Herding developed about 10,000 years ago, as prehistoric hunters domesticated wild animals such as sheep and goats. Hunters learned that by controlling animals they once pursued, they could have reliable sources of meat, milk and milk products, and hides for tents and clothing.

People saw that they could attract and tame animals by leaving food for them. The first animal to be tamed was the dog. They started rearing sheep, goat, cattle, etc. People often protected these animals from attacks by other wild animals. This is how people became herders.