Herdier have often been described, in tones varying from sardonic to grateful, as walking suits of armor. This appellation does not refer to their own defenses - although their fur is reasonably tough, it does not compare to the hide of a Steelix or many other pokemon – but to their willingness to absorb even life-threatening injuries in order to protect their often undeserving trainer.
This phrase was coined in a literal sense, although today, when suits of armor are rare, it is more often understood metaphorically; it derives from the era when Herdier fought alongside men in battles. The tough hides which Herdier possess and their willingness to use them to block any sword that would otherwise strike their trainer was said to have saved as many soldiers' lives as actual armor!
The use of Herdier in battle, or even in protective roles such as bodyguards, was often criticized by ancient writers as barbaric or seen as proof of Man's unworthiness of their loyalty. But Herdier have shown humans such favor, although breeding may have played as large a role in that fact as individual choice, and for that reason, others have argued that it would be the height of ingratitude to forbid these pokemon from protecting their trainers. Although the modern world is a peaceful place, there are still many individuals alive today who are grateful for the loyalty of their living Herdier, and many more who pay visits to sites such as Lavender Tower to commemorate those Herdier who made the ultimate sacrifice for their sake.