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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
Enjoy the fireworks and have a safe 4th of July!
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#livestockguardiandog #maremmasheepdog #prancingponyfarm #maremma #pastoremaremmano #maremmano #maremmasheepdogclubofamerica #herdguardian #maremmasmile #maremmamondays #flockguardian #workingdog
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Happy Fourth of July!
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#nigeriandwarf #nigeriandwarfgoat #prancingponyfarm #nigeriandwarfgoats #GOAT #FFA #4h #aww #happygoat #goats #dairygoats #mininubian #mininubians #dairygoat #homestead #farmlife #farm #smallfarm #nubian #nubiangoat
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Fourth of July fireworks can be scary for all dogs, and Livestock Guardian Dogs are no exception. Plan ahead to keep your LGDs and livestock safe and happy this 4th!
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#livestockguardiandog #maremmasheepdog #prancingponyfarm #maremma #pastoremaremmano #maremmano #maremmasheepdogclubofamerica #herdguardian #maremmasmile #maremmamondays #flockguardian #workingdog
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Are your livestock guardian dogs ready for the 4th of July? Mine are! I gave Trazadone and Gabapentin to my escape artist, since those dogs are the most likely to try to flee when the fireworks begin!
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❓ Do you know how to interact with a fearful dog? You should! 🐶
The most important thing to realize is that no matter how much you love dogs, not all dogs will feel the same way about you (and you should not be forcing yourself on dogs that don't). We know, it's a heartbreaking realization sometimes! 😉
Firstly, familiarize yourself with dog body language. Not only will this help you understand which dogs do or don't want to interact, but it will help keep you safe. The more you push a dog who doesn't want you touching them, the more you risk getting bitten.
What you should do:
▪ Let them approach you, when they are ready. This is not an invitation to pet. Let them investigate you. You should not offer your hand out. They can get to know you without you reaching for them!
▪ Toss treats away from you rather than insisting they take treats from your hand.
▪ Relax your body! Breathe normally, relax your shoulders, give them all of the "chill vibes".
▪ Look anywhere except their face! Some dogs prefer to not be acknowledged at all, but direct eye contact can be incredibly intimidating and threatening.
▪ Let them initiate any physical interaction or petting. Wait for their body language to loosen up, for them to approach and show interest in pets, and start by petting their chest or shoulders BRIEFLY before stopping and seeing if they'd like the petting to continue. Do not hug them or put your face in theirs.
Be patient, and play the long game if it's a dog you want to get to know. Build up their trust in you first! Some dogs may not be candidates for introductions like this if they display aggressive behavior or are too stressed by your presence.
#AnimalBehavior #PetTraining #PortlandDogs #portlanddogtrainer #positivereinforcementdogtraining #dogbehavior #veterinarybehavior #dogtraining #behaviormodification
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Just because your dog doesn't growl or bite when your child handles them roughly, it doesn't mean they should have to tolerate it. There are fallout effects to rough handling, whether it's from adults or kids. Dogs will tolerate things, until they don't.
People come to me after a dog bite and almost always say something to the effect of "we were doing XYZ and we've done that a million times before and he's always been "fine.""
But "fine" doesn't mean comfortable. Tolerating something isn't the same as actively enjoying something.
The onus is on the parent to teach children age-appropriate ways to interact with dogs.
The responsibility of safety is NOT on the dog. It is on the adults to supervise and to teach the kids, about safe interactions, about how to ask the dog for consent and to use management and barriers when an adult is not 100% actively awake and supervising. And to be clear, 100% active supervision means eyes on the dog and child, not just physically in the same room but on your phone or making dinner and distracted.
Let's reduce dog bites and increase safety for the sake of our kids and our dogs.
And as adults we need to model safe, appropriate interactions for children with our dogs.
Read more here: rescuedbytraining.com/2024/06/03/setting-good-example-for-children
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A landmark study that directly addresses this question is:
Cooper, J. J., Cracknell, N., Hardiman, J., Wright, H., & Mills, D. S. (2014). The welfare consequences and efficacy of training pet dogs with remote electronic training collars in comparison to reward based training. PLOS ONE, 9(9), e102722. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0102722
Summary of Key Findings:
Study design: This was a controlled, scientific field study conducted by researchers at the University of Lincoln. It compared three groups:
Dogs trained using e-collars (shock collars) by experienced industry trainers
Dogs trained by the same trainers but without shock
Dogs trained by independent force-free trainers using positive reinforcement only
Trainers were certified and professional, with Group A and B trainers belonging to the Electronic Collar Manufacturers Association (ECMA) and having extensive experience using the devices.
Key results:
There was no significant difference in training efficacy between the groups using shock and those not using it.
Dogs trained with positive reinforcement exhibited fewer signs of stress and anxiety.
The study concluded that the use of shock collars was unnecessary and posed welfare risks without added training benefits.
Salivary cortisol levels, behavioral stress indicators (e.g., yawning, lip licking), and vocalizations were higher in the shock collar group.
Conclusion:
The researchers explicitly stated that the use of e-collars "has negative welfare consequences for some dogs" and "no clear advantage over reward-based training"—thus the use of shock collars is not justified.
So, even if the person operating the collar is a manufacturer-trained professional, this study showed the results were no better than training without shock, and the use of electronic collars resulted in unnecessary stress.
Cindy Ludwig, MA, BS, RN, KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA
Owner, Canine Connection LLC
Voted Best Springfield, Missouri Dog Trainer
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prancing-pony-farm.kit.com/posts/the-surgery-that-could-save-your-lgd-s-life-romeo-pele-s-story
‼️The surgery that could save your LGD's life (Romeo & Pele's story)
prancing-pony-farm.kit.com
Maremma Sheepdog Breeder ~ LGD Trainer ~ Licenced Family Dog Mediator ~ Mini Nubian and Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goat Breeder1 CommentsComment on Facebook
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How to Groom Your Maremma LGD: Protecting Working Dogs from Foxtails
Prancing Pony Farm Maremma Sheepdogs & Dairy Goats June 8, 2025 7:03 am