best herding dogs for chickens

Which leads us to number three, because these dogs can be overprotective, there could be a risk of them attacking a stranger. The 15 Best Farm Dog Breeds. 3 Buff Orpington Hen. This Hungarian breed is a livestock guardian dog that's known for being extremely friendly. The first object of her herding instinct was my parent's black cat. It is very loyal and protective. They are also skilled shepherd dogs. Herding is what they were bred to do. Bobcats Feral dogs Cats Hawks / Owls Weasels Bears Snakes People Just note that dogs will be more helpful protecting chickens from some of these predators than others. The Great Pyrenees. Originally published as "Working Like a Dog" in the June/July 1998 issue of MOTHER EARTH NEWS. Addy was the first dog that Kai had ever met. So you can easily rely on them to protect defenseless animals from predators. Reply Jun 3, 2011 Thread starter #9 mauigirl Any large, protective dog can be trained to guard chickens. The three most common types of livestock that herding dogs work with in the United States are ducks, sheep, and cattle. Posted : 4/22/2008 10:35:36 AM. 1. Perhaps not the first breed that pops into your head as a farm dog, this bearded pup actually has a long history dating back to 1492. Viewed as an "all-purpose" dog, he assisted German farmers by guarding the livestock and keeping out the rodents, notes Vetstreet. But chicken herding isn't for every dog. The Kuvasz is a livestock guardian dog breed that has been used to guard sheep, goats, and chickens for many centuries. Addy was obsessed by her and would spend all of her time keeping track of the cat. They are incredibly loyal, highly intelligent, and very watchful dogs. THat's great news, because most farm dog breeds do need a fair amount of open space. This means that it's less likely that they will intentionally do any damage to your birds. Some dogs are more inclined to stay home than others. The Maremma Sheepdog. Most doggos will scare away cats without problem, but they may not know how to react to snakes. A Shih Tzu, for instance, might be a great choice for a city dweller. Bully Max Muscle Builder */5 out of 5 (1622) From $ 29.97. Styles of Herding This dog may be significant in size, but it is very loving, gentle, and affectionate with its family. The American Kennel Club notes, "these intelligent dogs make excellent companions and respond beautifully to training . The most popular of the herding dogs representative in the USA today is the German Shepherd Dog. When he is within 10 feet of the chickens, give him the 'away to me' command to move the chickens in a counterclockwise direction. "In the field, their handlers might not be around, so they need to make decisions on their own. Once a pet among Cuban elite, the Havanese was born to be a companion and can be one of the best small dogs for families. Havanese. The chickens aren't scared of him anymore, its pretty funny. Not only do these dogs make excellent herding dogs in farm life, but they're often great at dog sports, and some also excel as guard dogs for family members. The most common chicken-herding dogs are: Australian shepherd Border collie Shetland sheepdog Great Pyrenees Collie Welsh corgi Other dogs can certainly learn to herd chickens — it's just a bit easier to start with a breed that naturally enjoys the task. Bullmastiff. 3. Movement training. Each one of these canine cuties has something special to offer. Collies are one of the most popular herding dog breeds, most famously depicted in the television show Lassie. Initially, they were brought to the US for farm use, which says a lot about the breed itself. EGG PRODUCTION: Two hundred to 300 light-brown eggs per year is not uncommon for this heavy egg-layer. Without further ado, here are the 30 AKC recognized herding breeds. Very fast and nimble, typically only about 30-40 lbs. 7 Dog Breeds That Get Along with Chickens. English Shepherd. First, these dogs bark a lot and are very loud. They are also known for their friendly temperament and getting on with pretty much any other animal. Pyrenean Mastiff Farm animals serve a variety of purposes. The English Shepherd is a descendant of the same family as the Collie and Shepherds that originated in the UK. German Shepherd Dog. Breed Overview Recap. Get more on keeping farm dogs from HobbyFarms.com: How to Train Young Stock Dogs [VIDEO] Don't Give Up on Your Failed Guard Dog; Select a Herding Dog for . They were bred to guard and protect livestock. The most popular of the herding dogs representative in the USA today is the German Shepherd