Dogs and cats on the homestead: roles and choice

In short

• Job first, then breed. A livestock guardian, a yard dog, a herding dog and a ratter are four different dogs.
• A livestock guardian dog grows up with the stock, not in the house. Against wolves, coyote packs or bears you need at least two dogs.
• For rodents 1–3 neutered cats per homestead are enough, together with closed bins and tidiness (H56-04 Rodent control without poison).
• A large dog lives 10–13 years, a cat 12–18. Count the cost and the time for the whole life, not just the first year.
• A microchip and registration are compulsory for dogs in the UK and Ireland; in the US and Canada rabies vaccination and a dog licence usually are (H32-07 Legal duties: microchipping, vaccinations).
• Never feed a dog raw offal from slaughtered sheep, goats or pigs: hydatid disease and other infections (H32-06 Health and parasites).

What's inside

Chapters

1. What job are you looking for
2. Guardian, yard dog and herding dog
3. Breeds for your area
4. How many dogs and cats
5. Puppy or adult animal
6. How to choose a puppy
7. Dogs, cats, children and neighbours
8. Space, time and money
9. Paperwork and duties in short
10. Plan for the first year
11. Common mistakes
12. Printable checklist

Worksheets

• Homestead needs assessment
• Cost calculator
• Breeder and litter comparison
• Animal record card
• First-year calendar