The 10 Best Apartment Dogs Might Surprise You

The post The 10 Best Apartment Dogs Might Surprise You by Kelly Pulley appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Many dog lovers will tell you that dogs and apartment living don’t go together. But you don’t need a huge yard in suburbia for your dog to be happy. Here’s a look at some of the breeds that make the best apartment dogs.

Greyhounds are, surprisingly to some, among the best apartment dogs. Photography by krushelss / Shutterstock.

Size Doesn’t Always Matter When it Comes to Choosing the Best Apartment Dogs

Just because a dog is small doesn’t mean he’ll make the cut for good apartment dogs. Some small-breed dogs are far too vocal to meet the requirements of the best apartment dogs. Others are too antsy and have too much energy to be cooped up, even if their smaller size makes the space seem bigger. For example, though he is among the smallest dog breeds, the Chihuahua doesn’t make our list of top apartment dogs because of the breed’s tendency to bark, as well as his energetic, nervous demeanor. However, many Terriers, though they are high energy, tend to make the best apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise.

Some large breeds also make excellent dogs for apartments. For example, the Greyhound is often thought to need room to run because he was bred to do just that. But many rescued Greyhounds are retired racers and are much more inclined to lie around with that sexy, languid look than to chase bunnies on sticks. And, again, as long as exercise requirements are met, many large dogs can live comfortably in an apartment or a small house.

Yorkshire Terriers make our list of best dogs for apartments. Photography by Yazmin Mellado / Shutterstock.

10 Best Apartment Dogs (Small to Large)

1. Yorkshire Terrier:

At around 7 pounds, this extra-small wonder makes the list of best apartment dogs not only because he takes up little space but also because he is not a barker. He is also friendly with people and other pets and very adaptable to new experiences.

2. Maltese:

The slightly larger Maltese (around 9 pounds) has a silky coat with no undercoat that sheds very little, making cleaning in a small space easier. He is also a quiet dog who mostly wants to be where his owner is, earning him a solid spot on this roundup of good apartment dogs.

3. Boston Terrier:

At 12 to 18 pounds, this breed is also very attached to his owner, which means he doesn’t mind being indoors in a small space as long as his owner is attentive. He is also an easily trainable dog.

4. French Bulldog:

A smallish dog (around 20 pounds) with the traits of a larger dog. He is calm and quiet, often relaxing on the most comfortable seat in the place. His practical demeanor makes him suitable for any living space, including an apartment.

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:

This is one of the friendliest breeds, making it easy to deal with other tenants and their dogs. At 13 to 18 pounds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is also calm and very adaptable.

6. English Bulldog:

This is the larger cousin of the French Bulldog who weighs 49 to 55 pounds, a stable dog who is comfortable in small spaces. Indeed, most seem to prefer the couch to the dog park.

7. Basset Hound:

This breed might not seem likely to land on the list of best apartment dogs with his bulky stature (around 60 pounds), but like the Bulldog, he is a very calm dog who is easily kept busy with treat toys and lots of petting.

8. American Staffordshire Terrier:

The show dog version of the American Pit Bull Terrier is more dog-friendly than his cousin. He is easily trained and forms a tight bond with his owner. As long as he gets adequate exercise, he is a good apartment dog. He weighs 55 to 65 pounds.

9. Greyhound:

This racing dog (60 to 80 pounds) might seem an odd choice for a list of best apartment dogs, but retired Greyhounds are some of the biggest canine couch potatoes. They are very trainable and adaptable. They seem to appreciate a more sedentary lifestyle.

10. Great Dane:

“Huge dogs” don’t seem to be good candidates for “great apartment dogs,” but the Great Dane (at a majestic 100 to 130 pounds) is such a natural loafer that, though your couch will probably be fully occupied, he’ll take up far less space than you might think. Add to that his calm demeanor, friendliness, trainability and quiet nature, and the Great Dane makes an excellent choice among best apartment dogs.

If you live in or are moving to an apartment or small house and already have a dog, don’t worry. The following tips can help you all live happily in a small space.

10 Tips for Having a Happy Apartment Dog

No matter which breed, or mix of breeds, you choose to bring into your apartment, here are a few tips! Photography by Patryk Kosmider / Shutterstock.

1. Acclimate:

If you’ve adopted a new puppy or adult dog, or if you’re moving your current dog into a small space, try to acclimate him slowly by visiting for shorter and then longer periods.

