Farm dogs

New Zealand’s hard-working farm dogs are worth gold to their owners, who often give them affectionate names such as Girlie, Fly, Stride, Beaut and Loyal.

Part of story: Farm dogs

Heading dogs, huntaways and all-purpose dogs

A vital workforce

Part of story: Farm dogs

Kurī – Polynesian dogs

A vital source of protein and fur, the sturdy kurī was also a favoured pet of Māori chiefs. Ancient accounts tell of dogs turned to stone, ghostly barking, and supernatural beings in the form of kurī.

Part of story: Kurī – Polynesian dogs

Choosing a farm dog

The success of any working dog depends on the bond between dog and handler, so obtaining a well-bred dog is important. Buyers can choose to purchase:

Part of story: Farm dogs

Traits and defects of working dogs

Dog traits explained Specialised terms are used to describe the wide range of natural abilities that farmers look for in dogs. Heading dogs These traits are found in heading dogs:

Part of story: Farm dogs

When good pets go bad

Some pets can become a nuisance if allowed to run wild. This usually happens if they are abandoned or neglected by their owners.

Part of story: Pets

Pages