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Livestock Guardian Dogs are incredibly devoted protectors who take their job seriously. But sometimes, they can display behaviors that might seem concerning, like barking aggressively at something on the other side of a fence, yet being perfectly calm when that barrier is removed. This behavior, known as barrier frustration, is something I frequently discuss with my Maremma Sheepdog clients.
#AnimalBehavior #barrierfrustrationdogs #BitePrevention #CanineEnrichmentIdeas #DogbehaviorLEGSmodel #DogSafety #DogSocialization #farmdogbehaviorproblems #fenceaggressionworkingdogs #LGDBehavior #LGDmanagement #LivestockGuardianDogbehavior #LivestockGuardianDogManagement #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #Livestockguardiandogtraininginsights #LivestockGuardianDogs #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog #MaremmaSheepdogtraining #MentalStimulationforLivestockGuardianDogs #PositiveReinforcementTraining #redirectedaggressionLGDs
Livestock Guardian Dogs are incredibly devoted protectors who take their job seriously. But sometimes, they can display behaviors that might seem concerning, like barking aggressively at something on the other side of a fence, yet being perfectly calm when that barrier is removed. This behavior, known as barrier frustration, is something I frequently discuss with my Maremma Sheepdog clients.
#AnimalBehavior #barrierfrustrationdogs #BitePrevention #CanineEnrichmentIdeas #DogbehaviorLEGSmodel #DogSafety #DogSocialization #farmdogbehaviorproblems #fenceaggressionworkingdogs #LGDBehavior #LGDmanagement #LivestockGuardianDogbehavior #LivestockGuardianDogManagement #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #Livestockguardiandogtraininginsights #LivestockGuardianDogs #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog #MaremmaSheepdogtraining #MentalStimulationforLivestockGuardianDogs #PositiveReinforcementTraining #redirectedaggressionLGDs
I`m beyond thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you today. After a year and a half-long journey of countless hours of study, practice, video submissions, and assessments, I`ve officially completed the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional program. I am now a KPA Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)!
This achievement represents so much more than just adding letters after my name.
#CaliforniaLGDbreeder #CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog
I`m beyond thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you today. After a year and a half-long journey of countless hours of study, practice, video submissions, and assessments, I`ve officially completed the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional program. I am now a KPA Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)!
This achievement represents so much more than just adding letters after my name.
#CaliforniaLGDbreeder #CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog
Why Older Puppies Often Make the Best Livestock Guardian Dogs
One of the most persistent myths in the Livestock Guardian Dog community is that puppies must be acquired at the youngest possible age to bond with their new owners and livestock properly.
#CaliforniaLGDbreeder #CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #Confidentlivestockguardian #Healthtestedlivestockguardiandog #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #Livestockguardiandogtraininginsights #LivestockGuardianDogs #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog #ResponsibleDogOwnership
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/five-unknown-benefits-of-choosing-adolescent-livestock-guardian-dogs/
Why Older Puppies Often Make the Best Livestock Guardian Dogs
One of the most persistent myths in the Livestock Guardian Dog community is that puppies must be acquired at the youngest possible age to bond with their new owners and livestock properly.
#CaliforniaLGDbreeder #CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #Confidentlivestockguardian #Healthtestedlivestockguardiandog #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #Livestockguardiandogtraininginsights #LivestockGuardianDogs #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog #ResponsibleDogOwnership
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/five-unknown-benefits-of-choosing-adolescent-livestock-guardian-dogs/
I don`t know why dogs always seem to whelp in the middle of the night but it`s worth missing out on some sleep for these precious Maremma pups. Electra and Pax are the proud parents of 8 pups so far. Will there be any more? Wait and see...
If you`re in need of an amazing livestock guardian dog out of health tested parents see the link in bio for details on how to reserve a Prancing Pony Maremma.
I don`t know why dogs always seem to whelp in the middle of the night but it`s worth missing out on some sleep for these precious Maremma pups. Electra and Pax are the proud parents of 8 pups so far. Will there be any more? Wait and see...
If you`re in need of an amazing livestock guardian dog out of health tested parents see the link in bio for details on how to reserve a Prancing Pony Maremma.