2. Be present:

Again, if an apartment or small house is a new environment for your dog, try to stay with him as much as possible. Go out for short periods alone at first, and then lengthen them.

3. Create space:

Think storage, storage, storage when it comes to furniture. Anything that takes up space should serve as storage as well. Try to keep as much floor space open as possible.

4. Darken and lighten:

Apartments can be very dark because of the surrounding buildings. They can also get too much light if they’re high up. Drapes and special bulbs can help keep the lighting natural.

5. Establish a routine:

This is vital for dogs who have to wait to go outside. Feeding and walking times should be consistent.

6. Find a good trainer:

One trait that all good apartment dogs have — they’re not prone to be excessively vocal. If you’re having behavioral issues such as a dog who won’t stop barking, find a trainer in your area who specializes in that issue.

7. Get a bench:

A small or large bench against a windowsill gives your dog a place to jump up and observe the world — and also makes the space seem larger.

8. Hire a dog walker:

The best apartment dogs are the dogs who get adequate exercise and enrichment. For the times when you can’t get your dog out for extra exercise, a trusted dog walker is a necessity.

9. Invest in a gate:

If you have a studio or open floor plan, make sure you can put a gate up to keep your dog separated from others. Using the kitchen or bathroom often works. Also, make that space your dog’s haven with his bed and toys.

10. Juggle those balls:

It’s perfectly fine to play fetch in your apartment, as long as it’s not too early or too late. Installing rugs helps absorb the noise of dog nails. You don’t have to be at the dog park to have fun with your dog.

Get more tips for living with your dog in a city here >>

A few final thoughts on the best apartment dogs

It’s easy to find a dog who will live well in an apartment or small-house setting. Size isn’t everything — quiet, lower-energy, non-working dogs are really what make the best apartment dogs. And if you already have a dog who needs to adapt to a small space, remember: If our dogs are with us and we’re happy, they’re happy, too. Rather than fretting over sharing a small space, look at it as a bonding experience. After all, tripping over each other is just a game of tag, if you look at it that way.

Tell us: Do you live in an apartment with a dog? What do you think of our tips? What other breeds — or mixes — should be on the best apartment dogs list? Let us know in the comments!

Thumbnail: Photography by berndstuhlmann/Thinkstock.

This piece was originally published in 2015. 

Read more about dogs and apartment living on Dogster.com:

• City Dogs: 5 Dog Breeds for 5 Major Metropolises
• Cats and Dogs in Apartments: 5 Tips for Getting Along
• Dog Laws Every Pup Parent Should Know

The post The 10 Best Apartment Dogs Might Surprise You by Kelly Pulley appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

All the Proceeds From Carolyne Roehm’s New Jewelry Line Will Benefit Dog and Cat Shelters

The post All the Proceeds From Carolyne Roehm’s New Jewelry Line Will Benefit Dog and Cat Shelters by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Style icon and lifestyle maven Carolyne Roehm recently combined her two greatest loves, dogs and design, to create her second jewelry collection The Birds and the Bees.

All proceeds will go directly to her Going to the Dogs initiative, benefitting dog and cat shelters across the United States. The collection comprises 18 classic, quality, statement pieces and includes bracelets, cuffs, necklaces, earrings, belts and a pin, using the finest materials like 18k gold plating, pewter, brass and Swarovski crystals.

Learn more about this beautiful, new collection and the Going to the Dogs initiative at carolyneroehm.com.

Read Next: Turn a Favorite Photo of Your Dog Into a Beautiful Charm

The post All the Proceeds From Carolyne Roehm’s New Jewelry Line Will Benefit Dog and Cat Shelters by Annie Butler Shirreffs appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

This Company Creates Hearing Protection for Military Dogs

The post This Company Creates Hearing Protection for Military Dogs by Jackie Brown appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

From gunfire to helicopters, military working dogs are exposed to loud noises while training and performing their jobs. Have you ever wondered if military dogs wear ear protection?

Zeteo Tech, Inc., and Pete “Skip” Scheifele MD, PhD, a retired Navy lieutenant commander, professor at the University of Cincinnati and leading animal audiology expert, partnered together to create the Canine Auditory Protection System (CAPS). Intended to prevent short-term hearing loss in working dogs, the CAPS fits snuggly over the head like a snood. The CAPS is easy for handlers to put on dogs, lightweight and flexible, so as not to hinder the dogs’ performance.

