Best Dog Breeds for the Equestrian

I love dogs, I’m fact I actually love dogs more than horses. They are such loyal companions, and are always happy and thrilled to see you.

Being a vet I see all shapes and sizes and natures of dog every day and in my mind some lend themselves to being the perfect equestrian pet whereas some are a little more challenging. That being said we all have our own taste in dog breeds and any dog is a good dog as far as I’m concerned.

What do I personally look for in a dog?

Small enough to cart around clinics and shows without taking up the whole cab of the truck and the whole Luton sleeping lol.

Active enough to take hacking.

Personality…. I love a big personality, I want a dog who loves life and lives it’s best life every day. Nothing makes me more happy than seeing a happy smiling dog trotting about the place.

Horse and stock friendly although I have to admit my border terrorist loves to have a good game of chase with Sooty my young stallion much to my horror.

Loyal…. I don’t really want to share my dogs love with other family members lol, Im greedy and want the love all to myself. Unfortunately this can bite me on the backside when I have to leave said dogs at home to go to the likes of hoy when they turn feral in my absence. Picture a spoodle disappearing in the middle of the night and coming back soaking and covered in head to toe with mud through the cat door with numerous rabbits. Needless to say neither her nor I were very popular.

Obedient (er hum, Spoodle…) or at least have a decent recall so they don’t have to be on lead all the time.

My personal top breeds are the moment in no particular order are:

Spoodle

Border Collie

Border Terrier aka Border Terrorist.

Miniature American or Australian Shepherd (Im thinking these are a great alternative to a larger sized border collie)

Anything crossed with a poodle….thinking I might try a border collie x poodle next combining two of my favourite breeds!

Whatever the breed they are sure to bring a smile to my face!