Livestock Guards/Guardians

Livestock Guards are dogs that prevent predators from attacking their charges. These are usually large dogs able to fight off predators of any size. Although sometimes confused with herding dogs (also called sheepdogs), they protect the flock from outsiders, as opposed to sheepdogs who control the movements of the flock. Sheepdogs work with the shepherd, while guard dogs work independently and are often left by themselves with the flock.

Guards are dogs that protect persons and property. Usually they are dogs that are wary of strangers, that can sense danger and will defend their family or other charges. Most are large and imposing and weigh 75-100 lbs. They are good pets for a rural family.