Dog. Komondor Now obviously this is a good outcome but we do need to consider the potential for the herding type of dogs to become a little obsessed around chickens. Top 10 Best Guard Dog Breeds for Livestock & Poultry Protection in 2021. Komondor. This group holds some of the most intelligent breeds of all, including the English and Australian Shepherds, Collie and Heeler. Addy is a 'herding' dog by nature. Herding dogs, also classified as working dogs, share characteristics and physical traits, such as agility, speed and loyalty. What's a good farm dog? However, the list is not limited to those five breeds. Their coat is pretty cool and looks like a lot of cords hanging down. 10 Best Attack Dog Breeds. With some concerted effort you can certainly train other pets to go along with chickens. They remain calm and relaxed when they are not working, but often display their high energy levels in the line of duty. They can be trained to tolerate and even to herd chickens, but it can be difficult. The Belgian sheepdog or Groenendael is one of the best herding dogs among the four types of Belgian shepherd dog breeds: Groenendael, Malinois, Laekenois and Tervuren. I have been raising and leasing ducks for herding trials for about 6 years. The Akbash, Anatolian Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Kuvasz, Komondor, Maremma Sheepdog, Old English Sheepdog, and the Spanish Mastiff are the eight best farm dogs for chickens. If you have an older dog who has a strong prey instinct, the safest way to have free-range chickens and this type of dog live together is to either keep the chickens in a coop or the dog chained or inside when the chickens are ranging. Best Herding Breed Dog Food: Taste of the Wild Grain Free High Protein: 4.9: Best Puppy Food for Herding Breeds: BLUE Wilderness High Protein Grain Free Puppy Dry Dog Food: 4.7: Best Senior Herding Breed Food: CANIDAE Grain Free PURE Meadow Senior Dog Dry Formula with Fresh Chicken: 4.6: Best Herding Breed Dog Food for Working Dogs Table of Content [ show] 1. Once you train them, they'll take guard duty seriously. Dogs of this breed are known for their physical strength. The best guard dogs for chickens include the Akbash, Komondor, Tibetan mastiff, Pyrenean mastiff, and Kuvasz. . They make great farm dogs because they are very friendly and get along with animals, adult humans, and kids. Training your dog Teaching your dog new skills Tips and advice on how to choose the perfect herding dogs for your farm, family and livestock out of the long list of herding breeds that exist within American agriculture. max. That's one of the characteristics to look for in a good homestead dog. Herding dogs. He'll always herd silkies, he never bites anything, he just nudges them with his nose. By Joyce Norris. Bearded collies, sometimes called "beardies", are crazy cute canine clowns, who constantly bounce off the walls. Standard Schnauzer. German shepherd. This makes them easy to train, and also makes them likely to chase chickens. Despite their playful nature . They are incredibly smart animals, capable of picking up dozens of commands. Temperament. Their thick coat makes them comfortable in colder weather as well. He's also deeply attached to his family. They are trying to tell you about a predator approaching. 3. Each variety is distinguished by a different coat. Komondors are dogs that impress all of us — dogs and humans alike. These dogs are bold, confident, powerful, and fearless. Anatolian Shepherd. Border Collie. 1. "They will generally live between 12 and 15 years," Jeffers said. The Airedale terrier is the largest of all the terrier types, traditionally bred to work as versatile, all-around farm dogs. . As a farm dog, a German shepherd can perform many tasks. Step. Overall, they are smart, happy, energetic and athletic animals that need to be active. Komondors. Homesteading Dogs - Herding. 3. Top 10 Best Guard Dog Breeds for Livestock & Poultry Protection in 2021. Coat and Color: Straight, coarse, shaggy coat comes in black, blue, brown, or fawn. My dad assured Kai that Addy was friendly and loved kids. For those looking for dog breeds that get along with chickens, the Anatolian Shepherd is an excellent choice. Movement training. 