Modern homesteads and small farms with livestock face mounting pressure from predators, including coyotes, feral dogs, bobcats, mountain lions and bears, as well as aerial threats. Livestock guardian dogs can serve as full-time protectors and reduce livestock losses and support nonlethal predator management. Unlike traditional pet dogs bred primarily for companionship, LGDs have behavioral traits selected specifically for livestock protection.
Source: AcreageLife. Link. There are more than 35 LGD breeds worldwide, each developed for specific climates, terrains and predator threats. Common breeds in the U.S. include the Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd, Akbash Dog, Maremma, Kangal and Karakachan.
Bonding with livestock is essential for LGDs. Puppies must form attachments to livestock early in life to become effective guardians. The optimal bonding period is between five and 14 weeks of age.”
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