Top Photograph: Zeteo Tech

Read Next: U.S. Marine Brings Home Dog from Afghanistan

The post This Company Creates Hearing Protection for Military Dogs by Jackie Brown appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

Can Dogs Eat Carrots? Are Carrots Good for Dogs?

The post Can Dogs Eat Carrots? Are Carrots Good for Dogs? by Jessica Pineda appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

All pup parents know that there are some vegetables that dogs can eat, and some veggies that are best avoided. Carrots are healthy for humans, but can dogs eat carrots? If dogs can eat carrots, are carrots good for dogs? And is there anything you should keep in mind when feeding carrots to your dog? Let’s find out!

First, Can Dogs Eat Carrots?

Can dogs eat carrots? Let’s take a look. Photography ©PK-Photos | E+ / Getty Images.

The short answer to “Can dogs eat carrots?” is good news. The better news is that not only can dogs eat carrots, but carrots are actually very healthy for dogs. Experts everywhere say carrots are amazing, healthy snacks for our canine friends. Dr. Evan Antin of Conejo Valley Veterinary Hospital in Thousand Oaks, California, agrees. “Carrots are great,” he says. “I feed them to my [dog] Henry every day! They offer a low-calorie source of extra food for hungry dogs, are high in fiber and also help to slow down the progression of dental disease.”

Let’s examine some specifics about carrots for dogs next.

Can Dogs Eat Carrots for Health Benefits?

Now that we’ve answered, “Can dogs eat carrots?” let’s look at some of the benefits for dogs eating carrots. Carrots for dogs are a great source of fiber, antioxidants and vitamin A. While everything in carrots is great, vitamin A is crucial in maintaining overall health, for both dogs and humans. For dogs, vitamin A is essential for bone growth, reproduction, cellular differentiation and a good immune response. That’s according to the study “Safety evaluation of vitamin A in growing dogs,” published in the British Journal of Nutrition.

Carrots are also great for keeping a dog’s eyes healthy and his vision sharp. According to the Dogster article, 7 Foods That Will Naturally Support Your Dog’s Vision, when your dog eats carrots, he’s “getting a serious boost of beta-carotene, potassium, niacin, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K. Better yet, carrots are loaded with lycopene and lutein — essential phytonutrients that may help protect eyes from free-radical damage and UVB radiation.”

Can Dogs Eat Carrots for Better Dental Health?

Veterinarians recommend you brush your dog’s teeth daily, but that isn’t always easy for pet parents to do. Some dogs just don’t want their teeth touched, so experts recommend you try to brush your dog’s teeth at least once or week, or a minimum of once a month.

However, when you can’t brush your dog’s teeth, carrots will help polish your dog’s pearly whites and combat plaque build-up. As author Julia Szabo writes in the Dogster article, A Dog Dental Care Guide for Lazy Pet Owners, “If your dog will eat veggies (I’m lucky; my health-nut hounds love munching out on veggies), by all means hand out treats of raw or lightly steamed carrots.”

On the plus side, while your dog is chewing on carrots and cleaning his teeth, he’s also eating a food that helps his teeth stay healthy from the inside, too.

Can Dogs Eat Carrots As Treats?

It’s so easy to overdo it on giving out treats to your dog. In fact, you only have to look at the stats. The Association of Pet Obesity Prevention 2016 clinical survey found that 53.9 percent of dogs are overweight or obese. With that extra weight comes a greater risk that your dog will develop certain diseases, such as diabetes or respiratory problems.

That’s why it’s refreshing that your dog can eat carrots as a low-fat alternative to regular dog treats.

How to Feed Carrots to Your Dog

Does how your dog eats carrots matter? Photography ©bzanchi | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Now that we’ve established some guidelines and answers for “Can dogs eat carrots?” let’s look at how to feed your dog carrots. How you feed carrots to your dog largely depends on your dog’s breed and your own personal preferences. For smaller dogs, you’ll want to give them sliced or baby carrots, so they can break the carrots apart easily without choking on them. I usually give whole carrots to my German Shepherd Dogs, which they break apart in pieces or wrap their paws around to chew on, like sticks.

Can dogs eat carrots that are cooked or raw? That depends. Dr. Antin recommends feeding raw, peeled carrots to dogs, while other experts recommend feeding cooked carrots so your dog is able to get properly digest the nutrition from them. Studies have shown that humans who eat cooked, pureed carrots better absorb beta-carotene, the precursor of vitamin A.

