From the Ground Up: Breeding dogs to protect livestock

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) - Dogs are our furry friends and loyal companions, but in the agriculture industry, they serve a different purpose. The Texas A&M Agrilife Livestock Guardian Dog Program strives to increase the understanding and use of canines in the ranching industry.

Many dogs are bred for specific purposes. Border Collies for herding, Labrador Retrievers for hunting, and livestock guardian dogs for protecting.

A Program Specialist with Texas A&M Agrilife, Bill Costanzo, says one of the key differences between livestock guardian dogs and typical domestic dogs is the “natural instincts of what’s called prey drive have been bred out”.

This genetic design changes not only a dog’s behavior, but can also result in a few distinct physical features too. Most livestock guardian dogs have droopy ears and short snouts. They are also typically very independent and habitual, with an innate ability to problem solve.

The Texas A&M Agrilife Livestock Guardian Dog Program works closely with local ranching communities to develop research and educational activities that reduce livestock and wildlife conflict. It is a tall order, and not every dog that enters the program is up for the challenge. If a dog presents instincts like biting or chasing, they will often fail out of the program, and Costanzo says, “they would be better suited as a pet”.

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