Farm Fresh Blog

It's easy to forget that a Livestock Guardian Dog is more than just a large white lump in the barnyard by day that barks all night, and steals cat food. While Border Collies tend to steal the glory when it comes to helping out around the farm, Briar reminded me yesterday that Livestock Guardian Dogs can step up to the plate too.

It's time for the new baby goats to join the "flerd" during the day. I have sheep about to lamb and so I'm moving everyone, sheep and goats, into the yard during the day where it's easier for me and the neighbors to keep an eye on them. The adult animals know this routine. The babies? Not so much.  The older babies have it down pat, but the ones born this week aren't quite ready for prime time yet. In fact, just following their momma is a bit of stretch. It's a bit like trying to herd chickens.

I had the mom by the collar and I was leading her away but the kids just sorta stood there, staring at the world, watching us walk off. Before the momma started to panic, I called to Briar. She was watching. Briar is always watching. The big white dog shuffled over and nosed the first baby. Goose! He bolted forward. Then she nosed the second baby. Goose! He got with the program too. And thus we proceeded along - me leading the doe, and Briar goosing any stragglers.

It really worked well. Briar kept her distance until a prod was needed. It didn't take the kids too long to get the idea.  They spent the day keeping up with Momma and I'm sure Briar spent the day keeping an eye on them.