6 Dog Breeds that Are Perfect for the Country
If you have a large house, you live on the outskirts of the city, or you’re thinking about buying a farm, then this is the article for you. Today, we want to tell you about 6 dog breeds that are perfect for the country. With their protective nature and fantastic ability to round up sheep, these animals might be just what you need.
Which are the best breeds for life in the country?
If you own a house with a lot of land, you’re probably looking for a pet, guardian and herding dog to help out with your daily chores. The following breeds will meet all your needs, and are perfect for life in the country.
1. Breeds for the country: The Samoyed
This is one of the most popular Russian breeds, not just in Russia, but all over the world. Today, these dogs are commonly used by nomadic communities, serving as sheepdogs and hunting dogs, protecting reindeer, and pulling sleds. They have a thick, white coat to protect them from low temperatures.
The Samoyed is a sociable, docile, strong and hardy breed. They are characterized by their cheerful expression which gives them a permanent smile. They are always on the alert and, despite what many people believe, don’t have a particularly strong hunting instinct.
2. The St. Bernard
This country and mountain breed originates from the Swiss and Italian Alps. A cross between the Tibetan Mastiff, the Great Dane, the Newfoundland and the extinct Alpine Mastiff, the St. Bernard is famous for its loyalty, bravery and laid-back temperament.
It was named after the Great Saint Bernard Hospice, which shelters pilgrims and travelers. These are large, robust dogs with large heads. They can be long or short-coated, and are typically red and white, or brown and white in color. St. Bernards are patient, obedient and very good-natured.
3. Breeds for the country: The Laekenois Belgian Shepherd
The oldest, and least well-known of all the Belgian shepherd dogs, the Laekenois is ideal for country life. Light, muscular and agile, the Laekenois has a wiry, brown and white coat, and can weigh up to 66lbs. These are hardworking and intelligent dogs, ideal for herding and guarding sheep. Dynamic and energetic with finely honed instincts, they require intensive training from a young age.
4. The English pointer
These dynamic and active dogs adapt well to the outdoors and love doing sport. Originating from Great Britain, it’s believed they’re descended from the Old Spanish Pointer. The first English Pointers appeared back in the 17th Century, and were trained to point at prey (which is where they get their name).
Today, they’re no longer used as hunting dogs, instead becoming popular pets, especially in rural areas. Large, strong and agile, the English pointer is a curious and intelligent breed. They’re rarely aggressive, and get on well with children and other dogs.
5. Breeds for the country: The Norfolk Terrier
Though it might be the smallest member of the terrier family, the Norfolk Terrier is perfect for the country. Brave, active, and friendly, these dogs are perfect for families with small children. They enjoy hard work, using it to burn excess energy.
The Norfolk terrier is a compact breed, with short, muscular legs, a wide head, and a wiry coat, which comes in colors such as red, black, wheaten and gray. In terms of character, these terriers are sociable, playful, and extroverted, rarely behaving aggressively toward others.
6. The Border Collie
The Border Collie is one of the most intelligent breeds in the world. They excel at obedience, agility, herding and problem-solving, making them perfect for country life. Originating from the British Isles, the Collie gets its name from the old Celtic word for “useful”. Collies have a long body, and can weigh up to 44lbs. They have a thick double coat to protect them from the cold, and often have heterochromia (one blue eye and one brown eye) or bright blue eyes.
At the very least, Border Collies need to have access to a large garden, as they are highly active and energetic dogs. They are best for active families that enjoy sports and spending time in the great outdoors. Without proper care and attention from their owners, they can become destructive when left alone.
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- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (sf) Nomenclatura de las razas de la FCI. Recuperado el 13 de enero de 2022, disponible en: http://www.fci.be/es/nomenclature/2-Perros-tipo-pinscher-y-schnauzer-Molosoides-Perros-tipo-montana-y-boyeros-suizos.html#s2