HAULING HORSES?

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When you think you are ready to commit to owning a working dog, there are many things to consider other than breed. Do I get a puppy or an adult, purebred or cross? Do I train it or have it professionally trained? Sex of the animal has never made a difference to me, but neutering and spaying do. A "fixed" dog will be a lot easier to own (and usually train), due to the fact that you have eliminated one of the dog's strongest instincts-reproduction. I have seen some fabulous "intact" dogs, but I would leave these in the hands of professionals and folks who understand the seriousness of breeding dogs.

Puppies are a joy and a lot of work. You can mold them to your specifications, however. Also, aggression towards people usually shows up early and can be corrected. Adults can be easier to own, but sometimes their past upbringing won't be compatible with what you have in mind. Retraining can be difficult, but it can be accomplished. My Heeler is a reconditioned model. He was horrible when I got him; he seemed to always be looking for trouble. He represents what happens to a lot of working dogs. Working dogs tend to be very intelligent and active. If not given a job, they will often go and find their own work. Many Heelers, Aussies, and Border collies will work children, cats, chickens, etc., by nipping or chasing them. They also tend to be "mouthy" so provide many chew toys; otherwise, they will find couches, chairs or your favorite boots to chew on.

You must be there to discipline their behavior and you must be consistent every time. Never let them work animals at their leisure, only when you are there to direct them. Before any work on live animals is started, they must be unsurpassed in obedience. Working with them daily on just "sit, stay, come" will pay off when it is time to move livestock. Also, when you work with them daily, it gives them something to do rather than thinking up their own activities. If you do not think your dog is learning the way he should, get help from a professional trainer. Dogs are like people. Some learn easily and some need alternative methods to get the ideas across. You can find good and bad students in every breed.

Other breeds that might be of interest to you are: rottweilers, originally bred to work cattle; Great Pyrenees, sheep guardians; or Australian kelpies, very intelligent and hard working. Do not be afraid to shop around. These animals are a commitment, but the right one will be a joy and honor to own.

Last year we thought our cow was having difficulty calving, so we had our vet come out. He lives 30 minutes away and by the time he arrived, our cow had already given birth. Our horse is due this spring. How will we know when the vet should be called? We don't want to seem overprotective, but we don't want to lose a baby or the mother, either. What warning signs should we look for when it comes time for our animals to give birth?

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