Brookfield Farm, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in northwest Washington state, operates three-quarters of a mile up a disused logging road. With the nearest neighbor half a mile away and a diverse wildlife population including deer, snakes, cougars, and bears, the farm thrives thanks to a crucial element: livestock guard dogs. These specialized canines are not merely pets; they are dedicated guardians, ensuring the safety of both animals and property in remote environments.
Beekeeper and Livestock Guard Dog at beehives in the snow
Livestock Guard Dogs (LGDs) are a unique category of breeds, selectively developed over centuries for a specific purpose: safeguarding livestock. Unlike herding dogs, LGDs do not control animal movement. Instead, their primary role is protection. While they may develop affection for their owners, their strongest bond is with the animals they guard. These vigilant protectors work tirelessly, 24/7, across diverse terrains worldwide, from Canada to Argentina and Europe to Botswana. Traditionally employed with sheep, goats, and cattle, Brookfield Farm has found them equally effective in protecting goats and even honeybee hives.
The protection of beehives is a territorial imperative for LGDs, not a result of bonding with the bees themselves. They consider the hives part of their flock’s territory, extending their guardianship to encompass these vital resources.
Livestock Guard Dog and Cashmere Goats, Brookfield Farm, Maple Falls, WA
Brookfield Farm’s journey with LGDs began during its fiber farm days, housing Jacob Sheep, Shetland Sheep, and Cashmere Goats. Even with a smaller goat herd today, the LGD remains essential, now extending protection to both goats and beehives. Despite bear scat found close to the hives, only one bear dared approach, and even then, the dog’s swift intervention prevented any significant damage.
What Makes a Good Family Guard Dog? Understanding Livestock Guard Dog Breeds
Livestock guard dogs are substantial animals, typically weighing between 100 to 150 pounds when fully grown. Their breeding history, spanning centuries, is rooted in livestock protection. Several breeds are prominent as LGDs, each with origins in different regions:
- Maremma: Originating from northern Italy, Maremmas are known for their independence, courage, and strong guarding instincts.
- Shar Planinetz: From the former Yugoslavia, Shar Planinetz dogs are robust, loyal, and possess a calm yet assertive guarding style.
- Great Pyrenees: Hailing from the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, Great Pyrenees are gentle giants with a calm demeanor, known for their nocturnal vigilance and thick coats suitable for cold climates.
- Anatolian Shepherd Dog: From Turkey, Anatolians are intelligent, territorial, and highly protective, known for their imposing size and alertness.
- Navajo Livestock Guard Dog: Developed by the Navajo Nation in the United States, these dogs are adapted to harsh environments and are prized for their hardiness and protective abilities.
2 livestock guard dogs at Brookfield Farm Bees & Honey, Maple Falls, WA
Both purebred and crossbred LGDs can be excellent guardians, provided they originate from working lines. When acquiring an LGD, visiting breeders to observe the dogs in their working environment is crucial. Investing in a quality LGD can range from $300 to $1,500 in the U.S., reflecting their value as dedicated protectors.
Bonding and Behavior: Living with a Livestock Guard Dog
LGDs are unique in their bonding process. They integrate into the livestock herd, considering themselves part of the group. Raised with livestock from puppyhood, they learn to identify with and protect their animal family. Human interaction, while present, is not the primary focus in their upbringing. They are not typically house pets; their world revolves around their livestock charges.
A young livestock guard dog (Maremma X Great Pryanees) sits with a lamb at Brookfield Farm, Maple Falls, Washington
Introducing a young LGD pup to a new home, usually after weaning, can be an adjustment. The pup must integrate into the existing herd hierarchy, learning its place from the livestock. Discipline often comes from the herd itself, teaching the pup appropriate boundaries.
Around beehives, LGD pups quickly learn to navigate carefully. While not bonding with the bees, they understand the hives are part of their territory and require protection. They learn to move deliberately among the hives, ready to defend them against predators if necessary.
The “Noisy Peace” of a Guard Dog
As LGDs mature, their protective instincts become pronounced. They are constantly vigilant, especially during peak predator activity times around dawn and dusk. They patrol throughout the night, acting as a continuous deterrent. During midday, when predators are less active, they may rest, conserving energy for their guarding duties.
Livestock Guard Dog and Beekeeper Bean in a non-working moment at Brookfield Farm, Maple Falls, WA
The primary defense mechanism of an LGD is barking. Loud, persistent barking often deters potential predators. If barking is insufficient, the LGD will position itself between the threat and the livestock, using its size and assertive behavior to dissuade intruders. Most predators, including coyotes, bears, cougars, and even humans, are likely to seek easier targets rather than confront a determined 100+ pound dog. However, LGDs will physically defend their charges if necessary. Brookfield Farm recounts an incident where a cougar claw was removed from one of their dogs, Tempus, after a confrontation – a testament to their protective dedication.
LGDs at Brookfield Farm do not bond with honeybees, but rather protect the hives as part of their territory. If a bear approaches, the dog will bark and charge, typically driving the bear away without further conflict. Once the threat is gone, the LGD returns to its watch, focused on the herd and territory. This approach has allowed Brookfield Farm to coexist with wildlife for years without harming carnivores, while effectively protecting their livestock and beehives.
Beehive Guard Cat sits on the back of Livestock Guard Dog at Brookfield Farm, Maple Falls, WA
The Lifespan and Legacy of Family Guard Dogs
3 month old Maremma puppy checks out the gates at his new home
Brookfield Farm has seen a succession of LGDs over the years, each contributing to the farm’s safety and well-being.
A Maremma X Great Pryanees Livestock Guard Dog
A poignant aspect of these devoted guardians is their relatively short lifespan, typical of large breeds, ranging from 8 to 10 years. After 15 years, Brookfield Farm is on its fourth LGD. While their lives are full and purposeful, their departures are always felt deeply. The blog post is dedicated to Tempus and Primo, past LGDs who provided years of dedicated service and allowed the farm to share its wilderness home with native wildlife. Mojo, a Maremma, is the newest arrival, taking up the mantle of guardianship and already familiarizing himself with his responsibilities.
A Maremma Livestock Guard Dog pupp
Finding Your Family Guard Dog and Further Resources
For those interested in learning more or finding an LGD, here are helpful resources:
- Capital Press Ads (Northwest U.S.): http://www.capitalpress.com
- General Information and Discussion Group (Livestock Guard Dog Association): http://www.lgd.org
- List of Livestock Guard Dog Breeds: http://caninebreeds.bulldoginformation.com/flock-livestock-guard-dogs.html
- USDA On-line Pamphlet about Livestock Guard Dogs: http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/companimals/guarddogs/guarddogs.htm
