Horsedreamer72
New member
I have 2 horses (that are boarded -- not on my property) and am a weekend trail rider. I am considering getting a dog for companionship both on and off of the trail. I know that a good deal of animal behavior has to do with training, but I also believe that breed disposition plays a large part as well.
I am looking for a dog that can easily and willingly learn to come to me and stay by me while off leash and riding on the trail so it is not bothering other trail users or approaching other horses that might be skittish around dogs. Additionally, I am looking for a medium-sized breed (smaller than a lab, but bigger than a chihuahua) that has the energy & stamina to keep up with a horse on a long trail ride, but also wouldn't mind being left alone in a small fenced yard while I am at work and my son (13 yo) is at school. I am not opposed to larger dogs, but my house is also pretty small, about 900 sf, which is why I don't want a dog that is too big. Also, I live on a very busy road, so it is important that the dog is of a breed that typically does not dig or might otherwise try diligently to get out of the fenced area when left alone.
While I am not particular about color or hair length, it would be nice to get a breed that doesn't shed too much as it will also spend a good deal of time in the house with the family.
I am planning to adopt from an animal shelter, but want to have an idea of what kind of breed might be best suited for the trail and my small house/yard. Any ideas would be much appreciated!!
I am looking for a dog that can easily and willingly learn to come to me and stay by me while off leash and riding on the trail so it is not bothering other trail users or approaching other horses that might be skittish around dogs. Additionally, I am looking for a medium-sized breed (smaller than a lab, but bigger than a chihuahua) that has the energy & stamina to keep up with a horse on a long trail ride, but also wouldn't mind being left alone in a small fenced yard while I am at work and my son (13 yo) is at school. I am not opposed to larger dogs, but my house is also pretty small, about 900 sf, which is why I don't want a dog that is too big. Also, I live on a very busy road, so it is important that the dog is of a breed that typically does not dig or might otherwise try diligently to get out of the fenced area when left alone.
While I am not particular about color or hair length, it would be nice to get a breed that doesn't shed too much as it will also spend a good deal of time in the house with the family.
I am planning to adopt from an animal shelter, but want to have an idea of what kind of breed might be best suited for the trail and my small house/yard. Any ideas would be much appreciated!!