Movements of Domestic Sheep in the Presence of Livestock Guardian Dogs 1

Livestock guardian dogs (LGD) are one of the most effective methods available to reduce depredation on livestock. The purpose of this study was to determine if the presence of LGD changes grazing behavior of domestic sheep in an environment where predators are common. Western white-face ewes (n = 560) with attending lambs were used. Ewes were 32 d and 45 d postpartum and familiar with LGD. Ewes were divided into four groups (n = 140). Within each group, 12 to 18 ewes were randomly selected to be fitted with GPS tracking collars, which were programmed to collect and record the ewe’s location and velocity at 1-s intervals. In random order, each group was assigned to graze with two LGD present for a 2-d trial period and then graze without LGD present for a 2d trial period or vice versa. A LGD Presence × Day of Trial interaction was detected (P < 0.05). On Day 2 of the trial, ewes grazing with LGD present traveled farther than ewes grazing without LGD present (8,210 ± 571 m vs. 6,797 ± 538 m, respectively; P = 0.04). No other differences were detected. This study demonstrated that ewes grazing with accompanying LGD will travel greater daily distances compared with ewes grazing without LGD accompaniment. As a result of traveling greater distances, ewes may also be exposed to more and varied foraging opportunities.