Always remember that farm dog breeds are working canines, and that they thrive when given a purpose in life. If you don't have a farm, you'll need to get creative about giving your dog the cerebral and physical stimulation it needs.
Dogs specifically bred for working on farms and in rural areas have been invaluable to humans for millennia. They were developed to aid farmers in their daily tasks, whether it be managing animals or defending the farm's inhabitants.
Cowboys love Australian Shepherds because they are excellent hunting dogs. The first known examples of the breed, despite their moniker, appeared in the United States during the Gold Rush of the 1840s.
Border Collies are not only excellent dogs for farmers, but also for people who enjoy long distance running. Border Collies were originally bred to herd livestock and hail from the border between Scotland and England, hence their name.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis may look small, but don't let that deceive you; they make excellent working dogs. Their low-slung bodies make them ideal for herding, as they can nip at the feet of the sheep or animals.
Jack Russell Terriers are another breed of small canine that packs a big punch on the farm. As dogged vermin hunters, Jack Russells are invaluable for eradicating unwanted farm animals. They are bright, assured, and full of life.
When it comes to protecting animals and the farmyard, these large, handsome puppies are your best bet. Located between France and Spain, the Pyrenees are the birthplace of the Great Pyrenees.
The Australian Cattle canine is another excellent breed of farm canine, and should not be confused with the more popular Australian Shepherd. Australian Cattle Dogs were initially created to aid in the long-distance, uneven-ground herding of cattle in Australia.
The term "German Shepherd" suggests that these dogs excel at herding cattle, but that's not all they can do! German Shepherds are extremely useful farm dogs because of their ability to both protect and herd livestock.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a wonderful farm dog because he is friendly, calm, loyal, and courageous. The Bernese Mountain Dog was developed in Switzerland and is a direct offspring of the Roman mastiff.
The Old English Sheepdog is an English shepherd breed. While their shaggy coats make them excellent herders in colder climes, they aren't the best choice for warmer farms because of their popularity.
You might not be familiar with the term "Komondor," but you've probably seen this corded-coated mop dog before. Komondors are Hungarian livestock security dogs that are known for their independence and wariness.