Farm life can be hectic, and you need a dog that can keep up with farm tasks and out of the way of hooves. These top dog breeds are perfect for horse farms for a variety of reasons, including their readiness to walk alongside on the trail, their ability to keep predators and vermin away from barns, and their easy trainability to stay respectful around their fellow four-legged friends. Learn more about some of the best breeds to have on a horse farm.
Australian Cattle Dog
Originally bred to help herd cattle, Australian Cattle Dogs are great with horses too. They’re smart and able to navigate well alongside working horses, moving together to help keep other farm livestock safe and contained on the farm.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a smart breed at home on the farm. They’re natural herders, which can help if you need to round up horses from a pen. And, their extra smarts make them easy to train for whatever farm task is needed.
Border Collie
Like the Australian Shepherd, the Border Collie is another great herder at home on the farm. While they’re more traditionally used for livestock such as sheep, they can be great companions on a horse farm as well, helping to keep horses in their pens or on trails.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians aren’t traditional farm dogs, but their intelligence and grace make them a great choice. Traditionally used to run alongside the horses pulling fire engines, they’re naturals around equines, and able to stay out from underfoot with ease.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a working dog that is eager to please no matter what job they’re performing. Great at home as family companions, at work alongside people, and on the farm, they’ll be up for any task given to them.
Golden Retriever
While you may not think of a Golden Retriever as a farm dog, they’re great all-around companions! Their smarts and easy trainability make them perfect for minding themselves around horses, while their instincts as hunting dogs will help keep critters at bay.
Great Pyrenees
A breed designed to guard livestock, the Great Pyrenees is at home on any farm. Their calm natures make them great around young animals such as foals, and their natural protective instincts will keep all predators far away.
Jack Russell Terrier
A smaller breed, the Jack Russell Terrier is a great farm dog due to their abilities as natural vermin hunters. These terriers will happily go after any rats or mice hiding in hay bales, feed bins, and more, to ensure your horse’s feed stays safe and sound.
Labrador Retriever
Similar to the Golden Retriever, the Labrador Retriever may not be what comes to mind when you think of a farm dog. But, their easy trainability and loyal natures make them great companions. They’ll help keep the farm safe while wagging their tail happily the entire time.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
A farm dog natural, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a great breed to have on any farm. While they may be prone to trying to herd your horses, their quick feet and low-to-the-ground bodies help them stay out from underfoot. They’re also happy to run along on trail rides.
Now that you know more about these dog breeds that are perfect for horse farms, check out some other great farm breeds such as the best livestock guardian breeds for chickens. Or, if you live in an apartment instead, check out the best large dog breeds for apartment living!
