Naw! When I downsize it is going to be an Australian Cattle Dog.  They are nothing but miniature German Shepherds with a different herding style and a dappled coat.

They are tough dogs to train and need tons of exercise.  They make German Shepherds look lazy.

At 30 to 40 pounds, I got it!

Good thing you like to run.

I read the article.  This breed sounds like a nice mox of good breeds. Let's hope people don't get stupid and try adding Pits to the pot to toughen them up.

They can’t. That would ruin the new breed.  

If I had space to work them- I'd want them too! They've just joined the list.

I've never heard of German Shepherds being used to herd cattle. Was that their original function?

Yes, they are a herding breed.  That is their original purpose.  Sheep and cattle.

Are they still used for that in Germany or anywhere else, or did their guarding function take precedence?