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A Cowboy and Cowgirl's Best Friend: The Top 5 Breeds of Rodeo Dogs

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By Kaitlyn Woodman | Last updated 4/13/24

Traveling up and down the road can be lonely and sometimes scary in the middle of the night. More often than not, when a rig pulls into the rodeo, you'll catch more than one type of four-legged companion jumping out of the truck and trailer.

Our canine friends serve many purposes out on the road, and everyone knows that you will hardly ever catch a barrel racer traveling with less than two dogs at all times. Within the rodeo world, however, there is a select few breeds that outnumber the rest. After all, we like what we like!

Whether it be for protection, livestock guardianship, or just pure companionship, we all have our reasons for choosing dog breeds. Here are a few of the most common breeds you will see at the rodeos:

1. Australian Shepherd (Standard, Miniature, and Toy varieties)

The Australian Shepherd is a highly intelligent herding dog that makes the best pet! They cherish their family and love playtime, and they have the kindest personalities. It's easy to bring them along wherever the rodeo road takes you, and some even develop a protective instinct to help you feel a little safer when alone. Aussies are an extremely popular breed among barrel racers!

2. Corgi's or Corgi Mix (Cowboy Corgi/ Auggie)

Although they sit pretty low to the ground, this breed packs a huge personality in such a small body. Originally from Great Britain, this breed is not only a top choice within the rodeo world but was also Queen Elizabeth II's favorite breed, and it was said that she owned more than 30 during her reign. More recently, the breed has started to cross with others, such as Blue Heelers and Australian Shepherds, which are also very popular in the industry!

3. Blue or Red Heeler

Heelers are not only great herding animals but also some of the best guard dogs. They have extreme protective instincts and will do anything to keep their people safe. This breed is more commonly seen with male rodeo athletes, but that is not to say that the girls don't love a good Heeler!

4. Dachshund or "Weenie Dog"

This is another breed you will always see abundant at the barrel races. They are typically full of sass and love their humans. Where there is one, there's probably another close by, as most can never just have one! They come in all colors, shapes, and sizes and usually win the award for the cutest pup at the rodeo.

5. Border Collie

The Border Collie is probably the most agile and athletic of them all. They are bred to work cattle and love their jobs as well as their humans. Being an extremely loyal breed, they are a very popular choice amongst cowboys and cowgirls, and you'll always see plenty of them around the rodeos and ranches.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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