shepherd

A shepherd is a person who tends, herds, and guards sheep. The duties typically include guiding flocks to pasture, monitoring animal welfare, counting and recording livestock, overseeing lambing and feeding, and protecting the herd from predators. In many agricultural systems, shepherds coordinate with farmers, veterinarians, and other workers, manage breeding, and move animals between fields or pastures. Historically, the work has taken place in open fields, valleys, or mountains, and in some regions involves seasonal migrations known as transhumance. Modern shepherding often relies on trained dogs and basic flock-management tools.

Etymology and terminology: the word derives from Old English sceapweard, from sceap meaning sheep and weard meaning guardian or keeper. In some languages and traditions, the role is associated with pastoral life and is connected to the term pastor in religious contexts.

Tools and methods: traditional shepherding uses a staff or crook, and a shepherd’s dog is commonly trained to assist with moving, gathering, and protecting the flock. Techniques vary by climate and terrain but share goals of efficient flock mobility, droving, and surveillance for health issues or predators.

Cultural and historical context: shepherding appears in many cultures and has deep historical roots in agrarian societies. The term also appears in religious and literary symbolism, such as the Good Shepherd imagery in Christianity. The word shepherd also functions as a surname and is used to describe professionals who manage flocks along with related occupations such as sheep farming.

See also: pastor, shepherd dog breeds, sheep farming.