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Farm Dogs: A Comprehensive Breed Guide to 93 Guardians, Herders, Terriers, and Other Canine Working Partners
Gain a deeper understanding of your canine friends through these in-depth breed profiles that showcase how working dogs think. From familiar breeds like the Border Collie, Corgi, and Dachshund to the lesser-known Akbash, Puli, and Hovawart, Janet Vorwald Dohner describes 93 breeds of livestock guardian dogs, herding dogs, terriers, and traditional multipurpose farm dogs, highlighting the tasks each dog is best suited for and describing its physical characteristics and temperament. She also offers an accessible history of how humans bred dogs to become our partners in work and beyond, providing a thorough introduction to these highly intelligent, independent, and energetic breeds.
- GenresNonfictionDogsAnimals
352 pages, Paperback
Published October 4, 2016
17 people are currently reading
384 people want to read
About the author
Janet Vorwald Dohner
7 books14 followersI'm an author and researcher with a passion for historic livestock breeds, livestock guardians, working farm dogs, and non-lethal predator control.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 19, 2016
Review of FARM DOGS by Janet Vorwald Dohner
"Farm dogs" are not only the kind we might see in Western films, herding livestock; or in photos of the British isles, with sheepdogs guarding. Farm dogs can be many disparate breeds, sizes, and of distinct categories of abilities. Author Janet Vorwald Dohner presents a well-thought-out guidebook to this topic, which is of use to pet owners and dog lovers everywhere, as well as to those who live and work on farms. Commencing with "A Short History of Man and Dog Together," author Dohner explores the nature and qualifications of the "working dog." She then delineates several major categories including dogs to guard livestock; dogs who herd; "terriers and earthdogs"; and a category of other breeds comprising "Multifunctional and Traditional Farm Partners." When the reader has completed the book, he or she will know much about the categories of working dogs, and which breed to choose for greatest effectiveness, according to the reader's need for a "farm" dog.
"Farm dogs" are not only the kind we might see in Western films, herding livestock; or in photos of the British isles, with sheepdogs guarding. Farm dogs can be many disparate breeds, sizes, and of distinct categories of abilities. Author Janet Vorwald Dohner presents a well-thought-out guidebook to this topic, which is of use to pet owners and dog lovers everywhere, as well as to those who live and work on farms. Commencing with "A Short History of Man and Dog Together," author Dohner explores the nature and qualifications of the "working dog." She then delineates several major categories including dogs to guard livestock; dogs who herd; "terriers and earthdogs"; and a category of other breeds comprising "Multifunctional and Traditional Farm Partners." When the reader has completed the book, he or she will know much about the categories of working dogs, and which breed to choose for greatest effectiveness, according to the reader's need for a "farm" dog.
May 31, 2022
I give this book 5 stars for what it is. I have a fair number of dog encyclopedias, and enjoyed it as much or more than others I have. This one as the title says, is focused on breeds you can use on a farm or ranch and related activities. So in addition to the normal stuff you would expect from a breed book, size, temperament, history, you also have information on the breeds qualities in relation to selecting it for the type of work you may want to do on your farm with different kinds of livestock. Great info if you needed a dog on a farm, and great for those who like to fantasize about having a farm and the good aspects of that, while avoiding all the difficult work involved with it.
For those who feel rescues are the only way to go, the book does a good job about talking about considering rescues. They recommend people don't get these active working breeds unless they have a job for the dog to do, and the time to give to the dog. Unfortunately people wind up getting them when they they don't have the time or job for the dog and they wind up with rescue groups including breed specific rescue groups, so they are a good place to look to get a dog. I do however feel there is a need to have breeds that are bred for a purpose and I like keeping breeds from a historic perspective.
The history section for each breed is comprehensive enough, but I would always like more. What is different is there is also a section for recent history, affects of the wars, establishment of clubs, distribution to other countries. I liked that addition.
If you have ever tried to sit down and read a dog encyclopedia, it does get a little repetitive. Geographic areas have a need met by a dog, with differences based on the terrain. Then at some point they define the standards of the breed, sometimes with some key person. Then as the need for the work of the breed is diminished, the breed suffers. The Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGD) seemed to have the most similar histories, but in different locations. I would have preferred if they could have also added a paragraph or two of more of a story out of history, then just the high level version.
