Dogs have been helping humans with farm work for several decades. Some dog breeds adapt to country living better than others. They excel in farm work such as protecting livestock, guarding the farm, and assisting farmers in their duties.
Dogs that were originally bred to work on farms have certain traits that distinguish them from other breeds. For instance, they prefer having a job and need a lot of physical exercise to channel their energy.
Large dogs make excellent farm dogs because they get ample space at farms to stretch their legs and explore. These loyal and affectionate canines provide a sense of security to their owners living on a farm.
Here are the top 7 large dog breeds that make ideal pets for country living.
Best Large Dog Breeds for Rural Living
1. Komondor
Breed Profile
Height: More than 25.5 inches
Weight: More than 80 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, independent
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
The Komondors, also known as mop dogs, are big dogs hailing from Hungary. According to WebMD, their size and muscular build make them popular protective dogs. Komondors were originally bred to guard sheep and cattle.
Komondors have a sheep-like appearance, but they were not meant to blend in with the flock. Instead, their large coats are perfect for protecting them against harsh weather. These independent watchdogs are fiercely loyal to their humans.
Komondors are not high-energy dogs and do not require intense exercise. However, they need ample space to roam. They are not well-suited for city life. Komondors are the country dogs who need regular walks and free time in a fenced yard.
2. Central Asian Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 22.5 to 27.5 inches
Weight: 88 to 110 pounds
Temperament: Fearless and independent
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
One of the first dog breeds to ever exist, Central Asian Shepherds are large-sized dogs, known for their territorial and possessive nature. They enjoy getting a lot of attention from their humans. Their intimidating size, protective instincts, and intelligence make them ideal guard dogs.
Central Asian Shepherds are highly adaptable dogs who thrive well in rural and suburban settings. On a farm, they get ample space to stretch and exercise regularly. These dogs are generally quiet but bark to inform their owners about the potential dangers.
Central Asian Shepherds have a thick double coat that sheds a lot, especially during seasonal changes. However, they are low-maintenance dogs and require brushing once or twice a week to prevent tangles and matting.
3. Boerboel
Breed Profile
Height: 22 to 27 inches
Weight: Up to 200 pounds
Temperament: Calm and docile
Lifespan: 9 to 11 years
Boerboels are fierce, large dogs with a calm demeanor. Originally bred as aggressive defenders, they are able to distinguish friend from foe. Their intimidating size, muscled bodies, and strong legs make them ideal for country living.
According to the American Kennel Club, the name “boerboel” has an African origin, and it roughly translates to “farmer’s dog.” Hailing from South Africa, these versatile dogs serve the farmers as hunting dogs, attack dogs, and guard dogs.
Boerboels are intelligent pups that are not impossible to train. But they can become willful and dominant in the absence of consistent and firm training. Despite having a gentle and affectionate nature, these dogs are not suitable for novice pet parents since they need to be socialized from a young age.
4. Maremma Sheepdog
Breed Profile
Height: 23.5 to 28.75 inches
Weight: 66 to 100 pounds
Temperament: Loyal and independent
Lifespan: 11 to 12 years
The Maremma sheepdog is a large and heavy Italian dog with its history dating back 2,000 years. In the past, they served as flock guardians. Due to their historical lineage, these dogs are independent, intelligent, and suspicious of strangers.
This is a strong and muscular dog with a rustic appearance. They have a solid build, rounded chests, sturdy legs, and thick necks. Being highly alert and courageous, they make excellent guard dogs who will protect your farm from all sorts of potential dangers.
Maremma Sheepdog thrives in outdoor environments where they can patrol and protect the property. It can adapt well to rural settings where it gets enough space to roam around and exercise.
Always provide your Maremma Sheepdog with sufficient mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and content.
5. Tibetan Mastiff
Breed Profile
Height: More than 24 inches
Weight: 70 to 150 pounds
Temperament: Loyal and aloof
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
The lion-like Tibetan mastiffs are one of the largest dogs that stand more than 24 inches tall and weigh around 70 to 150 pounds, explains PetMD. They were bred to protect homesteads and livestock in the Himalayas in the past. Now, they have become family pets.
Their loyal and protective nature, calm demeanor, and alertness make them wonderful guard dogs. They do well in large spaces and yards secured with a fence where they can wander freely and get enough room to stretch and exercise.
Tibetan Mastiffs have moderate energy levels, and they need an hour of daily exercise to stay happy and content. A confined or bored Tibetan Mastiff may become destructive or anxious. It might end up chewing or digging. For this reason, Tibetan Mastiffs are not well-suited for apartment dwellers.
6. Turkish Kangal
Breed Profile
Height: 27 to 33 inches
Weight: 90 to 145 pounds
Temperament: Gentle and affectionate
Lifespan: 10 to 13 years
Turkish Kangal dog is a large dog with a well-balanced structure. Their strong head, muscular build, and athletic nature. Originating from Turkey, Kangals were used to protect livestock. Some people also believe that they were meant to protect villagers against bears and other predators.
Turkish Kangal dogs are active working dogs having a natural inclination towards outdoor activity. They are highly valued in rural and suburban areas because of their loyalty and bravery. Akyazi et al. stated that Shepherds keep Kangals with the livestock from an early age.
As a result, they form strong bonds with the herd, leading to their “guarding dog behavior.” Trustworthiness, protective instincts, and attentiveness are the distinguishing traits of these dogs. They need an hour of daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
7. Anatolian Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 27 to 29 inches
Weight: 80 to 150 pounds
Temperament: Aloof
Lifespan: 11 to 13 years
The large and powerful livestock guardians from the rural areas of Turkey, the Anatolian Shepherd dogs, are known for their strong and muscular build. These dogs are calm and independent with strong protective instincts.
They are highly territorial and can intimidate intruders with their large size. They have loyal and easygoing personalities. These traits make Anatolian Shepherds ideal canines for people who love country life.
Anatolian Shepherds are vocal dogs who bark frequently. Due to their large space requirements and excessive barking, they are well-suited as pets for individuals living on farms. They have moderate energy levels and need two hours of daily exercise, including long walks and vigorous running.
Conclusion
Many dogs are more suitable for rural and country life due to their large size, strong muscular build, and large space requirements. Some large dog breeds suitable for rural living include Border Collie, Afghan Hound, Australian Cattle Dog, and others mentioned in the article.
Are you dreaming of spending your country life with a canine companion? Choose your pet from the aforementioned breeds and train them properly before adopting. Give them the much-needed care and love!
