Farmers face many problems like handling and protecting their livestock and crops. They need a companion which can help them protect their livestock from predators, human criminals and thieves. Some farm dogs can be great partner for farmers. They prevent their livestock to get lost during grazing and also give protection from thieves and predators. Farm dogs help in protection due to their loyal behavior and have ability to sniff the danger. Farm dogs can be trained to herd livestock(cattle). They not only provide protection to the livestock and crops, but also protect the farmer and workers. Farmers depends on loyal farm dogs for protection and herding of livestock and crops. Find the best breeds to guard your farm and improve productivity.
Following is the list of best farm dogs
Border Collie
Weight: 26 to 55 lbs
Height: 46 to 60 cm
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Border Collie are a kind of herding dogs specifically considered as sheep herding dogs. They have ability to handle the livestock. Which are energetic and have big barking ability when feel danger. These dogs are friendly in nature and can be affectionate to other animals in farms to whom they are familiar with. They respond well to Dog training techniques.
Great Pyrenees
Weight: 80 to 110 lbs
Height: 60 to 80 cm
Life Span: 08 to 12 years
They provide good protection from hunters such as wolf and wild bears. They are intelligent and full of energy. They are good guardians. They are gentle in nature thus, good with kids. They have strong characteristics such as being steady, self-assured and brave.
Australian Cattle Dog
Weight: 30 to 45 lbs
Height: 43 to 51 cm
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
These farm dogs are quiet good at moving and controlling livestock. They are strong, energetic and smart. They are very protective and proved good watchdogs. They are active and dutiful. They need enough exercise to maintain health and good mood.
Australian Shepherd
Weight: 30 to 70 lbs
Height: 18 to 23 cm
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
They are defensive, active, energetic and resilient. They are hyperactive and have strong ability to herd. They tend to develop good behavior with children and other pets. Australian Shepherd bark a lot but it can be managed by training. They are very affectionate. They like to search and rescue. They are loving and tolerant.
Jack Russell Terrier
Weight: 11 to 14 lbs
Height: 22 to 33 cm
Life Span: 13 to 16 years
Jack Russell Terrier are great farm dogs as they have great ability to hunt pests. They are highly energetic. They have working nature and are muscular, strong and resistant. They have sharp and powerful teeth. They are active and alert. They are bold and muscular. Jack Russell Terrier are athletic in nature. They are very loyal to their owners. They are good defenders and love to play because of their high energy levels.
Maremma Sheepdog
Weight: 70 to 95 lbs
Height: 60 to 70 cm
Life Span: 10 to 13 years
Maremma Sheepdog have been specifically used as shepherds and to protect them from hunters such as wolves. Traditionally, they are used for protection of sheep but they can make a good bond with cattle and protect them. They are good companions and are also working. Maremma Sheepdog are intelligent and loyal. They are chary towards strangers. They are water loving and hate their feet being touched. They love toddlers and other dogs.
Airedale Terrier
Weight: 40 to 65 lbs
Height: 55 to 60 cm
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
Airedale Terrier are the largest of the terrier dog breeds. They are independent in nature but are friendly, bold and loving. They love running, chasing and barking. They hunt rodents. They have a dominating nature but are good with other pets raised with them. Airedale Terrier are great watchdogs.
Collie
Weight: 50 to 70 lbs
Height: 22 to 26 cm
Life Span: 10 to 14 years
Collie are used as herding dogs used to herd sheep, cattle and other livestock. They are intelligent, energetic and have great adaptability. Rottweiler are very obedient in nature. They are loyal and loving. They are used as hunting and farm dogs.
Rottweiler
Weight: 95 to 100 lbs
Height: 55 to 70 cm
Life Span: 08 to 10 years
Rottweiler are responsive to commands as they are very intelligent and have great trainability. Rottweiler not only performs the duty of working dog but also make a good companionship with their owners. Rottweiler are strong and endurant. They are sharp and confident. They have ability of intimidation.
Tibetan Mastiff
Weight: 70 to 120 lbs
Height: 60 to 75 cm
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Tibetan Mastiff are used as livestock guardians. Tibetan Mastiff warn the predators away and protect the livestock. They tend to sleep all the day and thus are more active, aware and alert at night. They are strong and obedient.
Conclusion
Farm dogs are necessary for protecting livestock and crops. You can select any that offer intelligence, loyalty, and effective herding capabilities for your farm. Farm Dogs can be great companions for the farmers playing vital role in protecting and defending their livestock, crops and their owners. Which are help farmers a lot as they not only protect their livestock from hunters but also herd. They can be a great partner as they also develop a strong bond with their owners and their families because of their affectionate and loyal nature. They are great friends and good workers all in one.
