What dog breed should I get?

fowl farm · Mar 15, 2014

CashNKristin said:
I have been reading the BC's will tend to nip at running kids to herd them. That's the first breed someone mentioned to me but I don't want a dog that can't behave with my kids. My kids LOVE being outside and involved in the farm life here so I need a dog that can handle that without being aggressive.

This shouldn't be a big problem if the dog is properly exercised and trained not to mouth. We had one that did it when she lived in town and got no exercise. Once we moved to the country, everything was fine. Aussies (from what I've heard) are more likely to nip than BCs. But BCs are very high maintenance dogs, so you have to be really, REALLY committed.

kcardella · Mar 16, 2014

I have a 2-year old BC, and he is great with chickens, rabbits, sheep, other dogs, etc. He does get excited around small children, most likely because we don't have any, and they are a novelty. As for the heel nipping, I would imagine you can very easily train them what they can and cannot herd. Very, very smart and eager to please. Also, the only time he barks is if the neighbors dogs or cows come into our yard; not a habitual barker.

I also have 2 LGD with my sheep, and if you don't want a dog barking at night, an LGD is not for you. That is what they do, and they do it well. I have a Maremma and an Akbash, and while the Akbash is more vocal, they both bark at night, sometimes all night. I also had a Great Pyr for a short time, and she barked most of all!

PeckPeckChick · Mar 16, 2014

Auctually scottish terriers are great! The hunt for mice and rats, love company, are very obedient, have good stamina, are friendly, and do not bother small livestock.

PhoenixAires · Mar 16, 2014

I would stay away from any terrier type breeds or sigh hounds if you want to keep your chickens safe.

What dog breed should I get?

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fowl farm

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kcardella

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PhoenixAires

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