Herding Mixes

Another Border collie mix has different colored eyes - one blue, one brown - which shows her collie heritage.
Photo: Close Encounters of the Furry Kind.
What is a Mixed-Breed Dog? 
Overview
Herding mixes are bright, alert, and very responsive to training. They need lots of stimulation to focus their enormous physical energy and sharp intelligence. If these dogs aren't challenged in this way, they can develop behavior problems, such as household destruction or nipping. Herding mixes are usually of some sheep-herding parentage, although in regions where the cattle industry is strong, mixes of cattle-herding breeds are more common.
Appearance
These dogs are medium-size to large, with a thick coat in a variety of colors and lengths. The black and white, tricolor, merle, and speckled patterns seen in purebred herding dogs are also replicated in herding mixes.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Most of these dogs need brushing twice a week, although some can need more frequent grooming. Because of their high energy and tremendous stamina, these dogs need three walks daily as well as frequent daily off-leash play and running time in a secured area.