As I feel the working dogs the most interesting of breeds, then all my favorites are here. Fun to imagine owning the different breeds. Love to hear what breeds you would be interested in having. I miss my Newfoundland and would love to get another (if I can design the house for the hair and the slobber). My neighbor has a 6 month old Ruff Collie that is gorgeous. Be fun to have; a Border Collie, Belgium Malinois, Irish Terrier, Bovier des Flandres, Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog, and a Fox Terrier, but I love all the breeds. And I know that the soul of a mixed breed hoping to be rescued is as noble and worthy as any 'pure' breed dog.
For those who feel rescues are the only way to go, the book does a good job about talking about considering rescues. They recommend people don't get these active working breeds unless they have a job for the dog to do, and the time to give to the dog. Unfortunately people wind up getting them when they they don't have the time or job for the dog and they wind up with rescue groups including breed specific rescue groups, so they are a good place to look to get a dog. I do however feel there is a need to have breeds that are bred for a purpose and I like keeping breeds from a historic perspective.
The history section for each breed is comprehensive enough, but I would always like more. What is different is there is also a section for recent history, affects of the wars, establishment of clubs, distribution to other countries. I liked that addition.
If you have ever tried to sit down and read a dog encyclopedia, it does get a little repetitive. Geographic areas have a need met by a dog, with differences based on the terrain. Then at some point they define the standards of the breed, sometimes with some key person. Then as the need for the work of the breed is diminished, the breed suffers. The Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGD) seemed to have the most similar histories, but in different locations. I would have preferred if they could have also added a paragraph or two of more of a story out of history, then just the high level version.
As I feel the working dogs the most interesting of breeds, then all my favorites are here. Fun to imagine owning the different breeds. Love to hear what breeds you would be interested in having. I miss my Newfoundland and would love to get another (if I can design the house for the hair and the slobber). My neighbor has a 6 month old Ruff Collie that is gorgeous. Be fun to have; a Border Collie, Belgium Malinois, Irish Terrier, Bovier des Flandres, Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog, and a Fox Terrier, but I love all the breeds. And I know that the soul of a mixed breed hoping to be rescued is as noble and worthy as any 'pure' breed dog.
January 27, 2019
Some of the best breed descriptions I have found anywhere. This is a beautiful book - could even be a "coffee table" book. However, it is also full of good information. Dohner includes clearly thought out notes on breed behavior, and it's variability.
I only have one tiny quibble, which was not minor, because it is important, but is very small. In the Herding section, there is a sidebar, titled "Herding dogs do not guard livestock." That title is not true. Herding dogs do not do the same job that livestock guardian types do, but some can and do guard. It is a matter of degree. The only reason I even bother to carp on such a small thing is because, at the same time I was reading the book, I ran into two people who repeated the same thing. One of those people was considering a dog for their smallholding (essentially a hobby farm). They had ruled out herding dogs based on advice they had gotten, when a dog like an English Shepherd would have been ideal for them.
I'm very glad to see quality books talk about the working traits of dogs. The knowledge of what dogs do for work was very nearly lost, along with some of the working breeds. In the U.S., we've seen a resurgence in attention to farms, and consequently to working dogs.
I only have one tiny quibble, which was not minor, because it is important, but is very small. In the Herding section, there is a sidebar, titled "Herding dogs do not guard livestock." That title is not true. Herding dogs do not do the same job that livestock guardian types do, but some can and do guard. It is a matter of degree. The only reason I even bother to carp on such a small thing is because, at the same time I was reading the book, I ran into two people who repeated the same thing. One of those people was considering a dog for their smallholding (essentially a hobby farm). They had ruled out herding dogs based on advice they had gotten, when a dog like an English Shepherd would have been ideal for them.
I'm very glad to see quality books talk about the working traits of dogs. The knowledge of what dogs do for work was very nearly lost, along with some of the working breeds. In the U.S., we've seen a resurgence in attention to farms, and consequently to working dogs.
January 5, 2023
This is an excellent research book if you’re looking for a quick overview of various types of farm dogs.
I saw it at the library with a dog that looks exactly like my Maremma and snapped it up. (Turns out it’s a Kuvasz - but this book showed me just how many long haired white dogs are bred for guarding livestock.)
There’s a great variety of types of dog in here with a little description of their looks, temperament and what type of work they are best for.
There is also a selection of breeds that are either new or rare. Has anyone else ever heard of a Hangin’ Tree Cowdog? Me either, but they sound like the perfect choice for a cattle ranch.
Not so much a “reading” book as a reference book - but I skim read it and now I want all the dogs! 🐾💙🐾
I saw it at the library with a dog that looks exactly like my Maremma and snapped it up. (Turns out it’s a Kuvasz - but this book showed me just how many long haired white dogs are bred for guarding livestock.)
