Livestock Guard Dogs

Keeping your livestock protected against coyote, fox and hawks. The Great Pyrenees does a great job in keeping our goat farm safe.

Brief History of the Breed: Originally, Great Pyrenees are said to be descendants of large dogs which roamed the mountains of Asia thousands of years ago. This large dog accompanied the nomadic tribesman and their flock from Asia on their migration westward. In the Pyrenean Mountains they met ideal environmental circumstances for their development. The dogs developed in isolation of the mountain, culled by their Sheppard’s so that only those dogs who possessed to protect the flock from wolves and bears continued to pass on their genetics. After about 5,000 years of development, the Pyrenean Mountain dog or 'Great Pyrenees' was declared a "breed".

IS THIS GUARDIAN RIGHT FOR YOU?

Picking out the new puppy: Avoid pups that seem overly shy or one that dominates its litter mates. Make sure you look at both parents for bad skin problems and make sure both parents are working dogs. After you bring your new puppy home let him get accustomed to your herd, you may want to place him with you sick and recovering does at first. The first thing you want to teach your pup is that you, the owner, is the "pack leader". If for some reason your dog does not understand this, you will want to cull him. He will not only be a threat to your livestock but to you and your family as well. Some puppies may need to be taught that chasing and grabbing goats are inappropriate; a firm reprimand along with consistency should be all that is necessary.

Doing their job - You want your GP to come when you call it, this makes it easy to give vaccinations and worming. Otherwise you want your dog to be unconcerned when you walk into the pasture. If he wants affection, just a few pats on the head will do. This dog is at work, protecting thousands of dollars of investment, you don't want a pet guarding your livestock.