Tell us: Does your dog like carrots? How does he eat them?

This piece was originally published in 2018.

Find out more answers to your “Can dogs eat…” questions on Dogster.com:

Can dogs eat …

• Almonds, Peanuts, Pistachios and Other Nuts?
• Apples, Grapes and Strawberries?
• Cheese? How About Other Dairy Products?

The post Can Dogs Eat Carrots? Are Carrots Good for Dogs? by Jessica Pineda appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

Dog Pacing – Why It Happens and How to Help Your Pacing Dog

The post Dog Pacing – Why It Happens and How to Help Your Pacing Dog by Stephanie Osmanski appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Just how pacing in humans is often associated with restlessness or anxiety, dogs might begin pacing if feeling anxious or experiencing stress. In most cases, dog pacing is not a serious health issue — rather, merely a behavioral response to general nervousness or anxiety.

“When a dog paces they are usually walking back and forth from one spot to another,” says Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM. “Sometimes they will just be walking around the house without a destination in mind.”

Dogs might pace while waiting for someone or something — like for a family member to come home or waiting for mealtime. Some dogs pace for awhile with a high-value toy or treat in their mouth and may even whine. Because dog pacing isn’t technically a medical issue, “treatment” is all about helping your dog feel more comfortable. The more comfortable a dog is, the less likely he is to feel anxious. If the anxiety is targeted and treated, then the dog might stop pacing.

“It is easy to identify a dog who has a pacing problem. A dog is pacing when she is walking back and forth in a repetitive pattern,” says Amanda Gagnon, certified professional dog trainer and graduate researcher of anthrozoology at Canisius College. “When pacing occurs for a short period of time, it is nothing to worry about. However, if a dog paces for an extended length of time or cannot be deterred from the activity, it may be time to call a professional dog trainer.”

Some kinds of pacing are considered normal and most can be treated with the help of a training specialist, who can provide easy solutions to distract the dog and discourage pacing.

“Normal dog pacing is usually caused by excitement, the need for attention or an alert to something unusual in the environment,” says Kristen Papile-Kranjc, CMDT, of Long Island Canine Class. “This type of pacing can be addressed by a dog trainer or behavioral specialist. Distraction techniques such as giving the dog a high-value toy or bone that he doesn’t see often to keep him busy, playing with your dog or taking him out for a walk are some simple solutions.”

Why does dog pacing happen?

According to Dr. Ochoa, pacing in dogs is generally caused by stress or anxiety. However, sources of anxiety and stress could be a variety of things: trips to the vet, waiting for someone or something to happen, having to pee or poop, or general restlessness.

“Most dogs will pace at home or at the vet clinic,” Dr. Ochoa explains. “At home, they may pace back and forth near the front door waiting for a family member to come home. They may pace near the back door when they need to go out and potty.”

The vet’s office is often a source of stress for dogs — you know, shots and other weird instruments, and whatnot. This can cause some stressed dogs to respond by pacing.

“At the veterinary clinic, dogs will pace when they want to go home,” Dr. Ochoa adds. “I see dogs who do not like to be at the vet. They will pace back and forth in the exam room or the waiting room the whole time they are there.”

The older the dog, the more likely they are to develop pacing behaviors. In older dogs, pacing could be a sign of dementia.

“As some dogs age, they start pacing around the house and act more stressed due to them not always knowing where they are,” Dr. Ochoa adds. “We do see signs similar to dementia in dogs and as they age, they will begin to pace more.”

Pacing can also be an early sign of some medical issues that require immediate treatment. According to Dr. Jason Nicholas, author of 101 Essential Tips: Dog Health & Safety, pacing can indicate a bloating issue.

“If your dog’s stomach is bloated, or if they’re anxious, pacing, or repeatedly trying to vomit with no luck, they are likely suffering from Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GDV) – also known as dog bloat,” Dr. Nicholas explains. “Dogs affected by bloat will have a difficult time getting comfortable and lying down. Pacing and restless is often one of the most obvious and early signs, so pay attention to it.”

Dogs can pace for a variety of other reasons, too; stress, anxiety, and bloat aren’t the only causes.