There’s a great variety of types of dog in here with a little description of their looks, temperament and what type of work they are best for.
There is also a selection of breeds that are either new or rare. Has anyone else ever heard of a Hangin’ Tree Cowdog? Me either, but they sound like the perfect choice for a cattle ranch.
Not so much a “reading” book as a reference book - but I skim read it and now I want all the dogs! 🐾💙🐾
May 24, 2024
I absolutely love this book! Out of all of the working dog books, this is one of the most informational and the most pleasurable to read and look at. The pictures are spectacular, the writing is clear and intelligently written, and the facts given are helpful - and sometimes even humourous!
I highly recommend Farm Dogs: A Comprehensive Breed Guide to 93 Guardians, Herders, Terriers, and Other Canine Working Partners!
(Note: In my opinion, the best parts are, of course, the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Polish Tatra!)
I highly recommend Farm Dogs: A Comprehensive Breed Guide to 93 Guardians, Herders, Terriers, and Other Canine Working Partners!
(Note: In my opinion, the best parts are, of course, the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Polish Tatra!)
June 2, 2018
One of the most thorough guides to the personality, history, and working traits of dogs that I've ever seen. I checked the three-page section on Shetland Sheepdogs, my breed, and found that the descriptions were spot on for various aspects of the breed. This author has written an exhaustive, accurate compendium of 93 different breeds of farm dogs, familiar and rare. In many decades of exploring dog books, I've never seen anything better.
December 27, 2018
A decent general introduction to a range of dogs suitable for various types of farm work, but in some cases I do question the descriptions of some of the breeds. I would not exactly call Finnish Lapphunds "high energy" compared to many other herding breeds, though some individuals are/can be.
July 17, 2020
I was very impressed with this book. I love dogs and am always interested in learning new things about different breeds of dogs, their history, abilities, personality traits, etc. I'll admit I have raised Shih Tzus for 20 years and their "job as a working dog" is literally just to keep me company. I work, they snuggle and snore. When I need a break, I wake them up for a walk and some play time, and then we do the same thing all over again. This book fascinated me with the differences between guarding dogs, herding dogs, earth dogs (a term I'd never heard before), and multipurpose farm dogs. I like that it distinguishes between high energy and low energy working dogs and the best way to use each dog on a farm. My only quibble was the author's assertion that working dogs HAD to be raised outside with the livestock. I've read enough other books and interacted with enough other dog people to know that the first most important bond should be made between the new dog (especially puppy) and its human. As it gets older and becomes better bonded with and thus intuned with its human through training, etc it may eventually choose of its own free will to stay outside permanently among the livestock and thats fine but initially it needs to bond with its human first in order for the working relationship to be the strongest. Other than her controversial advice regarding puppy bonding/raising, I think the book was a smashing hit and excellent reference tool!
May 19, 2020
Great, informative read.
If you're interested in farm dogs, this book is a must have. Great information presented in an easy to understand format with a focus upon work.
If you're interested in farm dogs, this book is a must have. Great information presented in an easy to understand format with a focus upon work.
July 6, 2019
Insightful and descriptive
October 11, 2016
I received this book from the publisher for review.
Let me start off by saying I love books like this. I love books, that let you get a good idea of what you are in for with a pet, or livestock before you go an add them to your live. More people should be reading up on what kind of animal would be best suited for their lifestyle and their family routines. I think it would cut down a lot on how many pets end up in rescue centers and animal shelters.
This book is no different from the quality I have come to expect from authors writing for Storey publishing. Well researched and packed with a ton of actually useful information, it will enable you to make an educated decision and get just the right dog for the job.
If you are looking to get a Terrier, German Shepherd, or one of the Collie breeds to add as a pet to your household, without having a farm for them to work, this book will give you a good idea what you are in for. It describes the general temperament of the dog breeds, the history, their working traits and more specific needs of the dog. For example the coat care needs for the Komodor dog (the one with the "dreadlocks")
This book will help make up your mind if you do want to spend the time on the special needs of some of the breeds (like giving the Australian Shepherd all the exercise this breed needs in order to not be destructive in the house), or pay for grooming if you get one of the long hair breeds.
Do yourself a favour and read this book. It does not matter if you are in the market for a dog or not. Maybe a fried is and you can help them out. Our pets deserve happy and healthy lives. If a book can help you give this to your pet, it should be a must have in any library.
