The Basque Shepherd Dog is a landrace breed of dog originating in the Basque Country and traditionally used by the local shepherds to help them take care of their cattle and sheep. There, herds of sheep were imported from France, Spain, England, New Zealand and Australia along with their shepherds and dogs. Country of Origin: Spain. The Basque Shepherd’s coat is either straight or slightly wavy and of medium length. See more ideas about shepherd dog, shepherd, dog breeds. Basque Shepherd Dog. Perro de pastor vasco (pastor vasco for short) is the Spanish name, and euskal artzain txakurra is the Basque, by which they are known in their homeland. Overview . History: Despite what the breed name suggests, the Australian Shepherd did not originate in Australia. The Basque Shepherd is a Spanish landrace dog that originates from the Basque Country of Spain. While these dogs are excellent workers with strong instincts, they are also very loyal companions. The breed was (and still is) known for its ability to be a great farm and ranch dog, herder, and tracker. Rather, it was bred in the United States by Basque shepherds who emigrated to America after settling in Australia for a short period of time during the 1800s. Highlights: Outgoing, Calm, Affectionate. Rather, it was bred in the United States by Basque shepherds who emigrated to America after settling in Australia for a short period of time during the 1800s. For several generations, these dogs served the local shepherds as capable guardians and herders for both cattle and sheep. History: Despite what the breed name suggests, the Australian Shepherd did not originate in Australia. California ranchers admired the Basques’ herding dogs and assumed they were an Australian breed—thus the misleading name Australian Shepherd. May 15, 2013 - Basque Shepherd Dog / Euskal artzain txakurra / Pastor Vasco / Perro de Pastor Vasco / Euskal Artzain Txakurra / Basque Herder / Perro de Vasco / Basque Sheepdog. Character: Basque Shepherd Dogs are intelligent animals that learn fast. At Rockin’ KR McNabs, we strive to breed and raise dogs true to the origin of the Scottish Fox Collie and Basque Shepherd’s dogs that Alexander McNab crossed. The breed was (and still is) known for its ability to be a great farm and ranch dog, herder, and tracker. The breed was used by Basque shepherds on the west coast during the 1800s and 1900s. This produces McNab Shepherds with a fine heads up stature, tight footed athletic qualities, a strong heading instinct, amazing herding ability, and deep loyalty.