Review Article

The impact of herding and guardian dogs on the behaviour and welfare of sheep

Piotr Sablik ¹, Renata Pilarczyk ¹, Małgorzata Bąkowska ², Bogumiła Pilarczyk ² , Paulius Matusevičius ³, Ramutê Mišeikienê ⁴

¹Laboratory of Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Animal Research, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland

²Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland

³Department of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilž˙es 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania

⁴Institute of Animal Rearing Technologies, Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Tilž˙es 18, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania

1. Acta Sci. Pol. Zootechnica, 23(3), 2024

Abstract. The expansion of wolves in Poland, a conservation success, simultaneously poses a challenge for livestock farmers due to an increase in attacks on flocks. In response to this threat, livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) are increasingly used, effectively protecting sheep from predators, reducing losses, and improving animal welfare. The presence of LGDs influences sheep behavior by enhancing their sense of security, promoting calmer behavior, and increasing time spent grazing and resting. Herding dogs, on the other hand, serve a different function – they assist in managing flock movement and maintaining cohesion, working directly with humans. Their presence may cause a temporary increase in stress levels in sheep due to active flock management; however, properly trained herding dogs minimize negative effects and facilitate daily husbandry tasks. Introducing LGDs to flocks requires careful planning and knowledge of livestock management principles. Early socialization is crucial – LGD puppies should be introduced to the flock at 6–8 weeks of age to recognize sheep as part of their social group and form a protective bond. Maintaining an appropriate number of LGDs in the flock is also important – generally, one dog per 50–100 sheep is recommended, though higher numbers may be necessary in areas with high predator activity. Optimizing pasture conditions includes providing sheep with safe zones that allow them to move freely and escape when feeling threatened. Understanding the different roles of herding and guardian dogs, as well as the individual responses of sheep, is essential for the effective work of dogs and for improving animal welfare under conditions of coexistence with predators.

Keywords: sheep welfare, herding dogs, stress, behavioral reactions, physiological reactions, sheep-human interaction