With today's house hounds more likely to spend their time hurting toys than sheep it's easy to forget that most dogs have a long history of hard work behind them. Many breeds including the most powerful guardian breeds to pint-sized ratters were originally developed for farm life. Whether it was herding animals protecting livestock or pulling carts in this article the "Top 10 Best Barnyard Dog Breeds".
Collie Dog :
Farm wouldn't be a farm without lassie right. The Collie is a beloved herding breed with a strong need to please his owner. His hurting instincts are hardwired and he takes to his flock without incident. This ranch dog has a remarkable energy and stamina making him an excellent choice for a barnyard (1).
Kuvasz Dog :
The Kuvasz may look cute and cuddly with this snow white coat and floppy ears. But he's actually a formidable livestock guardian dog who isn't afraid to throw down with predators. The breed is also aloof with strangers making him an excellent watchdog. The Kuvasz is protective of his family though he can be a bit of a problem child if he's not trained from an early age to distinguish what an actual threat is (2).
Corgi Dog :
Both the cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgi make good barnyard dogs. Developed to herd cattle the corgi's short stature is by design keeping his head out of harm's way. As he nips at the heels of cows this cattle dog doubles as an excellent vermin chaser too. The corgi is renowned for his goofy temperament and he's happiest in the home with his family at night (3).
Australian
Cattle Dog :
The Australian Cattle Dog's quit wit and drive blend well to barnyard life. Where he'll happily round up livestock or chase off vermin like rabbits. He's tireless when it comes to work and will jump from job to job without much fuss. His intelligence has a downside though as he can get into trouble if he's bored or ignored that said he's a great family dog who's eager to please (4).
Border
Collie Dog :
As one of the most active dog breeds it's no surprise that the Border Collie hails from farming roots. He's a confident pup with an unrivaled work ethic and natural hurting instinct. He's also one of the most intelligent dog breeds and learns commands quickly. When he's not working with a pastor he's happy to relax with his family and is an excellent companion for children (5).
Also Read This : All Dog Breeds - Names and Pictures | Complete List of Dog Profiles
Great
Pyrenees Dog :
The gentle Great Pyrenees is one of the best dog breeds for chickens and other poultry. Despite his size this chicken guard dog won't plow over the birds though he's not afraid to take down a predator if tested. His thick coat suits him to extended periods out in the elements and his loyal nature keeps him with his flock rather than roaming. While he's happy to hang out with his herd the Great Pyrenees should be around people regularly (6).
Caucasian
Shepherd Dog :
When it comes to courage the Caucasian Shepherd is the king of the canine world. His natural guardian instincts and bravery make him not only a wonderful livestock protector dog but one of the best country dogs out there. Weighing well over 100 pounds he can also fill in for hauling duties as needed. His thick coat is well suited for cold weather snaps and his loyalty to his flock will keep him tethered to them for long stretches without incident (7).
Bernese
Mountain Dog :
The happy-go-lucky Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the sweetest breeds on our list his roots are right at home on the barnyard too. As he was an all-around working dog from the start driving cattle protecting the property and pulling carts. This ranch dog's rugged coat is excellent for dealing with the elements too, while he's an all-star on the job he's just as incredible at home (8).
Maremma Sheepdog Dog :
The Maremma Sheepdog is an Italian livestock guardian dog breed that dates back centuries. His white coat isn't just for good looks either he was bred to blend in with the sheep he protects. This gives him a leg up over predators or wranglers who don't spot him until it's too late. His heavy coat makes him one of the best homestead dogs too, as he can spend extended periods of time outside without issue. The Maremma is sweet with his family but naturally aloof with strangers this makes him an excellent watchdog (9).
Rottweiler Dog :
His robust build equips him for herding larger animals like cattle and his no fear attitude will scare off anyone or anything that dares to wander too close. He also can pick up the slack with cart pulling making him the best multi-purpose farm dog out there. The Rottweiler makes an excellent bar on your dog with his loyalty and unmatched watch dog instincts (10).
