Dogs have been used for various purposes for ages. Where some were used to rescue the stuck travellers from the snow-clad mountains, others were used by the royalty as companions. One major role that they have played since their origin is the protection of livestock.
As livestock guardian dogs, these canines utilize their sense of smell, presence, and a built-in protective instinct to guard the livestock. The animals they guard include sheep, hens, and even horses. Also known as LGDs, the livestock guardian dogs bond well with these animals and protect them at the same time.
A lot of the time, these canines are so imposing in size that their presence is enough to ward off the intruders. They work as great deterrents to the predators and keep them away by staying close to the livestock animals.
A well-trained dog, bonded to the horses from an early age, tends to protect them with all its heart and soul.
In this article, we will discuss the seven dog breeds that guard horses from predators.
Dog Breeds That Guard Horses From Predators
1. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is from the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. The trademark feature that really sets it apart from other dogs is its thick double coat. The dog is easy to distinguish even in a herd of horses. Any predator planning to prey on the horse will spot the dog instantly and decide to refrain from the attack.
These dogs have their own method of protecting and guarding the horses. They are good at patrolling. In fact, this livestock guardian breed would mark the territory, and whenever it sees a predator, it would bark loudly to make it run for its life.
Rather than chasing threats, they rely on their size and booming bark to deter predators.
They are naturally inclined to patrol and mark their territory, and their powerful bark serves as a deterrent.
Great Pyrenees dogs form strong bonds with the animals they protect, which makes them even fiercer guardians.
2. Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is truly intimidating.
At first glance, it is capable of scaring anyone off. With a sturdy build and a muscular body, these dogs, measuring 27-29 inches in height and weighing 80-120 pounds, according to the American Kennel Club, are easily noticeable to predators.
This dog should not be taken lightly, as it can become aggressive towards predators like coyotes, wolves, or even strangers who approach the horses without permission.
Check out this Reddit Thread to understand how this dog acts when it is in charge of watching over a flock.
These dogs are also big barkers. With their loud and intimidating bark, the potential predator is most likely to run away immediately and would never plan to return.
Being super alert and watchful at all times, they would continually scan their surroundings for anything out of the ordinary, ensuring the herd remained safe and well-protected.
3. Kuvasz
Two adjectives that really define a Kuvasz as a guardian dog are courageous and determined.
When assigned the task of guarding livestock, these dogs turn out to be some of the most dependable canines.
Hills Pets notes that what really makes them fierce guarding and herding dogs for horses is that they form strong bonds with the animals. They start viewing them as family members and will go to great lengths to protect them.
Before springing into action, these dogs will make certain gestures to ward off the predators. For instance, they would stand tall in front of it or display their teeth. Even if the predator still doesn’t move, the dog would bark and then attack it with full force.
Don’t take them lightly, as when it comes to confrontation, they don’t hesitate!
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
Considered to be big dogs with massive muscles, the Bernese Mountain Dogs are good at protecting horses.
Well, they were not originally bred as livestock protection dogs, but they are still widely used as guard dogs for horses owing to their impressive strength and natural guarding instincts.
These large dogs protect livestock by staying alert and barking as soon as they spot a potential predator. These protective dogs will alert horse owners to a looming threat, allowing them to take action as required.
Proper training and early socialisation with a horse make all the difference. The dogs start viewing the horses as a part of the pack and protect them with all their strength.
5. Akbash
Akbash is an extremely territorial dog.
It is naturally protective and wouldn’t let anyone enter its territory.
These dogs are natural guardians. You can take them to your farmhouse located in a rural area, and you’ll see how well they would perform as farm dogs.
What’s even more impressive is that they make wonderful family pets as well, protecting you at home and playing with you cheerfully.
These dogs are always ready for physical defence of their flock, which includes horses and other livestock. They possess great courage and stamina, which makes them formidable opponents, even against big, wild predators like bears.
Additionally, they are independent thinkers and do not require constant direction from humans. Rather, they are good at making quick decisions and developing strategies.
6. Komondor
This breed originated as livestock guardian dogs is a good choice if you want a courageous dog to protect horses.
What really sets them apart from other dogs is their loud bark. It is so loud that the horse owner instantly knows that there is some trouble at the farm!
The dog first barks to ward off the predator.
However, if that doesn’t work, the dog opts for physical confrontation and uses its rugged build and athleticism to push the predator away.
Hills Pet notes that it is possible to train a Komondor. However, it requires consistency and patience as the dog has an independent streak.
7. Slovak Cuvac
The fearless Slovak Cuvac comes with an innate need to protect and is one of the most sought-after guards of the horses.
When the dog develops a strong bond with the herd, it protects it with all its strength. For that, it is necessary to socialise the dog with the herd early on.
Alongside this, Royal Canin notes that these dogs are not only naturally wary of strangers but are also extremely protective of their territory. Hence, when it comes to protecting the horses from boar and other predators, this dog serves the purpose efficiently.
One of the best dogs to guard horses, it has a loud bark that it uses to ward off predators and alert the horse owner.
Conclusion
Some dogs are bred to guard livestock, while others are specifically trained for this purpose. Breeds such as Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, Jack Russell Terriers, and Border Collies are not only great family dogs but are also used as livestock guardians. They protect sheep and horses, giving a sense of relief to the farm owners.
