The use of protective animals such as livestock guardian dogs is growing in popularity among ranchers practicing non-lethal wildlife management and can be very effective in deterring bears. In Colorado, 84% of ranchers using livestock guard dogs gave them a good or excellent rating in protecting livestock.
Livestock Guardian Dogs have been used for centuries by livestock producers in Europe and Asia. Successful use takes time and dedication to develop – starting with careful genetic selection, pup socialization and proper deployment with livestock.
Differing breeds may serve specific roles. The most commonly used breeds include:
- Great Pyrenees
- Maremma
- Anatolian Shepherd
- Kangal
- Spanish Mastiff
- Akbash
- Komondor
- Sarplaninac
- Central Asian Shepherd Dog
- Karakachan
- Kuvasz
No one deterrent, such as livestock guardian dogs, is 100% effective. Rather several methods in combination – electric fencing, carcass removal and penning during birthing season, for example – is recommended.
Watch a YouTube video on Livestock Guardian Dogs.
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