Did you know? LGD puppies need specialized socialization that balances their guardian instincts with social confidence.
At Prancing Pony Farm, our Maremma puppies begin livestock socialization at just 3 weeks old, while also meeting different people and experiencing novel situations. This balanced approach helps create discerning guardians who protect against true threats while remaining confident around welcome visitors.
Read our blog post on preventing bites from LGDs. See link in bio for details.
What questions do you have about LGD socialization? Comment below!
#NationalDogBitePreventionWeek #MaremmaPuppies #PositiveTraining #ResponsibleBreeding
Did you know? LGD puppies need specialized socialization that balances their guardian instincts with social confidence.
At Prancing Pony Farm, our Maremma puppies begin livestock socialization at just 3 weeks old, while also meeting different people and experiencing novel situations. This balanced approach helps create discerning guardians who protect against true threats while remaining confident around welcome visitors.
Read our blog post on preventing bites from LGDs. See link in bio for details.
What questions do you have about LGD socialization? Comment below!
#NationalDogBitePreventionWeek #MaremmaPuppies #PositiveTraining #ResponsibleBreeding
Born: July 26, 2024 | Female | Current Weight: 70 lbs | Expected Adult Weight: 70-80 lbs
At Prancing Pony Farm, we believe the source of your livestock guardian dog is the single most important decision determining whether your experience will be a blessing or a curse.
#CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #Farmprotectiondog #FemaleMaremmapuppy #Goatguarddog #Manageablelivestockguardian #Maremmaforsmallfarm #Smallfemaleguardiandog
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/meet-violet-compact-maremma-guardian-for-versatile-farm-protection/
Born: July 26, 2024 | Female | Current Weight: 70 lbs | Expected Adult Weight: 70-80 lbs
At Prancing Pony Farm, we believe the source of your livestock guardian dog is the single most important decision determining whether your experience will be a blessing or a curse.
#CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #Farmprotectiondog #FemaleMaremmapuppy #Goatguarddog #Manageablelivestockguardian #Maremmaforsmallfarm #Smallfemaleguardiandog
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/meet-violet-compact-maremma-guardian-for-versatile-farm-protection/
A safe Livestock Guardian Dog is one who:
-Understands their job clearly
-Receives consistent positive training
-Is properly socialized from puppyhood
-Has an owner who reads their communication
During #DogBitePreventionWeek, we`re highlighting the importance of understanding LGD behavior. These amazing working dogs deserve training that respects their nature while keeping everyone safe.
Read our LGD Safety blog post for tips on preventing dog bites. See link in bio for details.
#MaremmaSheepdog #FarmLife #PositiveReinforcement #PrancingPonyFarm
A safe Livestock Guardian Dog is one who:
-Understands their job clearly
-Receives consistent positive training
-Is properly socialized from puppyhood
-Has an owner who reads their communication
During #DogBitePreventionWeek, we`re highlighting the importance of understanding LGD behavior. These amazing working dogs deserve training that respects their nature while keeping everyone safe.
Read our LGD Safety blog post for tips on preventing dog bites. See link in bio for details.
#MaremmaSheepdog #FarmLife #PositiveReinforcement #PrancingPonyFarm
Born: July 26, 2024 | Female | Current Weight: 70-80 lbs | Expected Adult Weight: 80-100 lbs
At Prancing Pony Farm, we believe the source of your livestock guardian dog is the single most important decision determining whether your experience will be a blessing or a curse.
#CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #FemaleMaremmapuppy #Goatguarddog #LivestockGuardianDogs
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/meet-daisy-a-maremma-guardian-with-character-and-charm/
Born: July 26, 2024 | Female | Current Weight: 70-80 lbs | Expected Adult Weight: 80-100 lbs
At Prancing Pony Farm, we believe the source of your livestock guardian dog is the single most important decision determining whether your experience will be a blessing or a curse.
#CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #FemaleMaremmapuppy #Goatguarddog #LivestockGuardianDogs
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/meet-daisy-a-maremma-guardian-with-character-and-charm/
Visitor protocol for farms with Livestock Guardian Dogs:
1️⃣ Use fences and locked gates to prevent bites
2️⃣ Never allow strangers to approach livestock or LGDs unescorted
3️⃣ Teach visitors proper LGD etiquette
4️⃣ Create a safe meeting space for introductions
Our Maremmas are bred for stable temperaments, but even the best LGDs need proper management!
Check out our new blog post for more detailed safety tips. Link in bio.
#FarmSafety #LGDtraining #DogBitePrevention #PrancingPonyFarm
Visitor protocol for farms with Livestock Guardian Dogs:
1️⃣ Use fences and locked gates to prevent bites
2️⃣ Never allow strangers to approach livestock or LGDs unescorted
3️⃣ Teach visitors proper LGD etiquette
4️⃣ Create a safe meeting space for introductions
Our Maremmas are bred for stable temperaments, but even the best LGDs need proper management!
Check out our new blog post for more detailed safety tips. Link in bio.
#FarmSafety #LGDtraining #DogBitePrevention #PrancingPonyFarm
Born: July 26, 2024 | Female | Current Weight: 80 lbs | Expected Adult Weight: 90-110 lbs
At Prancing Pony Farm, we believe the source of your livestock guardian dog is the single most important decision determining whether your experience will be a blessing or a curse.
#CaliforniaLGDbreeder #CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #Farmprotectiondog #FemaleMaremmapuppy #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/meet-rose-a-substantial-maremma-guardian-with-impressive-potential/
Born: July 26, 2024 | Female | Current Weight: 80 lbs | Expected Adult Weight: 90-110 lbs
At Prancing Pony Farm, we believe the source of your livestock guardian dog is the single most important decision determining whether your experience will be a blessing or a curse.
#CaliforniaLGDbreeder #CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #Farmprotectiondog #FemaleMaremmapuppy #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/meet-rose-a-substantial-maremma-guardian-with-impressive-potential/
🐾 National Dog Bite Prevention Week 🐾
As Livestock Guardian Dog owners, we are responsible for understanding our dogs` behavior.
At Prancing Pony Farm, we know that LGDs who feel secure in their role and training are less likely to make fear-based decisions. That`s why we emphasize positive reinforcement from day one!
Remember: A growl is communication, not disobedience. Never punish warning signals - instead, address what`s causing your dog`s concern.
Read more LGD safety and bite prevention tips in this week`s blog post.
#DogBitePrevention #LivestockGuardianDogs #MaremmaSheepdog #PositiveTraining
🐾 National Dog Bite Prevention Week 🐾
As Livestock Guardian Dog owners, we are responsible for understanding our dogs` behavior.
At Prancing Pony Farm, we know that LGDs who feel secure in their role and training are less likely to make fear-based decisions. That`s why we emphasize positive reinforcement from day one!
Remember: A growl is communication, not disobedience. Never punish warning signals - instead, address what`s causing your dog`s concern.
Read more LGD safety and bite prevention tips in this week`s blog post.
#DogBitePrevention #LivestockGuardianDogs #MaremmaSheepdog #PositiveTraining
Planning Ahead: Why Timing Matters When Adding a Livestock Guardian Dog to Your Farm
Unlike bringing home a pet dog - where you might only need a few days off work to help a puppy settle in - adding a Livestock Guardian Dog to your farm requires careful coordination of multiple factors: predator pressure, livestock acquisition, proper fencing, training time, and overall farm development.
#Farmprotectiondog #Goatguarddog #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #LivestockGuardianDogs #Maremmaforsmallfarm #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/last-chance-why-you-need-to-reserve-your-livestock-guardian-dog-this-week/
Planning Ahead: Why Timing Matters When Adding a Livestock Guardian Dog to Your Farm
Unlike bringing home a pet dog - where you might only need a few days off work to help a puppy settle in - adding a Livestock Guardian Dog to your farm requires careful coordination of multiple factors: predator pressure, livestock acquisition, proper fencing, training time, and overall farm development.