“Dogs will also pace because they are bored or carry excessive energy,” says Gagnon. “Less common reasons for pacing are mating behaviors, attention-seeking behaviors and medical issues. Humans can often determine whether a trip to the vet is needed by attending to other accompanying symptoms such as lethargy, mood changes and loss of appetite.”

How to help your pacing dog

Pinpointing the cause of your dog’s pacing is important to helping your pet. If your dog is carrying excess energy or suffering from boredom, Gagnon says it’s an easy fix.

“This is easily fixed by adding exercise and mental stimulation to the dog’s daily routine,” Gagnon explains.

Or if your dog is pacing as a way to patrol their yard, Gagnon recommends limiting their yard time.

“Some dogs, particularly dogs who spend their day in a yard, develop a habit of pacing as a way of patrolling the boundary of their yard,” Gagnon adds. “This behavior is best prevented by limiting the amount of time the dog spends along in the yard without their humans.”

For dogs who pace because of stress and anxiety, Gagnon recommends training classes.

“Stress and anxiety often require the assistance of a professional trainer to remedy,” she says.

Other remedies for treating stress-induced pacing include showing your dog that everything’s okay.

“If your dog is pacing because they are waiting for someone to come home, helping calm them or letting them out to play will help with the pacing at home. If it is due to aging, there are supplements that you can give your dog to help with the anxiety,” says Dr. Ochoa. “At the vet clinic, you can give your pet treats and help show them that it is an okay place to be.”

In all cases though, Dr. Ochoa says knowing your dog’s pacing triggers is the biggest way to help. “If you know what causes your pet to pace, you can avoid the situations. Sometimes you cannot avoid these situations, or the pacing is due to your dog getting older. There are supplements that you can give your dog to help with anxiety and stress.”

Because so many different factors can influence pacing in dogs, Papile-Kranjc says the best advice is knowing your dog’s normal behavior. Anything unusual might warrant a visit to the veterinarian’s office.

“Pacing can also be a symptom of a health issue due to a disorder, advanced age or illness,” Papile-Kranjc explains. “Know your dog. Be familiar with your dog’s behavior and also keep current with his veterinary care. Anything sudden or out of the ordinary to his regular behavior that is not alleviated by training or behavior modification techniques should be addressed by a veterinarian.”

How do you address dog pacing with your pets? Let us know in the comments below!

Top photograph: Vincent Scherer/Getty Images

 

Learn more about anxiety in dogs on dogster.com:

• 7 Means of Dog Anxiety Treatment
• Do You Have a Stressed Dog? Let’s Talk Stress in Dogs
• How I Help My Dog With Her Fear and Anxiety Issues

The post Dog Pacing – Why It Happens and How to Help Your Pacing Dog by Stephanie Osmanski appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

What Are the Best Farm Dogs?

The post What Are the Best Farm Dogs? by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Unless you are a student of agricultural history and trends, you might not know that a substantial number of domestic dog breeds were originally developed as working farm dogs. We tend to think of dogs primarily as friends, companions or family members, and not as essential components of the process by which we obtain our food. Prior to the start of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, however, every animal raised in rural and farming communities — including fowls, livestock and dogs — played practical, integral roles in the food system.

When we mention farm dogs, you may think specifically of medium or large canines who herd sheep, cattle, or pigs. During a more agrarian era, dogs of all sizes and breeds found employment on farms. Despite the fact that most of us live at several degrees from farm life, the variety of farm dogs and their functions has not changed. When we try, then, to determine or narrow down the best farm dogs, we need to take under consideration both the range of dog breeds and the tasks required of them. The general categories of working dog jobs include:

• Guarding livestock
• Herding farm animals
• Ratters / pest control
• Multipurpose dogs

A Great Pyrenees is among the best farm dogs. Photography by Shutterstock.

Livestock guardians

Thinking of farm dogs may immediately evoke images of our first two categories; specifically large, hardy dogs who monitor and protect vulnerable livestock. Livestock farming encompasses a wide range of birds and beasts raised for the meat, milk, eggs, wool or skin. A farmer or rancher cannot possibly watch flocks or herds while attending to all of their other duties.

For centuries, dogs of all sizes, types, and breeds have dedicated themselves to caring for cattle, sheep and goats. The best guard dogs are those who blend in effectively with their charges, defend them from predators, and be attentive day or night as required. Breeds involved in livestock protection tend to cut a large and imposing figure, possess a stentorian bark, and depend on either intimidation or surprise in their work.

