Photography by smikeymikey1 / Shutterstock. German Shepherds were bred to be farm dogs, or herding dogs specifically. Mastiff ( Neapolitan, Spanish, and Tibetan).Breeds involved in livestock protection tend to cut a large and imposing figure, possess a stentorian bark, and depend on either intimidation or surprise in their work. The best guard dogs are those who blend in effectively with their charges, defend them from predators, and be attentive day or night as required. A farmer or rancher cannot possibly watch flocks or herds while attending to all of their other duties.įor centuries, dogs of all sizes, types, and breeds have dedicated themselves to caring for cattle, sheep and goats. Thinking of farm dogs may immediately evoke images of our first two categories specifically large, hardy dogs who monitor and protect vulnerable livestock. Livestock farming encompasses a wide range of birds and beasts raised for the meat, milk, eggs, wool or skin. The general categories of working dog jobs include:Ī Great Pyrenees is among the best farm dogs. When we try, then, to determine or narrow down the best farm dogs, we need to take under consideration both the range of dog breeds and the tasks required of them. Despite the fact that most of us live at several degrees from farm life, the variety of farm dogs and their functions has not changed. During a more agrarian era, dogs of all sizes and breeds found employment on farms. When we mention farm dogs, you may think specifically of medium or large canines who herd sheep, cattle, or pigs.
Prior to the start of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, however, every animal raised in rural and farming communities - including fowls, livestock and dogs - played practical, integral roles in the food system. We tend to think of dogs primarily as friends, companions or family members, and not as essential components of the process by which we obtain our food. Unless you are a student of agricultural history and trends, you might not know that a substantial number of domestic dog breeds were originally developed as working farm dogs.
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