Bonneau Ranch, LLC Glasco, KS
“A Family Adventure in America’s Heartland”

Livestock Guardian Dogs

We have chosen to utilize Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGDs) to protect our goat herd 24/7. Even though these dogs are amazing protectors and individually can protect many goats and/or sheep, we feel it is important to always have multiple dogs regardless of herd size. First, having multiple dogs allows them to split up the roles - perimeter check vs. lookout (staying with the herd). Second, predators can play tricks on a single LGD by luring him/her away from the herd while a fellow predator sneeks in from behind to grab their prey. A third reason to have multiple LGDs is to have mentors to the younger LGDs. Not only do the older LGDs function as mentors but the younger LGDs can ‘rough house’ with the older dogs - instead of the livestock!! Of course, as your herd size grows, additional dogs will be necessary to be able to keep an eye on all of the livestock. Lastly, we always want to maintain at least one extra LGD onsite in case another one would ever go down. This allows for ‘full coverage’, even when one dog has to leave the ranch temporarily (say for a Vet checkup). There will always be a minimum of two LGDs with the goats… At this time, we have three active LGDs to protect our Savanna and Nigerian Dwarf goats. Si is the ‘muscle’ of the group and typically works the perimeter of a fenced area where the goats are browsing. The other adult dog, Lola, stays with the herd and keeps a watchful eye for any problems. Our newest active guardian, Hank, is gaining valuable experience from the two professionals. He is 13 months old, and is doing a tremendous job thus far. He enjoys being around his charges and the other dogs. All three LGDs have very good composition, work extremely hard and have an even temperament.