Notable livestock guardians include:

• Anatolian Shepherd
• Great Pyrenees
• Komondor
• Maremma Sheepdog
• Mastiff (Neapolitan, Spanish, and Tibetan)

German Shepherds were bred to be farm dogs, or herding dogs specifically. Photography by smikeymikey1 / Shutterstock.

Herding dogs

Another common type of canine associated with bucolic life is the herding dog. The term may conjure pastoral poems and idyllic landscape paintings that depict a lone shepherd overlooking a field under a summer sky with a trusty dog by his side. It’s a misnomer to associate them exclusively with cattle or sheep, though, since their herds and flocks are just as likely to be populated by chickens, ducks, goats, llamas, and pigs.

Effective herding dogs are capable of leading these farm animals out to pasture in the morning, and back to the safety of the pen or coop in the evening. Highly trained farm dogs respond without hesitation to commands, gestures, and sounds. Dogs who are good herders are both agile and alert, but don’t have to be huge. We may think of Corgis as amusing companions and pets, but they were originally developed in Wales for their skill in herding. They could encourage bulky ungulates to get a move on while their small stature helped avoid the kick of a hoof.

Among the best herding dogs:

• Australian Cattle Dog
• Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael, Laekenois, Malinois, and Tervueren)
• Border Collie
• German Shepherd
• Old English Sheepdog
• Rottweiler
• Welsh Corgi (Cardigan and Pembroke)

Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred to be farm dogs. Photography by By Yazmin Mellado / Shutterstock.

Rat dogs

As vital as they are to livestock farming, protection and herding are not the only jobs that working farm dogs hold. Dogs are just as important on farms that produce fruits, vegetables, and grains. Even on livestock farms, risks to productivity and inventory are not limited to live animals. Farm dogs can be critical to controlling pest populations. An unwelcome infestation — and really, what kind of infestation is welcome? — might destroy a crop in the field, steal harvested foodstuffs in storage, or devour eggs.

Keeping farm products safe from pests is largely the province of small, energetic, and tenacious dogs. Like the term “cattle dog,” to call these dogs “ratters” is to sell them short. Yes, they are expert at tracking and catching rodents, rats and mice primarily, but also badgers, ferrets, possums, raccoons, stoats, and so forth. Many of the best ratting dogs were developed throughout the United Kingdom in the 18th and 19th centuries, and among them are some of the most popular modern domestic breeds.

The best ratters and pest control dogs include:

• Brussels Griffon
• Dachshund
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Miniature Pinscher
• Rat Terrier
• West Highland White Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier

Some of the best farm dogs are all-purpose

Some dogs herd, some dogs offer protection, while yet others still are experts at loss-prevention and rodent control. Surely that covers the gamut of what dogs do on farms! Wrong! Many of the best farm dogs, from ancient times to the present, have been capable of handling these tasks and more. Large and giant dog breeds, in particular, have proven adept at herding, guarding, and pest control.

Even tasks we typically associate with pack animals like mules, horses, and oxen, were, in less civilized ages, done by dogs. Fortunately, these days, carting is more of an occasional and specialist sport than a full-time occupation. Dogs who once served as draught animals included Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and the Swiss Mountain Dog family (Appenzell, Bernese, Entelbucher, and Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs).

Urban farms need dogs, too!

Urban farming has taken off in recent decades as organizations and individuals have attempted to address a growing need for fresh produce in cities that doesn’t have to be trucked in over large distances. These farms also serve the demand of restaurateurs to increase their focus on locally sourced fruits and vegetables, and supply community supported agriculture services in delivering food to people interested in circumventing chain grocery stores. Dogs are present on some of these urban farms as well, mostly serving in companion roles.

A further variant, hobby farming, has also exploded in popularity. Hobby farms have sprung up everywhere from small yards in urban areas, where they replace otherwise useless lawns, to rural plots maintained by weekend and part-time gardeners. In places like these, dogs of all sizes are still performing slight variations on their traditional roles, from pest control and crop protection to herding backyard chickens. Dogs have been employed, trusted, and loved on farms as long as there have been farms. Long may it remain so!

