When it comes to selecting the ideal canine companion for South African farmers, several factors must be considered.
Security being at the top of mind for many of us, the dog should be big and smart enough to defend the family but still be controlled by its owner.
Versatility for me is the next major influence on what breed to consider. It’s a great idea to consider a breed that will enhance your life as a whole. You are not going to get a Mastiff if you are a keen bird shooter. You should probably look at a Labrador so that you can utilise the dog in many different areas of your life. Compatibility with family and children is a big factor. If you have a family, you are going to want to look at dogs that are playful and more tolerant of children.
Considering that we like to take our dogs with us all over the place, we need to look at breeds that are easier to control around other people and animals. This factor has more to do with training than genetics, so trainability is key here.
There are obviously a wide variety of breeds in South Africa, but I have chosen to highlight four specific breeds. Other noteworthy breeds are the Rhodesian Ridgeback, Australian Cattle dog, Border Collie, many of the terrier breeds, and gun dog breeds, which would all make great farming companions.
BOERBOEL
The Boerboel can only really be utilised as a guard dog.
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の 19 April 2024 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の 19 April 2024 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Tasty, nutritious beans come in many forms
Beans originated in Central and South America and have been domesticated for thousands of years
Can privately owned One Loft Races revive pigeon racing in SA?
In this article, part one of a three-part series on pigeon racing, Thomas Smit looks at the sport's decline in South Africa, and whether One Loft Races, with their attractive cash prizes, can revive it.
Managing macadamia production when margins are low
Macadamia nut farms have been in dire straits over the past two seasons as prices have dropped and input costs have risen. With little relief on the horizon, orchard management needs to be revised to maintain sustainability. Lindi Botha looks at the options available to farmers to reduce their costs.
Lessons on the importance of general herd management
Louis Steyl, CEO of the Bonsmara Cattle Breeders’ Society of South Africa, spoke to Annelie Coleman about the true value of effectively managing a Bonsmara herd in order to maximise profit.
Combating GBV scourge in rural communities
A ground-breaking programme is addressing gender-based violence in South Africa's rural communities and empowering young men to fight harmful stereotypes
The role of One Health in sustainable farming and well-being
A movement strengthening relationships between communities and the land and promoting a mutually beneficial relationship between agriculture, health and the environment is emerging in sustainable farming. Ntokozo Zitha, a PhD student in the Economics Analysis Unit at the Agricultural Research Council, writes.
Sustainable palm oil production in SA
Palm oil has been heavily criticised due to the unsustainable practices used in its cultivation. But this is beginning to change, says Jannie Myburgh, senior manager of trading oils procurement at SD Guthrie International SA. He spoke to Marinda Louw Coetzee.
Western Cape avocado production on the rise
Avocado production is booming in the Western Cape, and new insights into the industry were shared at a recent grower day
Top Western Cape young farmer enjoys a challenge
Dean Barnard, a farmer from George in the Western Cape, was recently named the Agri Western Cape Santam Young Farmer of the Year and will go on to represent the province at the Toyota SA/Agri SA Young Farmer of the Year competition later this year.
Guava association expects smaller 2024 harvest
The Guava Producers' Association (GPA) has adjusted its guava production estimate down from 25 200t to 22 500t, making the harvest 16% smaller than the 26 641t harvested last season and the smallest harvest in the past three years.
