These are two very intense, high-drive herding breeds - but you aren't looking for a herder. You're looking for a protector. You'd be better off looking into livestock guarding breeds like Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherds, Akbash, and Maremma. These are large dogs who have a tendency to be aloof toward strangers, but they can make good family pets with proper training.

Get the right dog for the right job. Herders herd. Guardians protect.

Laurie

I would disagree. Our Blue Heeler/Catahoula mix female was very protective of our herd. Keeps coyotes and deer off the property and chases skunks away (sometimes gets sprayed in the process). She also once herded a bull that was trying to charge me and kept him away.