help in picking out a new dog

[OurLittlebitRanch]

Quote:
Mini Aussies are now accepted by the AKC, I think as of January 1, 2012. My dates might be off just a bit. Compared to my Border collie there is minimal grooming! I will try to attach a video later of mine "herding" the chickens, it is really very funny to watch! I worked on a farm in Maine that had a Great Pyrenees, She was wonderful at keeping predators away, as well as guests but she was always so matted. I honestly think that it doesn't matter the breed of the dog, what matters is the dogs personality and the owners commitment to training that dog.

 

[jrsckn]

I think the breed and breeding of the dog is very important. I wouldn't get a lab from hunting lines and expect it to not retrieve a chicken lol. I can't recommend a good breed because I am not familiar with livestock breeds since I have american pit bull terriers but rescues are always a good option because they usually temperment test the dogs so you know a little more what you're getting and they will work with you and your needs.

 

[Shianne]

So sorry about your loss. I hope you find another good dog soon enough to help you with the chickens.
I don't think breed matters, what matters is the dogs personality/prey drive. We own an Australian Shepherd and my sister owns her sister. Our dog is great with the chickens, she doesn't care one bit about them, I have a picture of her and a barred rock that decided to jump into the dogs yard together. Her sister, my sisters dog, on the other hand got into our chicken yard this last winter and killed all but 3 of our chickens. She has a high prey drive we've noticed as our dog has a low one, for chickens anyways, she will definitely kill any little rodents who the cats bring home or the ones who happen to come into the yard. Training is great and expected for any dog, but some dogs have higher prey drives so wouldn't be good for this. I'd do as others suggested and see if you can find a rescue that will allow you to take the dog home for a bit and see how it does.

 

[gabrielle32]

Sorry you lost your Reba...

Just keep in mind at any new dog is going to take a lot (and some a WHOLE lot) of training. I'm sure you already know that, but when you've had nothing but reliable dogs for years, I'm sure it'll be a bit of a trial having to work with an unknown, untrained one.
I always go back to the old reliable labs and goldens - both are people pleasers and learn quickly when worked with. Both are well known with getting along well with other family pets (including chickens). My great dane is that way too, but I doubt a dane would fit through your pet door.


I'm sorry for your loss,wish you lots of success with your new dog,against all advice I've just rehomed a 3mth old great dane/lab cross,everyone said because she was a mix of two hunting dogs it would never work with chickens,I took her anyway cos she was irresistible and she really needed a good home,but expected to always have to keep her on lead around chickens,now thanks to this post I'm gonna go back to original plan of training her to be free around them

 

[TXchickmum]

-so very sorry for your loss...
My husband's family had a Great Pyrenees. -excellent dog and wonderful pet! -very protective of his territory, yet a very sweet temperament. -would guard the acreage and make certain that no predators came around. -very large dog that is well-suited for a cold climate.
*We have a tiny Yorkshire Terrier that I wouldn't trust around one of my chickens for two seconds. He's ferocious.

 

[DDRanch]

So sorry. It's never easy to lose one of the family. Sounds like you gave her a wonderful life.