Dogs have been protecting livestock, including sheep, for thousands of years. Canines guard flocks by deterring predators like wolves and leopards. It is a great alternative for controlling predators compared to lethal methods like poisoning or shooting.
Members of such breeds are called “livestock guardians.” Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) can be characterized by their large size, blocky heads, floppy ears, and thick double coat. They stay loyal to their humans.
LGDs possess strong protective instincts, a confident demeanor, and a low prey drive. These vigilant guardians also make wonderful family pets. However, they are not suitable for small spaces as they need room to roam.
Here are the top 7 dog breeds that track predators protecting sheep.
Dog Breeds That Track Predators Protecting Sheep
1. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are popular guardians named after the Pyrenees mountains. Hailing from Central Asia, Pyrs were originally bred to protect sheep against predators like wolves. Now, they are popular as livestock guardians as well as family pets.
Their weather-resistant double coat enables them to protect flocks in harsh weather such as wind, rain, snow, and sun. The snow white fur allows them to blend in with sheep or the snowy surroundings, and surprise the intruders.
Pyrs’ independent and intelligent personalities allow them to make wise decisions while guarding the flock. Pyrs are quite easygoing, patient, and calm dogs. A job gives them a sense of purpose, and they take pride in completing their tasks, explains Orvis.
Do You Know? Queen Victoria was a dog lover. She owned a Great Pyrenees dog in 1850s.
2. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Anatolian Shepherd dogs initially served as hunting dogs, then as livestock guardians for sheep and other dogs. These fearless protectors stand up to 29 inches tall and can weigh up to 150 pounds, explains the American Kennel Club.
Anatolian Shepherd dogs have an intimidating appearance. Their mere presence can scare away threats to their flocks. They are capable of protecting sheep from predators independently with minimal instructions from their owners.
Anatolians are responsive, adaptable, and devoted pooches. They have a calm demeanor and are quite affectionate towards their immediate family. Anatolians are well-suited for experienced owners who can take care of exercise needs.
3. Kuvasz
The Hungarian Kuvasz is a working guard dog of impressive size and strength. Like other livestock guardian dogs, the Kuvasz is also a powerful and large dog standing as high as 30 inches and weighing up to 110 pounds.
Like the Great Pyrenees, the Kuvasz also has a fluffy white coat, which allows them to blend in with sheep and goats. Properly trained and well-socialized Kuvasz make excellent family dogs. They are loyal and devoted to their humans.
Kuvasz are not overly energetic and strong-willed. But they need an outlet for their energy and thrive with regular exercise. They also love having a purpose in life. These courageous dogs have a gentle nature and are tolerant of other animals.
Do You Know? Kuvasz had been the guardians of Hungarian kings and royalty. King Matthias I of Hungary was so fond of this breed that he used them as his personal protectors. Cutting it short, they have a history of loyalty and vigilance.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a loyal and loving livestock guardian dog breed. These big and powerful pooches are built for hard work. In the past, they were widely used to pull carts, drive cattle, and protect flocks against predators.
Berners use their strength and intelligence to stand firm in front of potential threats. These playful and affectionate dogs are easy to train and generally friendly towards strangers. Their easygoing temperament makes them wonderful family dogs.
It is an active dog breed and requires only one hour of exercise every day, explains PDSA. Exercise can be split into several walks and some off-lead time in secure areas. Their thick and long double coat needs to be brushed thoroughly at least weekly.
Do You Know? Bernese Mountain dogs make great babysitters. They are gentle and patient around kids. Due to their history as guard dogs, they will also keep an eye on your children. However, they might be too big for smaller children.
5. Maremma Sheepdog
Maremma Sheepdogs are intelligent and highly trainable dogs. Their independent nature enables them to make wise decisions while protecting the sheep against predators. However, it makes them a bit challenging for inexperienced owners.
These white-coated defenders blend in with their flocks, making them less visible to predators. They take their responsibility as protectors quite seriously and are affectionate towards their owners. However, Maremma Sheepdogs are loud barkers and bark at anything they perceive as a threat.
Maremma Sheepdogs are well-suited for farm life where they get plenty of space to roam and exercise. These mutts form strong bonds with their owners and make excellent companions with kids. Their strong protective instincts make them intolerant of strangers, but they aren’t inherently aggressive.
6. Kangal
Kangal Shepherds have been serving as livestock guardians since ancient times. These robust dogs have a speed of more than 35 miles per hour. They are loyal and affectionate to their owners and guard livestock with their lives.
Kangal Shepherds can weigh up to 145 pounds. They are so intimidating that they can scare away predators with their mere presence. These capable working dogs reflect strength and agility in their physique.
Kangal Shepherds are moderately energetic dogs. They need two hours of daily exercise to stay healthy and fit. Kangals enjoy activities like obedience training, herding, and games like hide and seek. Their short to medium-length coat requires brushing once or twice a week.
Do You Know? There is a confusion between Anatolian Shepherd and Kangal. While Anatolian Shepherd is recognized as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club, Kangal is not. However, United Kennel Club recognizes Kangal Shepherd as a separate breed.
7. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd dog is a fierce and protective livestock guardian from the Caucasus region. These extra-large dogs have been fighting against wolves, jackals, and even bears for hundreds of years. Due to their strong-willed nature, they need an experienced handler.
Caucasian Shepherds are bold and fearless when they encounter a threat, but soft and devoted as pets. Caucasian Shepherds are quite intelligent but have an independent nature, which makes training a bit difficult.
Despite their large size, they have a calm temperament. These low-energy dogs require at least an hour of exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Their strength, endurance, and sturdy build make them well-suited for activities like walking and hiking.
Conclusion
Several dog breeds, such as Kuvasz, Kangal, and Great Pyrenees, have been protecting sheep from predators like wolves and bears for hundreds of years. These livestock guardians are affectionate towards their owners and will risk their lives to protect them against potential threats.
If you are planning to adopt a livestock guardian dog breed that also makes wonderful family pets, make sure to provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Remember, livestock guardian breeds are generally large in size and require ample space to roam and exercise.
