Farmer's Dog: Simple Tips to Keep Your Farm Companion Strong

If you spend your days on a farm, you know the farmer’s dog isn’t a couch‑potato. He’s out in the fields, herding, guarding, and carrying gear. That hustle means his diet, health, and routine have to be spot‑on. Below are straightforward ideas you can start using today.

Feeding a Farmer’s Dog on the Farm

First off, choose food that can stand up to dirt, weather, and long work hours. Look for treats and kibble made from real meat, limited fillers, and a solid protein punch. A good rule of thumb is at least 25% protein from named animal sources – chicken, lamb, or beef – because muscle work burns a lot of fuel.

Split meals into two portions: a morning feed before the first task and an evening feed after the day’s work. This keeps energy steady and prevents belly slumps. If you’re out in the field all day, consider a portable snack like a small bag of our grain‑free jerky bites. They’re easy to toss into a pocket and give a quick protein boost.

Hydration is often ignored. A working dog can lose a lot of fluid, especially in summer heat. Keep a sturdy water trough near the barn and carry a collapsible bowl on long walks. Adding a splash of low‑salt broth to water once a week can entice a reluctant drinker.

Keeping Your Working Dog Happy and Safe

Beyond food, routine health checks save money and heartache. Brush teeth weekly with a canine‑safe paste – a clean mouth means fewer infections that could distract a dog on duty. Check paws after each run; mud can hide cuts or thorns that turn into serious wounds.

Training doesn’t stop after the first command. Reinforce basic recall, sit, and stay in the farm environment, where distractions like livestock are common. Short, positive sessions work better than long, stressful drills. Use a clicker or a favorite treat as a reward, and keep the tone upbeat.

Finally, give your farmer’s dog a comfortable place to rest. A sturdy, weather‑proof dog bed in the barn lets muscles recover after a hard day. If you have space, a second bed in the house lets the dog chill with the family – a mental break is as important as the physical one.

At Galloway Gourmet Dog Treats we’ve crafted a line of treats that fit these needs. Our recipes are grain‑free, high in protein, and made with locally sourced ingredients, so you know exactly what your farm dog is eating. Whether you need a quick training bite or a nutritious snack for a long day, our products are built to last.

Putting these simple steps into practice will keep your farmer’s dog healthy, motivated, and ready for whatever the farm throws at him. Start with a balanced diet, stay on top of grooming, and give plenty of rest – and you’ll see the difference in his energy and attitude every day.