adoption of Golden Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes. The organization serves the Midwestern region of the United States, including Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and western Wisconsin. RAGOM works to rescue Golden Retrievers from shelters, commercial breeders, and owners who can no longer care for them. They provide necessary medical care, foster homes, and behavioral rehabilitation as needed before finding suitable forever homes through their adoption program. Founded in 1985, Retrieve a Golden of the Midwest has become one of the largest and most well-known Golden Retriever rescue organizations in the United States. Their mission is to rescue and rehome as many Golden Retrievers as possible while also educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of adopting from shelters and rescue organizations.
"Rescue a Golden of the Midwest is an incredible group of volunteers. Not only do they rescue goldens but they..."
— carol g.
Supporter
"RAGOM has a reputation of being a great rescue, but it wasn't until I got to know them that I..."
— cheryl g.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
#266 in United States, #13 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Ruff Start Rescue is an extraordinary foster-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit companion animal rescue that radiates compassion and dedication. Our unwavering mission extends beyond borders, reaching communities throughout Minnesota and the southern states plagued by stray pet overpopulation. We fearlessly rescue the voiceless victims of neglect, abandonment, and despair dogs, cats, ferrets, guinea pigs, rabbits, and many other critters. Every single day, our tireless efforts are propelled by volunteers, fosters, and supporters who unite as a force of unwavering love, saving thousands of lives.
"Wonderful people working to help animals find their forever home!"
— julia o.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Fan
"We have 3 dogs from ruffstart Rescue , we have also fostered 9 other dogs for them . They do..."
— john.leraan.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
#266 in United States, #13 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Formed in 2009, Wags & Whiskers Animal Rescue of MN is a volunteer run 501(c)(3) non-profit animal rescue organization dedicated to saving the lives of homeless animals, and educating the community on responsible pet ownership. Wags & Whiskers has no facility or shelter. Instead, all our animals are housed in foster homes while they await their forever homes. With this approach, our foster parents become familiar with the personalities of his or her foster dog or cat and use this familiarity to match our animals to appropriate homes.
"We adopted our sweet baby boy Cowboy from this rescue. We'll be forever grateful."
— kimberly h.
Adoptee
"This is an amazing group. They brought our rescue all the way from Las Cruces New Mexico. She gave birth..."
— kimberly h.
Adoptee
#266 in United States, #13 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
The Safe House is located in Floyd County, Kentucky and will assist the communities in surrounding counties as well. It will be a safe place to house and care for at-risk homeless pets before they make their way to new lives and families to call their own. Here, animals will receive housing and the care necessary for their physical and emotional well-being. Animals like Truly can't wait another day for your help.
"Safe Hands Rescue provides a safe landing place to animals that have struggled. The animals in their care are carefully..."
— cheryl g.
Supporter, Fan
"Safe Hands Rescue has made a huge difference in my life. After being forced to work from home during the..."
— lynne s.
Volunteer / foster
#266 in United States, #13 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Heading Home K9 Rescue was started in the Spring of 2011. We are a 501c3, non-profit dog rescue. We receive no government support. We have a soft spot for the dogs that others are most likely to pass over: puppy mills, seniors, big black mixed breeds, heartworm positive dogs, and animals who have been injured. We are 100% volunteer-based. We do not have paid staff or board members. All the money we bring in from donations and adoption fees goes directly back to the dogs. We do not have a central facility, all our dogs are fostered in individual foster homes. Because our dogs live in foster homes rather than a shelter, we know them well and are able to make sure that a perfect match is made between the dog and its new home.
"They're amazing!"
— abby g.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"They help out as many as they can but also reach out to other rescues when needing help."
— abby g.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#266 in United States, #13 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Crossroads Animal Shelter was established in 1998 and at that time it was strictly foster based. In 2000, after major fundraising efforts we broke ground for a shelter in Buffalo, Minnesota and opened doors to the public in 2002. We have a lobby/reception area for adoptions and veterinary services. And dog and cat visitation rooms. There is also a Cat Colony room that can accommodate up to 12 cats. It also opens up to an airy "catio" space. Our building can house up to 30 dogs/puppies and 60 cats/kittens. In April 2023 we added veterinary services to the public. We offer affordable, quality spay/neuter services, vaccinations, dental and surgical procedures and other wellness needs. Crossroads is proud of our dedicated team of talented and compassionate animal care technicians, veterinary staff, adoption specialists, volunteers, and rescue partners. The work we do each day is often challenging and we are committed to making informed decisions to provide the best possible care for companion animals based on their individual needs and quality of life. We currently employ a staff of 15. Both Crossroads Animal Shelter and Crossroads Veterinary Clinic are registered 501(c)3 not-for-profit organizations.
