#TBT: The 10 Commandments of Being a Barn Dog

No barn is complete without one.

Photo by Kristen Kovatch.

Thou shalt always eat the horse manure, even if it means you get yelled at later when giving kisses.

Thou shalt not resist the temptation to run the fencelines when the horses are feeling fresh, though it may result in a hoof flying in your general direction.

Thou shalt greet every car that comes into the driveway, for that is thy role as guardian of the barn.

Remember the stock tank, for is the best place to cool off.

Thou shalt eat hoof clippings on farrier day until you ralph in the tack room, for the hoof clippings are to be turned down by no dog.

When you are tired, thou shalt lie down in the sunny spot in the arena, even if it shall lie in the middle of the outside line.

Honor the foul-smelling spots in the pasture and roll in them. Roll deeply. Work that stink right into thy coat.

Thou shalt always ride in the Gator/golf cart/utility vehicle, even if it means other humans shall walk.

Thou shalt always get as dirty as possible.

Thou shalt live thy dog life to the fullest potential on the farm, ranch, barn or stable.

Go barn dogs. Go riding.

Love barn cats? Don’t miss “The 10 Commandments of Being a Barn Cat.”

Photo by Kristen Kovatch.