6) Australian Cattle Dog: Another really smart herding breed, not so much a guarding breed to scare predators away. Herding dogs are naturally aware of livestock and know instinctively how to avoid getting kicked and/or stepped on. Image: PxHere. Life Expectancy: 12-13 years. Concerns have been raised over the changing shape of the Shepherd and weakness in the hindquarters of some show dogs. A working dog can be your best farmhand ever, if you have a breed and an individual fitted to the work. While some dogs are only good for herding and others for guarding and protecting, some breeds can do it all. #3. Methods I used: [1] segregating dog and chickens in coop for increasing intervals until the dog doesn't get excited about bird presence. 2 Best Farm Dog Breeds for Your Chickens 2.1 1- Komondor 2.2 2- Maremma Sheepdog 2.3 3- Pyrenean Mastiff 2.4 4- Anatolian Shepherd 2.5 5- Kangal 2.6 6- Akbash 2.7 7- Kuvasz 2.8 8- The Great Pyrenees 2.9 9- Polish Tatra Sheepdog 2.10 10- Spanish Mastiff 2.11 11- Old English Sheepdog 2.12 12- Maltese 2.13 13- Japanese Chin Don't Force Chicken Herding on an Uninterested Dog. Bichon Frise Table of Content [ show] 1. Training your dog how to herd chickens can be one of the most useful tasks for both you and your dog. American Bulldog. Known for its loyalty, and protective nature, the GSD is also one of the smartest herding dog breeds. People consistently rank Tibetan Mastiffs as one of the best chicken guard dogs because they're very protective by nature. This doggo is purebred from Turkey but can be difficult to come by due to its rarity. Restraint and Contain. The Border Collie ticks just about every box there is when looking for a herding dog. Answer: Belgian Malinois are chosen as police and guard dogs so often because they have a high prey drive. Great Pyrenees Known for its loyalty, and protective nature, the GSD is also one of the smartest herding dog breeds. Most judges and exhibitors say "They are the best ducks they have ever seen.". 7 Ways to Keep a Dog from Killing Chickens. (An Australian Australorp holds a record for laying 364 eggs in 365 days!) (A good canine guardian will also keep stray dogs - not to mention your neighbor's mischievous cockadoodle - at bay.) The Maremma Sheepdog. American farmers and ranchers began bringing Anatolian Shepherds to the United States in the 1950s after World War II, but the breed did not become popular until the 1970s for livestock guardians in America. With the right training, they can help to drive livestock. Maremma Sheepdog The Maremma Sheepdog was bred to guard flocks from predators, making them the best dog to protect chickens and not attack them. Group: Herding (AKC) Height: 21 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder (male); 20 to 21 inches (female) Weight: 45 and 55 pounds. "These very intelligent animals have been developed to think independently when tending livestock," explains Petcha. All Herding breeds share an instinctual ability to control the movement of other animals. Will keep livestock together and on the property. However, that it doesn't then go to the next stages of kill and then consume their quarry. Most of these breeds do this instinctually, but will need training to follow your commands. 2. Best selling products. This breed will typically not leave the herd's side or let any other dogs near . Good to Know: Havanese has a hypoallergenic coat that requires brushing 2-3 times a week and regular grooming. Rottweiler. What dogs are the best of the best when it comes to herding? . Various dogs have a low prey drive and are bred to have an instinctual habit of protecting livestock, including chickens. To select the best breed of herding dog for your farm or homestead, Jeffers said to ask yourself a . German Shepherd. You will definitely want to keep these things in mind. 5 of the best dog breeds to have around the farm. This is one of the most popular herding dogs in the world. Answer (1 of 2): There are about fifty recognized livestock guardian breeds worldwide. Best Dog Breeds For Chicken Farmers Akbash The Akbash is a sizeable rare guard dog from Turkey. If you choose a good dog, they will live — and work — for a long time. The Akbash. Does anyone have any input as to what . You may be able to find a dog that is already trained and ready to work but the price of such a dog will be significantly more expensive . These breeds were developed . My first thought is Great Pyrenees. Australian Cattle Dog These pups are compact, smart balls of muscle usually weighing anywhere from 35 to 50 pounds. Belgian Malinois. 7. Let's get one thing out of the way pretty quickly: Keeping chickens alongside cats and dogs is indeed possible. 