Let me start off by saying I love books like this. I love books, that let you get a good idea of what you are in for with a pet, or livestock before you go an add them to your live. More people should be reading up on what kind of animal would be best suited for their lifestyle and their family routines. I think it would cut down a lot on how many pets end up in rescue centers and animal shelters.
This book is no different from the quality I have come to expect from authors writing for Storey publishing. Well researched and packed with a ton of actually useful information, it will enable you to make an educated decision and get just the right dog for the job.
If you are looking to get a Terrier, German Shepherd, or one of the Collie breeds to add as a pet to your household, without having a farm for them to work, this book will give you a good idea what you are in for. It describes the general temperament of the dog breeds, the history, their working traits and more specific needs of the dog. For example the coat care needs for the Komodor dog (the one with the "dreadlocks")
This book will help make up your mind if you do want to spend the time on the special needs of some of the breeds (like giving the Australian Shepherd all the exercise this breed needs in order to not be destructive in the house), or pay for grooming if you get one of the long hair breeds.
Do yourself a favour and read this book. It does not matter if you are in the market for a dog or not. Maybe a fried is and you can help them out. Our pets deserve happy and healthy lives. If a book can help you give this to your pet, it should be a must have in any library.
March 25, 2016
This book is a must read for anyone interested at any type of "working dog" whether they are going to be a livestock guardian or just the family dog.
I have always had dogs in my life from Poodles to a Tibetan Mastiff and one of my current dogs is a Great Pyrenees "Cassie" who I adopted from a rescue. It is very important to know the breed before you take them home. I would never recommend a Great Pyrenees to an apartment dwelling family just because of their need to "patrol" and barking lots of barking with this breed (no problem since I live in the county), so a book that is informative and easy to read is a great find.
This review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
I have always had dogs in my life from Poodles to a Tibetan Mastiff and one of my current dogs is a Great Pyrenees "Cassie" who I adopted from a rescue. It is very important to know the breed before you take them home. I would never recommend a Great Pyrenees to an apartment dwelling family just because of their need to "patrol" and barking lots of barking with this breed (no problem since I live in the county), so a book that is informative and easy to read is a great find.
This review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
October 26, 2016
If you or someone you know is looking to buy a good farm dog or a working dog then this book will be an informative guide.
The first three chapters are on the history, understanding, and choosing the right dog. Then the next four chapters are devoted to the different individual breeds.
There are great pictures making it easier to distinguish the breeds.
This book is a wealth of information for anyone who is searching for just the right breed to become their working farm dog.
In the beginning of the main breeds page there is information on behavior and temperament, activities for the dogs, coat care, and a breed map.
Also in every chapter there is history and appearance about each individual breed.
The author seems to know the inner workings of farm and working dogs well.
This is an exceptional book buy with facts you need to know when choosing your working dog.
I, was given this book, by Netgalley.com for review purposes.
The first three chapters are on the history, understanding, and choosing the right dog. Then the next four chapters are devoted to the different individual breeds.
There are great pictures making it easier to distinguish the breeds.
This book is a wealth of information for anyone who is searching for just the right breed to become their working farm dog.
In the beginning of the main breeds page there is information on behavior and temperament, activities for the dogs, coat care, and a breed map.
Also in every chapter there is history and appearance about each individual breed.
The author seems to know the inner workings of farm and working dogs well.
This is an exceptional book buy with facts you need to know when choosing your working dog.
I, was given this book, by Netgalley.com for review purposes.
May 20, 2016
I love this beautiful book filled with hardworking dogs! I was the lucky owner of a Bearded Collie years ago, and the description of the breed's traits was right on target, plus it made me tear up a little, remembering what a smart and charming fellow my dog was. It was wonderful to explore the other breeds in the herding family, too, and all the working dogs are portrayed with extensive information on temperament and physical attributes. The book is packed with terrific photographs that will make any dog lover happy!
November 5, 2016
If you want to learn about the different types of dogs for farm living, or you want to find the best breed for your farm, this is the go to book. It covers the various types of farm dogs: terriers, all purpose, and live stock guardian dogs. Excellent illustrations and the pros and cons of each breed are covered.
December 30, 2016
Wonderful and truly comprehensive book featuring dog breeds that make for my favorite kind of dogs - farm dogs! Growing up with GSDs, an Aussie, and a Collie, I have known and loved many a farm dog for its entire life, and they continue to be my favorites! Any dog ~can~ be a farm dog, but this book highlights breeds best suited for the task!
April 23, 2017
Everything you need to know about choosing the right breed of dog for your farm. Covers a lot about temperament and traits.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews