How we keep an unconventional livestock dog🐶
Rottweilers aren’t often used as livestock dogs because they are so people focused. This guy is one of a kind. Rottweilers were traditionally used as herding dogs in Germany,however they are primarily family dogs today.
Rottweilers tend to look scary which is awesome because we don’t like interlopers on our property lol. But both him and his littermate are just the sweetest dogs on earth. He is in charge of goats full time and just his presence alone is enough to deter most any predators. He shares his dog house with his wards and he lets the little ones cuddle him as long as they aren’t too rowdy. I got Warden during peak covid 2020 as a puppy and have raised him since he was 5 weeks old. However he’s only been in charge of livestock for a year and a half. This dog not only worships at my feet but listens so well. Most livestock dogs such as Great Pyrenees like to wander and jump fences, not my boy. Warden respects fences and I’ve never seen him even attempt to escape. He stays where I leave him and he knows what’s expected of him.
We also acquired a full blood Great Pyrenees female in January, her name is Judge Judy and she’s his partner in training. She is a lot more high energy than him but she’s still in her puppy phase. So many people tell me that I’m setting him up for failure by letting him have a job, they tell me he’s a vicious breed or that he’s going to end up killing the animals he cares for, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Rottweilers are the sweetest dogs, and although not every one of them is made to be a working dog, this guy surely does a good job at his💗🫶🏻
#lemon8pets #lemon8challenge #pets #dogsoflemon8 #rottweiler #livestock #homestead #farmlife
When we first decided to use a Rottweiler as a livestock guardian, many people raised their eyebrows. Traditional wisdom points to breeds like Great Pyrenees, but our experience with Warden, our striking black and tan Rottweiler with his sleek brown coat, has been truly eye-opening. He's not just a pet; he's an integral part of our homestead, proving that with the right temperament and training, an unconventional choice can thrive. From the moment Warden was a puppy, we focused on channeling his natural loyalty and protective instincts. Unlike some LGDs, Rottweilers are known for being very people-focused, which meant early and consistent socialization with our goats was crucial. We introduced him to the herd slowly, always supervising, allowing him to grow up alongside them. This hands-on approach helped him form strong bonds, viewing the goats as his family to protect rather than prey. You can often find him amidst the hay, watching over the little ones. His presence alone, with that serious guard dog look, is often enough to deter potential threats to our farm elements and our animals. One of the biggest advantages of Warden, our black livestock guardian dog, is his intelligence and trainability. We’ve been able to teach him specific boundaries, which is a huge plus compared to some traditional LGDs that have a strong wanderlust. He respects our fences implicitly, something I've heard many other farm owners struggle with. This means less worry about him roaming off or getting into trouble. His vigilant, alert posture outdoors is a constant reassurance, letting us know our rural property is secure. While Rottweilers weren't historically bred solely for livestock guarding in the modern sense, their ancestors were used for herding cattle in Germany. This historical link, combined with their inherent protectiveness, gives them a unique capability for farm work. Warden exemplifies this; he’s not just a deterrent, but an active, intelligent guardian. He understands his role and performs it with unwavering dedication. Now, with Judge Judy, our Great Pyrenees, joining the team, we’re seeing a wonderful dynamic. While she brings that classic LGD instinct, Warden provides the structure and calm authority. They complement each other, offering comprehensive protection. Having proper gear, like a reliable livestock guardian dog collar for identification and safety, is important for both of them. It's a testament to Warden that he, a Rottweiler, can work so effectively alongside a traditional LGD, proving that a dog's heart and training can make all the difference, regardless of breed stereotypes. My black and tan Rottweiler continues to amaze us every day with his capability as a farm dog.
he’s precious, i love him