An LGD, or Livestock Guardian Dog, is a specialized breed of dog that is bred and trained to protect livestock from predators.

Our LGDs are full blooded Great Pyrenees. They are brother and sister from the same litter. A common problem seen between littermates that go to the same home is “littermate syndrome,” where they grow up to resent eachother. We first decided to get Xena, and later decided to get Xerxes.

If you are personally looking for pups to protect your herd, we recommend getting two. Comparing what other farmers have noticed amongst their LGDs to our own we agree that having two improves all aspects of life and well-being for these dogs.

But How?

Guarding:

Together a pair of LGDs will form a pattern, one will stay and guard the animals while the other does perimeter checks.
Keeps them alert to predators.

Companionship:

They keep eachother entertained and allow for play as they grow up.
We also have noticed that they are less lonely when they have their own companion.

After a year of having these beautiful pups we have yet to come into contact with any problems. Both of their parents work on the same farm and reside with the same herd or goats.

These dogs are known for their loyalty, courage, and strong protective instincts. LGDs are commonly used to guard sheep, goats, cattle, and other livestock from wolves, coyotes, bears, and other potential threats.

At Brandt Farm, we rely on our LGDs to help us protect our animals from predators and ensure their safety. Our LGDs are an essential part of our farm management, and they play a crucial role in safeguarding our livestock.

We carefully select and train our LGDs to be effective guardians, and they become valued members of our farming operation. These dogs are not only protective but also gentle and attentive to the animals they guard, as well as their people. Their presence brings a sense of security to both our animals and our family.

The main issue we have had to with our pups is that they do not like birds, domestic or feral. We have noted that even with enhanced training and care, they are not to be trusted around birds. We have completely seperated our birds and goats, where our LGDs are soley in with the goats. Since the seperation, no birds have been harmed. This is mostly due to them being puppies, as it is common knowledge that Great Pyrenees are not friendly with birds throughout their puppyhood, but soon grow out of it.

Overall, LGDs are indispensable partners in ensuring the well-being of our livestock, and we deeply appreciate their dedication.

First Year Checklist for Owning a Livestock Guardian Dog (LGD)

Congratulations on your new role as the owner of a Livestock Guardian Dog (LGD)! The first year with your LGD is crucial for establishing a strong foundation for their future role in protecting your livestock. Here's a checklist to guide you through the first year:

Socialization and Training:

Socialize Early: Introduce your LGD to various people, animals, and environments to ensure they become well-adjusted and confident in different situations.
Basic Obedience Training: Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Consistent training will help establish a strong bond and ensure your LGD understands boundaries and expectations.

Establishing Boundaries:

Familiarize with Livestock: Introduce your LGD to the animals they will be protecting. Monitor their interactions and reinforce positive behavior around the livestock.
Establish Territory: Help your LGD understand the boundaries of their guarding territory. Regularly walk the perimeter with them to reinforce the area they are responsible for protecting.

Health and Well-being:

Regular Vet Check-ups: Schedule regular vet visits to ensure your LGD is healthy and up to date on vaccinations.
Proper Nutrition: Feed your LGD a high-quality diet suitable for their size and energy requirements.

Xerxes and Xena playing with their siblings

Shelter and Comfort:

Comfortable Shelter: Provide a comfortable and secure shelter for your LGD, particularly during extreme weather conditions.
Rest Area: Designate a quiet and comfortable resting area for your LGD to recharge.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

Behavior Monitoring: Pay attention to your LGD's behavior and how they interact with the livestock. Address any concerning behaviors promptly.
Evaluate Progress: Assess your LGD's progress in adapting to their role as a guardian and adjust training as needed.

Building Trust and Bonding:

Spend Quality Time: Engage in regular bonding activities with your LGD. This could include walks, playtime, and grooming sessions.
Consistent Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques to build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your LGD.

First Night What To/Not To Do:

Where do they sleep? The first night is always the hardest. How can you put a sweet little puppy outside? It’s ok! if you chose your LGD precisly, then these babies will be bred and built to be outside. On our first few nights its was extremely cold, and they were about 8-weeks old. So, we kept them in the basement, but as you would expect, they were extremely uncomfortable, panting, even in an uncontrolled temperature basement (so about 50 degrees). If you have made a small comfortable space outside for them (maybe in a stall of a barn), where they are completely blocked off from all larger animals with food and water, they will be more than happy!
Play with them! When we got home, we brought them inside and put their collars on, gave them toys and taught them their names. Bonding is extremely important to create a well-rounded LGD. They may be outside dogs, but they are still our dogs, and we love and care for them just like our inside dogs.

Community Engagement:

Connect with Experienced LGD Owners: Seek guidance and learn from experienced LGD owners in your community or online forums.
Join LGD Groups: Consider joining local LGD groups or associations to network and gain insights from other owners.

The pups getting their undercoat blown out for the hot summer.

By prioritizing socialization, training, health, and bonding in the first year, you'll be setting your LGD up for success as a reliable guardian of your livestock. Remember, patience and consistent effort are key to nurturing a well-rounded and effective LGD. Good luck on your journey with your new furry guardian!

Xena and Xerxes as pups playing in the mud.

Before getting our LGDs we had a significant drop in bird population of both chickens and turkeys due to predators of the ground and sky. Over the last year of having our pups we have not lost a single bird due to outside predators. We highly reccomend investing in LGDs when looking into farming smaller animals, they make a world of difference! Good luck!

Our LGDs & a Little Bit of How-To