Predation losses can cause significant economic losses for producers. Many have learned to rely on livestock guardian dogs (LGD) to provide continual protection. However, not all LGD work in all situations, and it can take intentional efforts to ensure their success on an operation. A few tips for LGD success include:
- Provide them a home on the range. The greatest success with getting LGD to remain with livestock is ensuring that they feel at home on your property.
- There is strength in numbers. Unanimously, recommendations are to never have only one LGD with a flock or a single group of livestock.
- Keep in mind that different breeds exhibit different behaviors. Each breed exhibits different characteristics, so find the breed (or cross-bred) that works best for your operation.
- Making the best introduction into a flock/herd is key in LGD bonding. Bonding best begins when puppies are 8 weeks old, but the key is providing them a safe space, close to livestock, where they can be closely monitored for behavior and consistent owner interaction.
- Zero contact with young dogs is a bygone practice for many owners. Introduce your LGD gradually to a consistent caregiver so that routine care and prompt treatment can be provided if the dog becomes injured or requires medical attention.
- Managing LGD also means managing neighbor relations. Keep in mind that not all neighbors are open to LGD, so compromise and flexibility should be at the forefront of conversations.
Check out the publication below that combines on-farm advice from South Dakota livestock producers and published research on how to promote the success of LGD for small ruminants and cattle. Special thanks to the Multi-County Predator Control District for supporting this project and to the numerous sheep producers who donated their time and advice!
Texas A&M Agrilife Research and Extension Center at San Angelo also has a great archive of LGD resources.
