If you have backyard chickens, you’ll want to start to think about adopting livestock guardian dogs for chickens. This is to help safeguard your flock.
Why chicken owners need livestock guardian dogs
Livestock guardian dogs (LGD) can help to make sure that unwanted predators don’t harm your chicks. For example, LGDs can ward off animals including raccoons, coyotes, and owls. Additionally, LGDs can also keep nefarious people away from your chickens.
However, it’s important to adopt the right breed of dog with the right temperament if you’re considering an LGD. Also, your living situation will help determine whether a male or female LGD is best for your chickens.
Here’s what you should know about the best livestock guardian dogs for chickens.
Traits of good livestock guardian dogs for chickens
Firstly, you’ll want to choose a dog that shows some of the best traits for guarding chickens. For example, a good LGD needs to have a calm temperament. This is so they don’t get too excited or angry when around lots of clucking chicks all day.
Secondly, your LGD needs to demonstrate a strong protective instinct. Your LGD will need to know that your chickens are part of the family and need protection.
Thirdly, an LGD should take well to training. This is so that you can set boundaries and protocols for what to do if a predator approaches the chicken coop.
Fourthly, you’ll need to consider size and agility when adopting an LGD. Your dog needs to be able to physically ward off predators — and also step into action when needed.
Finally, it’s worth considering whether a male or female LGD is best for your needs. In short, male LGDs can be physically larger but often roam away from the coop. However, female LGDs tend to stay closer to the chicks and can bond with them more quickly.
Great dog breeds for livestock guardian dogs for chickens
There are a number of dog breeds that make great LGDs. For example, some of the best breeds to consider include:
- Old English Sheepdog
- Great Pyrenees
- Anatolian Shepherd
- Pyrenean Mastiff
- Kuvasz
- Maremma Sheepdog
- Puli
- Akbash
- Komondor
Generally, these breeds are intelligent dogs who take to working tasks easily and showcase strong protective instincts.
Additionally, the size of these breeds means that potential predators will know to stay away from your beloved chickens!
Finally, feel free to speak to your local vet or rescue shelter to ask if they have any recommendations for dog breeds that do great as local LGDs.
Training livestock guardian dogs for chickens
Generally, your LGD will need to be trained to protect your chickens. This is because many dogs have an initial instinct to kill animals like chickens. For example, some of the key ways to train an LGD include impulse control and recall training. This is so that your LGD doesn’t become overexcited or roam too far away from your chickens.
Additionally, socializing your dog so that they get used to being around your chickens is key. For instance, you can start by walking your dog on a leash near to the chicken coop. Reward your dog’s good behavior with treats! Similarly, your LGD will benefit from being rewarded whenever they show calm behavior around the chicks.
Also, making sure that your dog understands the “drop it” command is one of the most useful training tools for LGDs.
Finally, it’s best to keep your dog’s early training sessions short. This is so that your LGD doesn’t lose focus or become bored.
Now that you know all about livestock guardian dogs, check out the best dog breeds for your homestead and the best LGDs to be guardian dogs!