#Farmprotectiondog #Goatguarddog #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #LivestockGuardianDogs #Maremmaforsmallfarm #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog
https://prancingponymaremmas.com/last-chance-why-you-need-to-reserve-your-livestock-guardian-dog-this-week/
Watch These Maremma Sheepdogs Protect 300 Chickens & Cattle | Perfect Teamwork
Interesting read. Most of it doesn't apply to what I have experienced but it's still interesting.Ever wondered why there maybe more of one gender than the other in a litter?
Put the kettle on... time for a brew and a five minute read 😀😀
pupstartsbreeders.com/male-vs-female-puppy-ratio/
You are welcome!
#blogpost #education #pupstartsbreeders #breederlife #breeder #dogbreeder #puppies #pups #blog #ShareThisPost
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As an ethical breeder and trainer I couldn't have said it better myself! The "adopt don't shop" rhetoric only enables puppy mills and backyard breeders while penalizing ethical breeders who work hard to breed healthy, well-socialized puppies and to support our clients after the sale.
As a Maremma breeder and trainer I not only provide lifetime client support I have a LIFETIME return policy on my dogs, so no dog I bred ever needs to end up in a shelter. People have a right to have the dog they want, adopted or shopped. Just PLEASE, whichever choice you make do it responsibly.
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Livestock Guardian Dogs are incredibly devoted protectors who take their job seriously. But sometimes, they can display behaviors that might seem concerning, like barking aggressively at something on the other side of a fence, yet being perfectly calm when that barrier is removed. This behavior, known as barrier frustration, is something I frequently discuss with my Maremma Sheepdog clients.
What is Barrier Frustration?
Barrier frustration occurs when dogs cannot access something they're interested in or feel they need to investigate because a physical barrier (like a fence) prevents them. This frustration can manifest as:
- Intense barking or growling
- Lunging at the fence
- Running back and forth along the barrier
- Digging near the fence line
- Apparent aggression toward whatever is on the other side
What's fascinating is that many dogs who display these behaviors might be completely relaxed and social when the barrier is removed.
#AnimalBehavior #barrierfrustrationdogs #BitePrevention #CanineEnrichmentIdeas #DogbehaviorLEGSmodel #DogSafety #DogSocialization #farmdogbehaviorproblems #fenceaggressionworkingdogs #LGDBehavior #LGDmanagement #LivestockGuardianDogbehavior #LivestockGuardianDogManagement #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #Livestockguardiandogtraininginsights #LivestockGuardianDogs #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog #MaremmaSheepdogtraining #MentalStimulationforLivestockGuardianDogs #PositiveReinforcementTraining #redirectedaggressionLGDs
Why Your Livestock Guardian Dog Gets Frustrated: Simple Solutions That Work
prancingponymaremmas.com
Livestock Guardian Dogs sometimes display aggressive barking at the fence line, yet remain perfectly calm with the same triggers when barriers are removed. This phenomenon, known as barrier frustratio...0 CommentsComment on Facebook
I'm beyond thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you today. After a year and a half-long journey of countless hours of study, practice, video submissions, and assessments, I've officially completed the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional program. I am now a KPA Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)!
This achievement represents so much more than just adding letters after my name. It's the culmination of years of learning, growing, and developing my skills as a breeder and trainer. It's about my commitment to providing the absolute best for my Maremma Sheepdogs, my clients, and all the animals I work with.
My Journey to Certification
In previous blog posts, many of you have followed parts of my journey through this program. What started as a dream slowly transformed into a reality, though not without its challenges!
#CaliforniaLGDbreeder #CaliforniaMaremmabreeder #LivestockGuardianDogTraining #MaremmaLivestockGuardianDog
A Professional Journey & Dream Come True: I’m Now a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner
prancingponymaremmas.com
I'm beyond thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you today. After a year and a half-long journey of countless hours of study, practice, video submissions, and assessments, I've officially c...5 CommentsComment on Facebook
For some reason, a lot of people see using food in training as some form of corruption, like if they use food the dog will like them less. Let me tell you this secret - it's not true. In fact, the opposite is true. I know, I know. You want your dog to work because they love you or because you're in charge. Nope. You don't work for free and neither do dogs. No matter how much you love your job, you go to work to get a paycheck. Are you being bribed to go to work? No, you earned that paycheck with the work you're doing and that paycheck keeps you coming back week to week.
