These dog breeds are quite special. Why? Because they have some skills that humans can only hope to master. Did you know that sheep herding is better done by a dog? Read on to learn more!
1. Tibetan Mastiff
Intelligent and usually happiest to live with a calm, predictable routine, these dogs develop a strong loyalty to their forever families. It's their independent nature that makes them good guard dogs, particularly with livestock and on smaller farms where they can have more interaction with their owners.
Tibetan Mastiffs usually live outdoors in order to protect their farmstead from predators and other threats. They patrol grounds, perimeters and farm buildings where animals are penned. They were bred to have a deep, alarming bark for this purpose, but he does just as well as a watchdog around the house.
2. Dachshund
Dachshunds are good watchdogs (perhaps one reason they tend to be barkers), as well as affectionate and adaptable, which is one reason they're one of America's most popular breeds. But would you believe they were bred in Germany to catch badgers and other burrowing critters?
That skill is one reason why this breed comes in handy as a hunter, especially on a farm, and it's in this realm that a few other traits — namely tenacity and independence — can be both a help and a hindrance, as their digging abilities can come to light pretty quickly.
3. Schnauzer
Dogs of this breed are multi-taskers, pitching in to hunt rodents, protect the barnyard from intruders and even herd cattle.
Schnauzers make good companions as well as being loyal protectors of the children in his family. However, they can also be strong-willed and dominant, so early training is recommended.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
A popular pup with energy to spare, this breed thinks work is play, so as a farm hand, they'll be useful and hardworking. Their main “gig” is hunting for pests as small as mice or large as a fox. Don't think his penchant for the hunt is overworking him, though, because Jack Russells will use that energy one way or another!
Because they're smart, this adorable, feisty breed needs constant mental exercise, so bending it toward usefulness on a farm will make him happy, healthy and channeled in a positive direction. In fact, one of this dog's most impressive feats is their ability to hunt foxes out of their dens without killing them, demonstrating both obedience and restraint.
Incredible! These dog breeds truly are amazing. If you ever have any sheep herding needs, then you should go on and ask one of these pooches to help you out! LOL!
For more dog breeds that are excellent sheep herders, be sure to check out Healthy Pets.