2. The herding or pastoral group, as the name implies, consists of dogs selected for their prowess in herding and handling livestock. Then give him the 'come bye' command to have him move them in a clockwise direction. These dogs are also nocturnal, so you won't catch them sleeping on the job at night. Cats are typically less aggressive than dogs around chickens, however both can be trained and conditioned such that they can safely co-exist . This breed is highly trainable and is dedicated to keeping their family happy. By the way, if you get a dog of the herding breed, like a blue heeler, you might also want to check the prey drive of their dam and sire. We're seriously considering getting some chickens. This is a very old breed who has spent centuries herding livestock in the Picardy pastures of France. Image Credit: Steve Slater They originate in Turkey and have been used by sheep and goat shepherds for centuries. 3. These breeds are known for their abilities to lead animals out to . Airedales have the natural terrier prey drive and make excellent vermin catchers, but they're also keen protectors of their land. The breed is intelligent, highly trainable, and loyal. Then give him the 'come bye' command to have him move them in a clockwise direction. While many dogs may live in peace with poultry, some problematic pooches may always be dangerous to chickens and other small animals. Border Collie Tops on the list is the Border Collie. "Depending on the individual dog, normally you retire them somewhere between 10 and 12 [years].". Second, they are considered overprotective. When it comes to herding and controlling everything from cows to sheep to fowl, the most capable herding dogs are the Australian Cattle Dog, the Belgian Shepherd, the Border Collie, the German Shepherd, the Old English Sheepdog, the Rottweiler and the Welsh Corgi. Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years. My border collie will herd chickens, rabbits, and lawn mowers. The Belgian sheepdog is a long-haired breed, known for its black coat and impressive looks. One of the most popular farm dogs, border collies have a strong work ethic and are the ultimate herding dog. 4. Above all, use your best judgment. When he is within 10 feet of the chickens, give him the 'away to me' command to move the chickens in a counterclockwise direction. Livestock guard dog (LGD) breeds are generally large (over 100 pounds), and while they may be devoted and friendly with their human owners, they are often unfriendly with other dogs. German Shepherd Dog. Standard Schnauzer. This list of the Top Breeds that Herd Livestock will give you a glimpse. Great Pyrenees. The German Shepherd. Up until 1983, the breeds in the Herding Group were part of the Working Group. 3. The Komondor, or Hungarian sheepdog, earned the nickname the "giant mop" for its large, white-colored curly, but matted hair. Working sheep and cattle looks simple when these pups take over. With your pup off the leash, give him the 'walk up' command. While most of their advice works for house training a dog, herd training is as individual as say, training a hunting dog. German Shepherd. READ: Dogs Stung by Bees : What You Need to Know & How to Treat Them. Breeds that are widespread throughout most of the world include: Maremma,. Anatolian Shepherd is a brave, tenacious, and cheerful working dog. 1. Step. So you've got yourself a chicken coop. 1. And we started wondering what dog breed would be the best to guard poultry. 04 of 17. Herding dogs will help you gather and move groups of animals to your desired location. They are well-known as an excellent flock protector because of their intelligence, bravery, and strong instinctive herding abilities. He's trainable, affectionate and sturdy for his short stature. Border Collie. We know that herding is a form of chasing. Coming in at 34% protein and 17% fat it's perfectly optimal while maintaining high calories to keep your dog going through the whole day. Australian shepherds are brilliant, loyal, hardworking dogs that are made to herd. LGDs are true work animals, and they . Assuming you don't want to spend a lot of money on acquiring a dog, your breed options are limited to what is available where you live. Because of its strong guarding and herding instincts, this breed can serve as an excellent multipurpose farm dog. In terms of temperament, this doggo has a low prey drive. The American Kennel Club notes, "these intelligent dogs make excellent companions and respond beautifully to training . 