Mixed breed guard dogs

Hi Tommy, I was just passing through and thought I would respond seeing as no-one else has! I train farmers to implement successful livestock guardian dog strategies in their operations to prevent predation and thus create a predator friendly environment. To answer your questions - - You are correct. Puppies are vulnerable and will become prey themselves. We advise that only mature LGDs should be left in pastures. Juvenile LGDs over the age of 12 mths can join the adult LGDs depending on the predator pressure. Adult LGDs can help train the juvenile LGDs "on the job." However the shepherd still needs to develop a relationship with their dogs so handling and training should still also be carried out by the shepherd. Succession planning of LGDs is an absolute must to avoid losing protection of livestock. - Most LGDs aren't ready to be left alone with livestock until around 2yrs of age. There are some exceptions of course especially where there are older mature LGDs to assist and supervise the juveniles whilst they are "coming into their own" abilities. Juveniles tend to want to play with livestock and can injure or kill livestock accidentally. - mixed breeding must only be between recognised LGDs. Non-LGDs do not have the instinct to protect livestock in the way that true LGDs do and can. The success of any LGD program will depend on the nature of the stock to be protected. For example, buffalo are very wary and will take longer to accept the presence of a dog. Donkeys don't always get on with dogs. It is generally harder for an LGD to bond with chickens because they are noisy and flighty, but they can be very successful with any type of fowl. - how many dogs you will need is dependant on many, many things. We always say that two dogs is the minimum to start with for any operation. I hope this helps with your understanding of livestock guardian dogs.