Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) are working dogs used to protect sheep and other livestock from predators. Their welfare needs are often poorly understood and underserved on farms.
Livestock guardian dogs occupy a unique welfare space - their protective role is valuable and compatible with good welfare when managed correctly, but poor management leads to isolated, under-socialised animals with untreated injuries and diseases. Crucially, LGDs require regular human contact and handling from puppyhood to remain safe and socially functional. Dogs left entirely to fend for themselves, even with flocks to bond with, often develop behavioural problems and suffer from parasites and injuries that go unnoticed. A welfare-conscious approach treats LGDs as working companions with the same care standards as any farm dog.