Do you suffer from ophidiophobia (fear of snakes)? If you do, you may want to prevent meeting a venomous snake while you are out for a hike. The report by WHO claims that around 81,410 to 137,880 people die each year from venomous snake bites around the world.
Countries like Australia are infested with these venomous snakes. But if you have the right canine companion by your side, you might just prevent an encounter with your fear.
In this blog, we will explore 7 dog breeds that can guard against deadly snakes. These dog breeds not only offer loyalty and companionship but also have the skills to take on dangerous snakes when needed.
Dog Breeds That Can Guard Against Venomous Snakes
1. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier, also known as “King of Terriers,” is a dog breed known for its intelligence, courage, and strength. Airedale Terrier is one of the most versatile dog breeds in the world, known for excelling as a hunter, a skilled athlete, and a loyal companion.
Height: 23 inches
Weight: 50 – 70 pounds
Life Span: 11 – 14 years
Temperament: Working dog, hunter, stubborn
Since Airedales have a natural hunting instinct, which makes them a great dog breed when detecting snakes. Their large size and strong build give them an advantage when defending against a poisonous snake.
In addition, they can be trained to stay away from snakes when you’re out on the hike or to alert you when they sense one nearby. You can enjoy nature while this furry bodyguard is by your side.
Airedales are gentle and patient with children, yet fearless when it comes to protecting their home and loved ones. Renowned for their versatile, courageous spirit, they thrive in a variety of dog sports and family adventures alike.
2. Australian Terrier
The Australian terriers, also known as Aussies, are small in size, but they are a mighty dog breed. Don’t judge this dog breed by its size; Australian terriers are full of energy and tenacity.
Height: 10 – 11 inches
Weight: 15 – 20 pounds
Lifespan: 11 – 15 years
Temperament: Alert, aggressive, and spirited
Australian terriers are originally bred to hunt small pests, and snakes are no exception. Since they have a sharp sense of smell and excellent hearing, which helps them detect venomous snakes from a distance.
These little dogs are so loyal that they’ll put themselves in harm’s way just to protect you. It’s a delight to have such a fearless little friend taking care of you. You can rely on Australian terriers when they come across a snake.
3. Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers are known for their feisty personalities. They are small, but with a huge attitude. These dogs have a long history of hunting vermin and snakes, as per Orvis.
Height: 10 inches (male) & 9.5 inches (female)
Weight: 14 pounds (male) & 13 pounds (female)
Lifespan: 13 – 15 years
Temperament: Active working dogs
Cairn Terriers are dog owners’ first choice due to their quick response time while dealing with snakes. Like most terrier breeds, they are affectionate with their owners and can sacrifice themselves in the line of your defense.
Owning a Cairn Terrier means sharing your life with a spirited best friend who is not just a loyal companion but a source of happiness and laughter. Their intense love and spirit make every day brighter, and they have a fantastic ability to turn the simplest moments into lovely memories.
4. Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their long body and short legs, are also known as the sausage dog. They might seem harmless, but they’re actually quite capable in terms of guarding you from deadly land snakes.
Height: 8 – 9 inches (standard) & 5 – 6 inches (miniature)
Weight: 16 – 32 pounds (standard) & 11 pounds or under (miniature)
Lifespan: 12 – 16 years
Temperament: Playful, stubborn, and determined
The Dachshunds are originally bred to hunt badgers, snakes, and other crawlers too. With their strong sense of smell, they can smell most snakes from a distance, from rattlesnakes to coral snakes, and they can kill snakes with ease.
Dachshunds are determined hunters, and with proper training, they can be reliable in detecting and confronting snakes. People with ophidiophobia should prefer them over other breeds on this list.
5. German Pinscher
Not all dogs are meant to hunt, but the German Pinscher is born to hunt. With their robust build and slim body, they become an ultimate machine that kills snakes easily.
Height: 17 – 20 inches
Weight: 25 – 45 pounds
Lifespan: 12 – 14 years
Temperament: Energetic, spirited, and loving
Although all the breeds on this list are perfect for families with children, due to their intense focus and high drive, German Pinschers may not be the best fit for homes with very young children without proper socialization. This breed can be easily trained with specific commands to deal with dangerous snakes.
All in all, you can say that having a German Pinscher by your side is like having a well-trained soldier with you, so you don’t have to worry about snake bites in the wild and in your backyard anymore.
6. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier is one of the small dog breeds known for their energy and enthusiasm. Jack Russell, also known as JRT, has a distinctive look with bushy eyebrows and a beard. Despite their small size and adorable expressions, Jack Russells are fearless and tireless hunters.
Height: 10 – 12 inches
Weight: 13 – 17 pounds
Lifespan: 12 – 16 years
Temperament: Stubborn, intelligent, fearless, and athletic
This breed has a strong instinct to wander, dig, and explore, always on the lookout for something to play with or chase. While naturally curious and energetic, it’s also quite affectionate and generally welcoming toward strangers.
JRT is one of the terrier breeds that always look out for something to chase, and snakes are like their prey to catch and hunt. Like other terrier breeds, they are so loyal to their owners and can do anything to protect them.
7. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer, also known as the Dwarf Schnauzer, is a charming and one of the most intelligent breeds. They have a distinctive look and are born with an instinct to kill snakes. These dogs are very alert and have a good sense of smell.
Height: 12 – 14 inches
Weight: 11 – 20 pounds
Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
Temperament: Alert, spirited, obedient, and intelligent
Schnauzers are originally bred to hunt rodents and other small pests, and they can easily mingle with humans and kids. With their agility to encounter and hunt snakes, they are your ultimate protective walls against dangerous snakes.
It’s your best choice to make the Miniature Schnauzer your companion against snake threats. Think about having this cute little dog breed watching over your whole family, making sure no snakes get close to you.
Conclusion
They said a dog is a person’s best friend; indeed, they are. These seven dog breeds can sniff and hunt venomous snakes like copperheads and cobras. Whether you’re out enjoying the wildlife or relaxing in the house, having one of these dogs by your side gives you peace of mind. From big and brave Airedale Terriers to cute little Miniature Schnauzers, there’s a dog for everyone.
So, if you want a companion that could be beneficial when encountering venomous beasts, consider having one of these breeds. Who knows may be your dog could save your life one day.
