Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) are underutilized in managing the impact of wild dogs and dingoes across Australia, according to Erin Williams, founder of Livestock Guardian Dogs Australia. Speaking at the inaugural Livestock Guardian Animal Forum in Canberra last month, Williams emphasized the potential of LGDs as a non-lethal solution to the growing problem of wild dog and dingo predation.
The forum, which brought together livestock producers, researchers, and policymakers, focused on the role of livestock guardian animals—such as Maremma dogs and donkeys—in protecting livestock. Williams highlighted the success of LGDs in the United States, where predator baiting is banned, and suggested that they could offer a viable alternative to lethal control in Australia if properly managed and implemented.
However, Williams cautioned that LGDs are not a one-size-fits-all solution. “In some situations, they are the answer, but not in all cases,” she said. She pointed out that LGDs have been particularly effective in regions where predator baiting is not an option, adding that their success depends on proper training, management, and handler education.
A key issue Williams identified is the widespread misinformation surrounding LGDs, which she believes has led to skepticism about their effectiveness. “Misinformation sets producers up for failure, which then leads to a negative perception of the dogs as a viable option,” she explained. She stressed that with the right training and support, LGDs could be the key to managing wild dog and dingo populations in many areas.
Dr. Julie Brown, a livestock producer and veterinarian, echoed Williams’ views, noting that LGDs work best when used in combination with other tools, such as fencing and, in some cases, lethal predator management. “There is no silver bullet to predator control, especially on large, extensive grazing properties where livestock are spread out,” said Dr. Brown. “Guardian dogs are incredibly effective when implemented correctly and when predator pressure does not exceed their capabilities.”
The forum also featured insights from National Wild Dog Management coordinator Greg Mifsud, who praised the event for fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Mifsud acknowledged that while guardian animals have proven effective in reducing the impacts of wild dogs and dingoes, they are not foolproof. “Landholders have reported losses even with guardian animals present,” he said. “However, when used as part of a broader predator control strategy, they can be highly effective.”
The forum, hosted by the National Wild Dog Action Plan and supported by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, explored the effectiveness of LGDs across Australia’s varied agricultural landscapes. It sought to identify factors that could improve the success of livestock guardian animals in different grazing and production systems. The discussions and outcomes from the forum will help shape the national strategy for managing wild dog and dingo impacts.
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