rescuedbytraining.com/2025/04/28/food-in-training-isnt-bribery/
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Did you know that a 2020 study found that using e-collars for training recall, amongst other behaviours, showed no significant increase in efficacy vs reward-based training? In fact the only times there was a significant difference was to show that reward-based training worked better! 😲
Not only is there no real evidence that shock collars are beneficial in training, there is evidence of the damage they can do. According to the British veterinary association 'research has shown that the application of an electric shock to dogs or cats, even at a low level, can cause physiological and behavioural responses associated with stress, pain, and fear.' and they are 'concerned that the use of electric shock collars to punish or control dogs or cats is open to abuse and can cause welfare and training problems. '. .
Shock collars have actually been banned in multiple places across the world, due to the risk they pose to animal welfare, including Sweden, Germany, Finland, and even Wales. Unfortunately, they are still currently legal in other areas of the UK such as England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. But, because of all of these above reasons, we, along-side other force-free dog trainers, support a ban of aversive tools such as shock collars in the rest of the UK.
So, if a trainer ever says to you you NEED to use a shock collar to get training results, there is scientific proof they are lying, and immediately find yourself a new trainer qualified with up-to-date and proven reward-based methods. ✅
You can check out the study mentioned in the graphic for yourself here: www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00508/full?fbclid=IwY...
And the British Veterinary Associations full stance here: www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/electric-shock-collars-and-training-aids/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJ...
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
I have said this over and over in relation to breeders and it is 100% true of trainers. As a consumer you need to educate yourself on what matters to you and then ASK very specific questions of any breeder or trainer you are considering working with. Then ask to see PROOF of what they say:
Breeder: Do you health test your breeding dogs? What are the results? Are the parents working LGDs? (For my breed.) Are the puppies raised with livestock? From what age? What does your socialization and training program for puppies include? Can you show photos proving all of the above? Do you offer a health guarantee? What's in it? Can I see a copy? Do you offer lifetime breeder support and a lifetime return policy? In writing?
For trainers: What training methods do you use? What "tools" do you use? Do you use aversives at all? What certifications do you have? What courses have you taken? Can you show me photos or videos of you training dogs? What other trainers do you admire? What training books do you recommend?
You have to ask questions to get to the truth because some people will use slick talking to confuse you. And some don't even know what they stand for, themselves.I was working at a park recently where another trainer was also working. They worked with 3 dogs over the course of the afternoon. All of them on e-collars.
The trainer's website states that they use positive reinforcement techniques and are committed to ethical training. There's no mention of e-collars or physical punishment anywhere. So an unsuspecting owner looking for a rewards based trainer would be forgiven for thinking this trainer might be a good fit for them.
If it's important to you to find a trainer who doesn't use physical punishment or force the ONLY way to to do that is to ask an explicit question and make sure you get a clear, unequivocal answer...
"𝘿𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙡𝙨 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙥 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙨, 𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙨, 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙨, 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙨, 𝙗𝙤𝙣𝙠𝙚𝙧𝙨?"
Don't rely on what a website or a Facebook page might say...they are marketing tools, remember. Always, always ask if it's important to you....even if you think you already know the answer. It's up to you to be an informed consumer and understand the product you're buying.
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(𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘰𝘶𝘣𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴𝘯'𝘵 𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘭𝘴. 𝘐𝘵'𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘤𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘶𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴, 𝘰𝘸𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳, 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘶𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘰𝘣𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘥𝘴)
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prancing-pony-farm.kit.com/posts/why-older-lgd-puppies-could-be-your-perfect-match
Why Older LGD Puppies Could Be Your Perfect Match!
prancing-pony-farm.kit.com
Maremma Sheepdog Breeder ~ LGD Trainer ~ Licenced Family Dog Mediator ~ Mini Nubian and Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goat Breeder0 CommentsComment on Facebook
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Why Maremmas Make Perfect Family Protectors
Prancing Pony Farm Maremma Sheepdogs & Dairy Goats April 24, 2025 4:50 am