Australian Shepherds
There’s a good reason Australian Shepherds are so popular in Western barns. This herding breed is known to be obedient, eager to please, and very trainable. They’re also extremely energetic and very smart. What more can you ask for in a good barn dog?
Aussies are kind and they respond well to positive reinforcement. Their nature makes them eager to help around the barn, and they’re generally friendly with humans and other animals. They tend to be great with kids, which can be very important if you have children or clients coming through your barn.
This breed is also incredibly intelligent. They somehow seem to know when a horse isn’t feeling well or has an injury, and they’ll let you know when something is wrong. They’ve even been known to comfort a sick or depressed horse.
If you have an Aussie hanging out in your barn, you’ll also notice that he’s the barn monitor. He’ll supervise everything from stall cleaning to training, and he’ll let you know when anything’s not right. Aussies also tend to be very protective of their pack- you and your horses- but they also listen well when you tell them it’s time to stand down.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is an energetic, intelligent mid-sized breed. They are herders at heart, which is why they’re often called Heelers. They’re independent and protective, with excellent instincts around the horses and barn.
A Cattle Dog will be like your extra set of eyes, watching over the horses while going out of their way not to spook them. They know to stay at a safe distance, but they’re still incredibly loyal and protective.
If you take them to shows, you’ll find that they socialize well with people and other dogs. They’re territorial in their own barn but respectful of other dogs in their space. They do fantastic in pairs… if you get two, they’ll be best friends.
These breeds tend to be intelligent, hardy, and athletic dogs that enjoy the great outdoors. While they vary greatly in size and temperament, theyre all known for being driven to do their jobs.
Dogs that were bred to work on farms thrive when they have a job to do. That means if you dont live on a farm, youll have to provide your dog with lots of mental and physical exercise to keep it happy and channel its energy. Otherwise, it might start to engage in problem behaviors, such as chewing.
For centuries, dogs have assisted humans with farm work. There are a lot of dog breeds that adjust well to living in a rural countryside setting. But some dogs have been bred specifically to thrive doing farm work, whether herding livestock, protecting the farm and its inhabitants, exterminating vermin, or helping with other tasks.
These Are 10 Best Farm Dog Breeds
For centuries, dogs have assisted humans with farm work. There are a lot of dog breeds that adjust well to living in a rural countryside setting. But some dogs have been bred specifically to thrive doing farm work, whether herding livestock, protecting the farm and its inhabitants, exterminating vermin, or helping with other tasks.
Dogs that were bred to work on farms thrive when they have a job to do. That means if you dont live on a farm, youll have to provide your dog with lots of mental and physical exercise to keep it happy and channel its energy. Otherwise, it might start to engage in problem behaviors, such as chewing.
These breeds tend to be intelligent, hardy, and athletic dogs that enjoy the great outdoors. While they vary greatly in size and temperament, theyre all known for being driven to do their jobs.