#1: Australian Cattle Dogs

Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to herd cattle by gently biting their feet. Thus, this breed is sometimes also referred to as a heeler. These dogs are extremely loyal to their owners and protective of their territory. They’re not only ideal for managing livestock, but also for watching over the farm at night. Like all working dogs, Australian Cattle Dogs need plenty of room to run and appropriate training to manage aggression.

#2: Corgis

Corgis love their owners, but they have a strong independent streak. This makes them ideal farm dogs: they’ll be happy to see you, but they’ll also enjoy roaming your property on their own throughout the day. They were bred to herd cattle, so despite their small size, the corgi is a tough, courageous breed. Corgis also make excellent guard animals, and their bark resembles that of a much larger dog.

#3: Border Collies

This British dog breed is happiest on a farm, where it can work hard and stay active. Collies are considered by many to be the most intelligent breed of dog in the world. This intelligence causes them to be easily bored in cramped environments. On a farm with cattle and other livestock to herd, space to run, and a variety of landscape features, collies can be trained to perform amazing athletic stunts as well as everyday tasks.

#4: Australian Kelpies

This breed is so adept at herding livestock that many dogs learn to corral sheep and cows independently, with almost no training. Kelpies are known for their keen minds and boundless energy. They’ve adapted to the harsh weather conditions of rural Australia, so they make excellent outdoor farm dogs.

#5: Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees originated in France as a herding and guard dog. They’re named for the Pyrenees Mountains, which run along the border between France and Spain. Known for their thick, snowy white coat and huge size, these dogs are typically calm and good-natured. While they’re content to stand guard over the farm as a stable, friendly presence, they’re powerful and intimidating when confronting intruders. Although they’re huge dogs, Great Pyrenees are lap dogs at heart and love to cuddle with their favorite humans!

#6: Catahoula Leopard Dogs

This breed is named for a parish in Louisiana, and it’s the official dog of the state. Bred to hunt wild pigs, Catahoula Leopard Dogs are tough, obedient and smart. They’re good with children and excellent at herding, making them an ideal pet for a family farm. They tend to be fairly independent, so they don’t mind being left alone while owners are working.

#7: Bernese Mountain Dogs

These herding dogs originated in Switzerland, and their thick, warm coat makes them comfortable in all kinds of weather. Bernese Mountain Dogs are eager to please and friendly, and they need quality time with their owners. After a long day in the fields, they’ll want to curl up with you in the living room or sleep by your bedside.

#8: Anatolian Shepherds

This giant breed can weigh in at over 150 pounds and can trace its roots back further into history than most modern breeds. They’re independent and do well roaming a large farm all day. However, this breed is also fiercely protective. It’s important to firmly establish dominance as the dog’s owner, but once you do, you’ll always be able to rely on an Anatolian Shepherd to protect you and your farm.

#9: Jack Russell Terriers

Farmhouses and barns are often faced with pest problems, particularly when rats and mice seek protection from the winter cold. Jack Russell Terriers are bred to hunt down and dig up pests wherever they hide, so they can solve an infestation problem in short order. These stubborn terriers need plenty of training and human interaction, but their hardworking, loyal nature makes them an excellent investment.

#10: Dutch Shepherds

The Dutch Shepherd is often confused with the German Shepherd breed, and they do look very similar. They can be slightly easier to train than German Shepherds, and they easily adapt to a variety of outdoor tasks. They love to herd, guard, and pull loads, and they’re tough enough to withstand most outdoor weather.