Adam Clarke on Genesis 29:2

Three flocks of sheep - צאן tson, small cattle, such as sheep, goats, etc.; See note on Gen 12:16. Sheep, in a healthy state, seldom drink in cold and comparatively cold countries: but it was probably different in hot climates. The three flocks, if flocks and not shepherds be meant, which were lying now at the well, did not belong to Laban, but to three other chiefs; for Laban's flock was yet to come, under the care of Rachel, Gen 29:6.