"First of all, Thank you to every staff member and volunteer who helped care for Dawson while he searched for a..."
— kerry d.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
"Crossroads is a great shelter with caring, dedicated staff. They also offer low cost veterinary services for the common."
— erica b.
Volunteer / foster
#361 in United States, #18 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, foster-based rescue located in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota that is 100% funded through adoption fees and donations. We are excited for you to join us on this mission to save the lives of dogs in need. We believe every dog deserves to be loved as true members of a family and are committed to fulfilling that dream one dog at a time!
"Amazing rescue and helps all animals"
— jennifer d.
Supporter
#361 in United States, #18 in Minnesota
Corgi, German Shepherd
Minneapolis
FaerieLand Rescue provides essential care and adoption services to German Shepherds and Corgis. We strive to protect and promote these two breeds. FaerieLand Rescue Inc. is a foster-based rescue located in Minnesota. We welcome purebreds and mixes of German Shepherds and Welsh Corgis, including owner-surrendered, abused, neglected and stray dogs, as well as those from animal control. We educate the public on spaying and neutering of dogs and the importance of vaccinations, training and socialization. All dogs at the rescue are evaluated with the goal of rehabilitation and placement in a FUREVER home. Over 400 dogs have been saved since commencing operations.
"There is no perfect way to describe how wonderful Emotional Rescue is. I have never “met” anyone like Shannon. She..."
— martha c.
Supporter
#361 in United States, #18 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Tri-County Humane Society is an independent, nonprofit animal shelter in St. Cloud, Minnesota, providing quality services to people and animals since 1974.
"Great place!"
— julie b.
Fan
Emotional Rescue specializes in homeless dogs that need medical care. We rehabilitate the body, mind and soul of dogs that had no one to care for them.
Warrior Dog rescue is a non-profit organization based in Savage, MN that is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding adoptive homes for dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. We are celebrating our 6th year in rescue and have saved over 3,400 dogs to date. When we reflect on that number we think that each one of those dogs had a foster hero that YES to saving them! We think about all the visits to the vet, the training, the full food bowls, walks, belly rubs, and all the healing that was given to each of them through the love and safety we were able to provide. Knowing that we were able to help them heal and be ready to love their forever family is a blessing beyond compare. Our storybook is filled with all the Warrior Dogs who have come into our lives and forever imprinted on our hearts. The Warrior Dog family continues to save these sweet souls because they all deserve to the know the gift of love and safety. There is still work to be done and by the grace and selflessness of our volunteer and foster teams, along with our generous donors we will continue. There are so many pups even as you read this that are alone and sick, abandoned in kill shelters and on roadsides, living a life filled with fear and abuse. We are steadfast in our commitment to continue to make a difference, one dog at a time.
Our Vision is to be a voice for those who are voiceless. We hear them with our hearts and give them a voice. Looking into the eyes of a rescued animal will speak volumes; watching those eyes light up will have an everlasting impact on you and the rescued animals. We aren't a typical rescue as we don't take in dogs and put them in kennels until they're adopted. All dogs we rescue are placed in loving foster homes that teach them to be the best dog they can be. Our journey doesn't end with adoption, either. We are here for you to support you in integrating your new member into your home, cheer new triumphs, and help with struggles. You don't adopt a dog from us. You adopt a family.
Welcome to the 2024 Minnesota Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Minnesota 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 Minnesota dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
Adopters go through a rigorous pre-screening before meeting a dog and its caregiver. The foster and the dog must also approve the family.
Discover the Jack Russell Terrier, a breed celebrated for its intelligent and affectionate nature. Recognized as a small dog, Jack Russell Terriers have their origins in England, where they were initially bred for fox hunting and vermin control starting in the 19th century.
Discover the Dalmatian, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, trainable, and loyal nature. Recognized as a medium-sized dog, Dalmatians have their origins in Croatia, where they were initially bred for coaching (running along carriages), guarding, and hunting starting in the 16th century.
Discover the Bernese Mountain Dog, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, loyal, and playful nature. Recognized as a large dog, Bernese Mountain Dogs have their origins in Switzerland, where they were initially bred for guarding livestock and droving work starting in the 1st century.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Albuquerque? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in Duke City.
44.5 percent of all American households share life with a canine companion. Pet professionals like dog trainers, veterinarians, and veterinary behaviorists are more important than ever as our modern society becomes increasingly difficult for four-legged friends to navigate—dog reactivity, anxiety, and general stress from lack of proper enrichment are on the rise in domestic dogs.
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.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a 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.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Considered a medium-sized dog, American Staffordshire Terriers were originally bred in the United Kingdom for baiting bulls, fighting, and hunting beginning in the 1800s — though they're known as gentle, playful lovers today.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, a breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were originally bred in the United States for herding beginning in the 1950s.