Introducing your Puppy to Livestock

 Our pups are socialized with livestock from the start, under the direction of our experienced livestock guardian dogs. We recommend spending time bonding with them while you're feeding and tending to livestock as they get acquainted with their new home and livestock. 

 Our pups are taught basic manners -- not to jump, nip, chase, roam, or bark excessively for no reason. They have excellent recall by the time they are between 5-7 months old. We encourage our buyers to continue reinforcing good manners and building trust with their new LGD. This will be essential for managing your LGD around livestock. 

 As well trained as they are with the stock they currently guard, we recommend exercising caution whenever introducing new livestock. One way to do this is by allowing the puppy to become familiar with the scent of the livestock before direct contact. You can do this by bringing items that carry the animal's scent to the dog's living area. 

 You can also train the LGD to walk on a leash and to respond to commands while on the leash. This gives you a little bit more control than relying on verbal commands alone. 

 Start by allowing the dog to observe the livestock from a distance while you supervise. Let the dog get used to the presence and movements of the animals. 

 Introductions should occur naturally and gradually. Don't force either your livestock or your new LGD to interact with stock right away. Try to keep aggressive or reactive livestock (e.g., goats that butt) away from your dog until both the dog and the livestock become acclimated to each other. We recommend introducing your LGD to one or two calm and friendly animals that are used to the presence of dogs. Allow the dog and livestock to sniff each other and observe their reactions. 

 Reward the dog with treats and praise when it behaves calmly and positively around the livestock. This reinforces good behavior and earns the respect of your LGD. An LGD that trusts and respects you is eager to do what you ask and will follow your lead. 

 Over several days or weeks, expand the interactions to include more livestock and different types of animals. Continue to supervise closely. 

 Always keep an eye on the LGD when it's with the livestock. Be prepared to intervene if the dog shows any signs of aggression or excessive interest in chasing the animals. 

 Once you are confident in the dog's behavior, you can allow it off-leash in the presence of the livestock. Continue to monitor closely during this phase. 

 Ensure that the LGD has access to shelter and water near the livestock. This allows the dog to protect the animals effectively in all weather conditions. 

Ongoing training and socialization are essential. Continue to reinforce good behavior and address any issues promptly.  Spend time with your LGD regularly to strengthen the bond between you and the dog. When in doubt, please reach out to us for lifetime training support. We want you and your LGD to be set up for a successful partnership!