Livestock guardian dogs have one very specific job: protecting the flock; their family.

These dogs are essential for protecting sheep from predators such as wolves, but also from stray dogs and, occasionally, from people who may harm or steal livestock.

Their behaviour should not be taken personally. They are not reacting to who you are, but simply doing their job: monitoring their surroundings and communicating that they are protecting the flock.

If you encounter a livestock guardian dog:

• Stay calm.
• If you are cycling, get off your bike and continue on foot until you have passed the flock.
• If a dog approaches you, stop if necessary and allow it to observe or sniff you before calmly continuing on your way.
• Do not run or make sudden movements.
• If you are walking with a dog, keep it on a lead at all times and close to you.
• Avoid walking through the middle of the flock. Go around it, keeping a reasonable distance.
• Carrying a walking stick may help you feel more confident.

A guardian dog’s response depends largely on how the other person behaves. Calm and predictable behaviour usually allows the dog to quickly realise that you are not a threat. It is perfectly normal for these dogs to bark—they are dogs, and barking is one of the main ways they communicate and warn of an unfamiliar presence.

Not all livestock guardian dogs behave in exactly the same way. Like any other animal, each has its own temperament, age and experience. However, a guardian dog is not trying to attack people. Its purpose is to protect the flock (or its pups) and discourage anyone or anything from getting too close.

The presence of livestock guardian dogs does not mean that walkers, cyclists or local residents need to avoid public paths or completely change their usual routes. The important thing is not to avoid these dogs, but to understand their role and know how to behave when they are working.

Understanding the role and behaviour of these dogs helps us recognise that the protection they provide extends beyond the flock. In many ways, they also help safeguard the rural communities in which they live. We all benefit from their presence.