Donkeys are herd animals, a patient and very sure-footed beast of burden with loving personalities. They form close attachments to their owners and to other donkeys. Because of their laid-back, easygoing personalities, they make wonderful pets for children, the handicapped and the elderly. Female donkeys produce good milk. Donkeys are used for sheep protection, the donkey will chase and often trample the predator.
Donkeys are also very adept at halter breaking young calves and yearling horses.
As a stable companion the donkey takes on the responsibility of another animal's well-being. Nervous horses have been known to calm down with a donkey companion as a stall or pasture mate. The donkey has shown how wonderful it is with children and handicapped people. Their small stature, slow and thoughtful nature and affectionate disposition make them ideal for this purpose. They have the patience of Job and therefore are ideally suited to being around children.