5. Not all Belgians will kill chickens. Kuvasz. He chases our rabbits around the deck, my brother's rabbit follows him all day long. Published on Oct 2, 2020; Tagged with: AKC, dog, guardian dogs, herding, livestock dogs, sheepherders . The American Kennel Club, the largest dog breed registry in the United States, currently recognizes 18 herding breeds, including the Collie, Shetland Sheepdog, Old English Sheepdog and Welsh Corgi breeds, to name just a few. Some of the best herding and guard dogs for farms include the Great Pyrenees, Australian Shepherd, Maremma Sheepdog, Tibetan Mastiff, and Komondor. You want a dog that is loyal, friendly, but also fiercely protective. Aside from the Collie, other herding breeds such as the German Shepherd, Australian Cattle Dog, and many others are also fantastic family pets. Great qualities for a farm dog. Read your dog's body language, and know him well enough to determine which precautionary steps you need to take to keep your chickens and your dogs safe. However, many others are a little more specialized, particularly in the early stages . Learn how to train and care for farm dogs to help with herding and guarding. Feeding: 5-6 cups of dog food (1 cup is about 1 lb.) Making a coop, the whole nine yards. Energy Levels: Medium to high. For some of those dogs it is r-e-a-l-l-y hard not to herd those ducks or anything that moves for that matter. Temperament. The Kuvasz is a livestock guardian dog breed that has been used to guard sheep, goats, and chickens for many centuries. With your pup off the leash, give him the 'walk up' command. Other non-AKC herding breeds also exist, such as the Australian Kelpie and the English Shepherd. [2] allowing a rooster and dog in the same area. The Akbash. One of the most popular farm dogs, border collies have a strong work ethic and are the ultimate herding dog. Breed Overview. Other animals that are regularly herded with dogs are chickens, geese, turkeys, and goats. German Shepherds are high energy dogs who tend to act like medium energy dogs. But there's also the Anatolian Shepherd, Maremma and I'm sure many more. Berger Picards were featured at the first official dog shows in France in the late 1800s and have since become energetic, lively pets (albeit stubborn, so be sure to teach commands early and use them often). This breed will typically not leave the herd's side or let any other dogs near . Best Herding Breed Dog Food for Working Dogs CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food For those dogs who are still doing what they were bred to do, it's hard to beat CRAVE. It's friendly, cuddly, and easy to train. Concerns have been raised over the changing shape of the Shepherd and weakness in the hindquarters of some show dogs. After the cat died (from old age), Addy . This shaggy companion with long, luscious hair originated from Scotland as a versatile herding companion. Some talented dogs can herd all of these species. Swift moving and a never-ending work ethic make this pup a great choice as a herder. Integrating Chickens, Dogs and Cats Chickens, dogs and cats oh my! This does take some . For horsemen and ranchers with properties that house sheep, goats, cow/calf operation, chickens, as well as horses, working dogs specifically bred to protect livestock such as Great Pyrenees, Catahoula Leopard Dogs, Anatolian . Herding dogs, also classified as working dogs, share characteristics and physical traits, such as agility, speed and loyalty. Originally people bred these dogs for cattle protection. Other common herding dogs include the Shetland Sheepdog, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Bearded Corgi, Belgian Malinois, German Shepherd, Queensland Heeler, Terrier, Sheltie, and Collie breeds. Kuvasz. See product > Bully Max Nutrition Plans */5 out of 5 (675 . The Great Pyrenees. Australian Cattle Dog (Heeler) These fiercely loyal and intelligent dogs are the ultimate . Very fast and smart, another breed that you need to keep engaged. TEMPERAMENT: Australorps are gentle and tolerant of confined spaces, making them a good breed for beginners and for smaller chicken coops. Overall, they are smart, happy, energetic and athletic animals that need to be active. Typically, three types of specialty dogs are used for specific farm tasks: herders . You can tell straight away that the Komondor means no harm to any human or bird. They are well-known as an excellent flock protector because of their intelligence, bravery, and strong instinctive herding abilities. 4. If you are looking at puppies, however, you should choose a different breed. These goofballs are super affectionate, playful, and serve as excellent family dogs. Bearded Collie. They are used as guardian dogs and livestock protectors worldwide. On a farm, though, this might not be the ideal breed. While tough dogs thrive from the outside, make sure they get plenty of human company.

best herding dogs for chickens