If you are a horse lover, you might also have a soft spot in your heart for dogs. This is because dogs and horses have a lot of similar characteristics in common.
Many dogs excel at herding and make excellent livestock guardians. Some of them might prove to be wonderful companions for your horses. But remember, not all dogs are well-suited for staying close to large animals.
The dog breeds that tend to be good around horses possess physical attributes that enable them to accompany you on your horse rides. Robust and active dogs who do not get aggressive around horses are a great choice for Equestrian families.
Here are the top 9 dog breeds that are a good fit for horse owners.
Dog Breeds that Love Horse Companions
1. Golden Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 24 inches
Weight: 55 to 75 pounds
Energy Level: Active
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
This happy-go-lucky dog breed is known for its gentle and friendly nature. Golden Retrievers are friendly and sociable canines who love getting along with people and other animals, including horses. Due to their easygoing personalities, they are less likely to scare a horse.
Having an eager-to-please nature, Golden Retrievers can accompany you on trail rides. These devoted pups love getting treats and can keep you and your horses entertained as long as they stay with you. Goldens are active dogs.
They require at least two hours of exercise every day. According to PDSA, exercise includes walking, running, and play sessions.
2. Corgi
Breed Profile
Height: 10 to 12 inches
Weight: Around 30 inches
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Lifespan: 12 to 13 years
Corgis are tenacious dogs with strong herding instincts. Originally bred for herding cattle, they can effectively manage large animals like horses. These loyal and high-energy dogs will happily accompany you while riding.
Corgis have two variants: Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Both are medium-sized, muscular dogs who do well as watchdogs. This horse-compatible breed keeps its owners entertained with its playful antics.
Their bold personalities also make them well-suited for working around horses. The American Kennel Club recommends moderate daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
Breed Profile
Height: 10 to 12 inches
Weight: 9 to 15 pounds
Energy Level: High
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs full of energy and courage. They are fearless and agile dogs, which makes them well-suited for horse owners. They are curious and active, and enjoy roaming in the barnyard.
Their history as hunting dogs makes them ideal for outings with horses. However, due to their high energy levels. Plus, they are Terriers, so they bark excessively, dig, and have a tendency to chase. Therefore, you have to train them properly so that they do not get excited around horses.
They need one hour of exercise every day, which should be split into short walks.
4. Rottweiler
Breed Profile
Height: 22 to 27 inches
Weight: 80 to 135 pounds
Energy Level: Calm
Lifespan: 9 to 10 years
A Rottweiler’s presence can scare away potential threats, so they make excellent guard dogs. Their intelligence, loyalty, strong protective instincts, and ability to behave well around horses make them a great choice for horse owners.
These affectionate and playful family pets have moderate energy levels, so they do not need extensive exercise. They need proper training and socialization to adapt well to Equestrian families. This breed is not recommended for first-time pet parents.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
Breed Profile
Height: 23 to 27.5 inches
Weight: 70 to 115 pounds
Energy Level: Calm
Lifespan: 7 to 10 years
Bernese Mountain dogs are the epitome of strength and gentleness. Loyalty and calmness are the predominant personality traits. Due to these traits, they are well-suited to work closely with horses and other animals.
Bernese mountain dogs are steady, dependent, and family-oriented. Originally bred as working dogs to protect livestock on farms, they are of great value on the farm or ranch. They need one hour of exercise every day.
Short walks, play time, and plenty of training can help provide physical and mental stimulation. Their thick double coat requires regular grooming.
6. Great Pyrenees
Breed Profile
Height: 25 to 32 inches
Weight: Over 85 pounds
Energy Level: Calm
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Great Pyrenees are a great choice for horsemen and ranchers with property, goat, sheep, and horses. These working dogs do a great job at protecting livestock against predators such as coyotes, cougars, bears, and eagles.
However, their large size makes them difficult to travel with. These calm dogs bond closely with their humans. They can guard herds of horses, thanks to their intelligence and large size. They have a weatherproof coat that allows them to ride through any season.
According to PetMD, the Great Pyrenees is a low-energy dog that does not require an active lifestyle. Take your pup for two daily walks of 20 to 30 minutes each.
7. German Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 50 to 90 pounds
Energy Level: Active
Lifespan: 7 to 10 years
One of the most popular dog breeds, German Shepherds are known for their versatility and loyalty. Their strong protective instincts allow them to serve as excellent guard dogs. They are highly trainable and make wonderful companions in the stable or on trail rides.
They have a strong desire to please their owners and form strong bonds with them. You can train them to respect the space of horses. GSDs are highly intelligent, responsible, and versatile dogs. They are naturally energetic.
German Shepherds require regular training and exercise to stay happy and healthy. These are agile and muscular dogs of noble character.
8. Australian Cattle Dog
Breed Profile
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 35 to 50 pounds
Energy Level: Active
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Australian Cattle Dog, also known as Blue Heeler, is a hardworking dog that thrives in a stable or ranch environment. Originally bred to herd cattle, they have the stamina, endurance, and drive needed to work closely with horses.
They are known for their intelligence and loyalty. Their protective nature makes them wonderful companions in the field and around the barn. They are the good travelers—if you are a horse owner who often has to be on the road, you can opt for an Australian cattle dog.
These dogs have high energy levels. They need approximately two hours of exercise every day. Physical activity may include a quick walk or play time in the yard.
9. Australian Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 23 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Energy Level: Hyper
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Australian Shepherds are agile and highly intelligent dogs. They were originally bred as herding dogs; these hardworking dogs make amazing companions for horses. They happily protect the cattle as they like to be busy.
These highly trainable dogs have the stamina to keep up with horses. Aussies form close bonds with one or two people, so they make sure to stay close to you during the rides. These medium-sized dogs make life at the stable fun!
Australian Shepherds are high-energy dogs who never slow down. They need at least two 45-minute walks every day.
Conclusion
Many canine buddies possess the temperament and stamina that make them well-suited for ranch life. If you are planning to adopt a dog breed that makes an excellent companion for Equestrian families, make sure to train them properly and socialize them at an early age. Lastly, treat your dog with love and affection!