Top photograph: Shutterstock

Read more: 

• Dogs Who Howl: 5 Dog Breeds Known for Howling
• 5 Large Breeds That Make Good Apartment Dogs
• 5 Dog Breeds That Welcome Winter

 

The post What Are the Best Farm Dogs? by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

5 Wrinkly and Adorable Dog Breeds

The post 5 Wrinkly and Adorable Dog Breeds by Lynn M. Hayner appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

For humans, wrinkles are a sign of aging. People will do just about anything to avoid wrinkles, but we sure delight in wrinkly dogs. You’ll notice that many wrinkly dog breeds are short-faced (brachycephalic), too. Some may sport wrinkles as pups, while others mature into their big wrinkles. Let’s meet five wrinkly dog breeds that boast lovable, lifelong folds and furrows.

Pug

Our prominent eyes and child-like expressions make us one of the crazy-delightful wrinkly dog breeds. We’ve been around to charm humankind for centuries. Chinese imperials have cherished us since ancient times, even employing guards to keep us safe. We were bred small to be carried in royal sleeves.

Some of our wrinkles were considered more significant than others: the prince mark of three wrinkles on our forehead with a vertical bar (copying the Chinese character for prince) was a favorite trait. These days, our owners love all of our large and deep wrinkles. We suggest you dab our skin folds to keep them fresh and clean; we sure can’t reach them with our tongues!

Mastiff. Photography ©Kerry Rubio | Bark at the Moon

Mastiff

Our lined foreheads draw your gaze to our observant, kindhearted faces. When we’re particularly attentive, our wrinkles are especially distinctive. We’re one of the wrinkly dog breeds that have a long history with humans. Our forefathers worked with Babylonians, Marco Polo, Hannibal, King Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Developed to guard and fight beside soldiers, we were bred tough and striking.

We’re perhaps more easygoing than our ancestors these days, but we hold to our watchdog role. And at some 200 pounds, our size alone discourages intruders. We consider ourselves peaceful and dignified bodyguards, always loyal to loved ones. And we’ll love your wrinkles too, when someday you’re blessed to own them!

French Bulldog looking away, not interested. Photography ©LightFieldStudios | Getty Images.

French Bulldog

Our coats are brilliant, short and smooth. Our soft and loose skin is what lands us on this list of wrinkly dog breeds. And the description “delightful” suits our personalities, too. Developed from English 19th-century bulldogs, our  ancestors followed lace-makers migrating to France after the Industrial Revolution.

Friendly and affable, we soon became popular with Parisians of all economic classes. American tourists in France were enchanted by our forefathers and brought some back to the states. These days, with our laid-back personalities and keen social skills, we top the companion dog list. Come under our wrinkly spell; our furrowed brows shall charm you into dropping extra treats!

Two wrinkled Shar-Pei puppies rest side-by-side. Photography ©GlobalP | Getty Images.

Chinese Shar-Pei

If you don’t recognize us for our hippopotamus head shape, you may spot us for the impressive wrinkles that assure our spot in this roundup of wrinkly dog breeds. Slack skin and creases cover my head, neck and withers. We’re one of the oldest dog breeds. Our scowls allegedly frightened off evil spirits, but maybe deterred trespassers (in material form), too.

These days, our wrinkles are attractive, albeit not especially functional. A clean breed, we don’t shed much; our grooming needs are minimal. Simply wipe our wrinkles down on occasion to keep our skin and coats healthy.

Dogue by Shutterstock.

Dogue de Bordeaux

A French guardian célèbre, we trace our heritage to Mastiff-types developed to guard castles, hunt and fight. Everything about us is big: we have enormous hearts in our massive body. Our colossal heads are interlaced with wrinkles; our drooping cheeks accentuate our memorable appearance. The deep ropes of wrinkles on our heads are obvious at all times and make us an obvious choice for this list of wrinkly dog breeds — but they aren’t worrying frowns. At our size, what in the world could we be worried about?

Our striking appearance is just one of our attributes. We’re affectionate, wonderful watch dogs who are more agile and speedy than our physique suggests.

Tell us: Do you have a wrinkly dog? What breed(s) is he? What wrinkly dog breeds would you add to this list?

Thumbnail: Photography by Waldemar Dabrowski / Shutterstock.

This piece was originally published in 2018.

Read more about dog breeds on Dogster.com:

• All About the Breeds Behind the Westminster Group Winners
• The Best Dogs for Cats? Try These 5 Cat-Friendly Dog Breeds
• Does Your Dog Make the List of the Dumbest Dog Breeds?

The post 5 Wrinkly and Adorable Dog Breeds by Lynn M. Hayner appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com