11 things only rural dog owners deal with (that city people don’t get)

City folks love their dogs, but the issues they run into are a whole different thing from what happens out in the country. Rural dog ownership brings freedom, sure—but also a stack of challenges that don’t exist when you’re walking the block on a leash. If you live on land, you’ll get every one of these.

Skunks Aren’t a Rare Encounter

Out here, skunks are common—and they don’t care how friendly your dog is. One wrong sniff and your whole night changes.

You learn fast to keep peroxide and baking soda on hand. Store-bought sprays barely touch it, and that smell lingers for weeks.

Neighbors May Shoot a Roaming Dog

It’s harsh, but it happens. If your dog goes onto someone’s property and spooks livestock or chases chickens, they’re legally within their rights in many states.

Keep your dog fenced, leashed, or trained to stay home. Don’t assume everyone’s as patient as you are.

Snakes Are a Real Risk

Tall grass, rock piles, and woodpiles all hide snakes. Some are harmless. Some aren’t. Either way, they all draw curiosity from dogs.

Learn what venomous snakes live in your area and walk your land often. Snake bites are expensive and sometimes deadly.

Coyote Calls Can Set Off a Panic

The first time your dog hears coyotes howl, you’ll see a reaction—either they bolt toward it or freeze. Both can be bad.

Coyotes lure dogs out, especially at night. Keep your dog close after dark and consider motion lights or noise deterrents.

Every Trip Outside Could Mean a Burr or Tick

You can’t walk ten feet through the pasture without finding a burr in their fur or a tick on their belly. It’s part of the deal.

Check them head to toe regularly, especially around the ears, between the toes, and under the collar.

Dead Animals Are Apparently Irresistible

It doesn’t matter what it is—raccoon, bird, armadillo—your dog will find it, roll in it, or try to bring it home.

Be ready for impromptu baths and figure out how to spot their “guilty” body language quick. They always know.

Livestock Isn’t for Herding (Unless Trained)

A herding instinct can be dangerous if your dog doesn’t know how to control it. Chasing cows or goats doesn’t end well.

Train them or separate them. Don’t assume “they’ll figure it out.” Dogs can get trampled, kicked, or shot for less.

Loud Trucks or ATVs Don’t Phase Them Anymore

After a while, your dog won’t even flinch when someone fires up an ATV or revs a diesel. They learn what’s worth barking at and what’s not.

Still, if they’re young or new to the country, ease them into it. Sudden noise exposure can make skittish dogs worse.

They Drink From the Weirdest Places

Buckets, puddles, the pig trough—it doesn’t matter. If it holds water, they’ll try it. And you’ll never know what was growing in there.

Give them a clean, steady water source and check it daily. They’ll still sneak a drink from the mud, but at least you’ll know they had a clean option.

Fireworks Go Off for Random Reasons

You don’t need a holiday for someone nearby to shoot off fireworks—or guns. Dogs who aren’t used to it can spiral fast.

Desensitize them slowly if you can. During loud nights, keep them indoors, play music, and make sure they’ve got a spot they feel safe in.

Country Dogs Work Harder Than You Think

Out here, dogs aren’t just pets—they’re alarm systems, hiking buddies, pest control, and emotional support. They pick up on things before you do.

Living in the country gives dogs a job to do—whether you planned for it or not. A good rural dog earns their keep every day.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.