Dogs can be lifesavers for livestock

Like guardian angels, guardian dogs can be lifesavers for livestock. Increasing conflicts between livestock and predatory wildlife have prompted ranchers to seek effective and affordable protection for their cattle, sheep and other livestock.

Through workshops, consultations and online resources, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension researchers help livestock producers manage and train livestock guardian dogs to effectively deter predators such as coyotes, wolves and bears. The scientists developed protocols to prevent dogs from roaming and successfully bonded more than 40 dogs with producers in Texas.

In 2024, they delivered 1,558 educational hours through field days, online training and social media. Over 1.94 million people were reached through 328 social media posts. And livestock guardian dog specialists delivered 1,793 educational hours for 7,413 contacts.

Surveys showed a 90% satisfaction rate among participants using livestock guardian dogs to reduce livestock losses to predators. Adoption of livestock guardian dogs has shown measurable economic benefits for livestock producers and 100% of the producers reported an increase in lambing percentages and $7.8 million in additional profits from employing livestock guardian dogs.

View the full statement on the NIDB.

Project supported by non-profit grants & contracts.