Sheep – Homestead on the Range

10 Animal Breeds Important to American History

America’s history has long been linked with domestic animals. It is hard to imagine what our nation would have looked like in its early years without the hard-working horse and ox, let alone the backyard flocks of chickens. While many, many breeds have been important to our nation throughout the years, a few stand out… Continue reading 10 Animal Breeds Important to American History

5 Unconventional Draft Animals

In the United States, oxen, horses, and mules are the traditional draft animals of choice. Donkeys are also common. But all of these animals tend to be rather large. What if you have a smaller farm to work? One option is to consider a miniature horse or donkey. Another is to try something completely outside… Continue reading 5 Unconventional Draft Animals

Pros and Cons of Dual-Purpose Livestock

You may be wondering if you can really have it all. After all, weren’t modern livestock breeds specialized for a reason? Let’s find out.

A Guide to Herding by Livestock Species

The three most common types of livestock that herding dogs work with in the United States are ducks, sheep, and cattle. Other animals that are regularly herded with dogs are chickens, geese, turkeys, and goats. Some talented dogs can herd all of these species. However, many others are a little more specialized, particularly in the… Continue reading A Guide to Herding by Livestock Species

Teaching the Rules of the Hunt

The premise is that you cannot teach a dog to herd, simply because it already knows how. Instead, your role is that of pack leader.

Getting Started with Livestock Part 4: Breed

Pointers and resources for choosing animal breeds that will thrive on your farm.

Getting Started With Livestock Part 3: Diet

Keeping your animals on pasture obviously has financial benefits, and you’ve probably heard of the numerous health benefits, as well. Even nonruminants like pigs and poultry can derive a great portion of their diet from the pasture, although they will need some type of supplemental feed. So how do you make it all work? Pasture… Continue reading Getting Started With Livestock Part 3: Diet

Getting Started with Livestock Part 2: Fencing & Facilities

There really is no one right way to fence and shelter your animals. It’s a subject that will largely depend on your individual circumstances. But it’s also a subject that must be addressed, so here goes. Fencing What type of fencing and where to put it is going to depend a great deal on what… Continue reading Getting Started with Livestock Part 2: Fencing & Facilities

Getting Started With Livestock Part 1: Water

When it comes to keeping livestock, the water supply of your land base can be a major limiting factor. Therefore, before you invest any money in farm animals, it is crucial that you take stock of your water situation first. Supply Let’s start by examining the water resources you have available: What water sources do… Continue reading Getting Started With Livestock Part 1: Water

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