Amber Waves - Livestock Guardians

Livestock Guardians Dogs, Donkeys, and Llamas

Herding Dogs

A herding dog is a dog that either has been trained in herding or that is a member of a breed developed for herding.

Some herding breeds work well with any kinds of animals; others have been bred for generations to work with specific kinds of animals and have developed physical characteristics or styles of working that enhance their ability to handle these animals.

The term "herding dog" is sometimes erroneously used to describe livestock guardian dogs, whose primary function is to guard flocks from predation and theft.

Livestock Guardian Dogs

Livestock Guardian Dog (LGD) breeds have been used for centuries to protect livestock from predators in Europe and Asia.

The most well-known of these breeds in the United States are the Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherds, Akbash and Maremma.

There are enough variations between the breeds, and within members of a single breed, to provide a suitable dog for most situations.

This can be provided on an open range, protecting livestock or in a suburban back yard, protecting a family.