We are often met with potential new dog owners asking us specifically if we have any females or any males for their farm. When asked why, it’s usually because it’s either what they’ve always had or what works best on their farm. Both incredibly important things to know about one’s farm.
However, specific traits seen generally across the LGD breeds are more helpful for potential livestock guardian dog owners to know. This will hopefully reduce any worry that a male/female won’t fit into your farm, and help us learn about gender specific traits.
This post and information is taken from the Guardian Way | Texas Livestock Guardian Dog Association’s three part series on the topic.
While some believe that males are more aggressive and likely to roam and protect the perimeter, and females tend to stay with the livestock, it’s crucial to remember that these are generalizations. In reality, the dog’s breeding and personality are far more critical factors to consider than gender.
Differences Between Male and Female LGDs
The following chart shows the anecdotal evidence collected from producers regarding male and female livestock guardian dogs. Many owners swear by these observations, however, scientific data to back up these claims is difficult to corroborate or nonexistent.
The disadvantages of intact dogs are real and can create dangerous problems for LGDs in a pack. Dogs are individuals, just as humans are. They all have unique personalities. However, some fundamental physical differences between male and female livestock guardian dogs may influence which gender to purchase.
Common Male LGD Traits
The larger size of male livestock guardian dogs is their most significant advantage. While both male and female LGD breeds are large dogs, males tend to be slightly taller and heavier overall. Ranchers report that male LGDs possess heightened territorial instincts, which may lead them to conduct more perimeter patrols. They mark their territory with urine during these patrols, deterring other canine predators. However, it’s important to note that females also mark their territory!
Male LGDs do have some drawbacks. They often take longer to mature, requiring more time and commitment to train them as reliable guardians. Aggression towards other dogs can be a concern with intact male LGDs; however, it’s crucial to recognize that some female LGDs can display similar aggressive behaviors. Additionally, intact males can become easily distracted by females in heat, encompassing not just those of their breed but also any nearby female dog. It’s also noteworthy that intact males may show increased aggression towards each other when vying for a female in heat.
Common Female LGD Traits
Ranchers claim that female LGDs tend to stay close to the herd or flock, providing close proximity protection. Producers also state that female LGDs are more nurturing and protective of newborn and young livestock. However, several research studies have shown no significant differences in the guarding abilities of males compared to females, or of fixed versus intact dogs. Additionally, we have not observed any differences in the guarding abilities of dogs in our own research study. We consider the anecdotal information about female LGDs to be inaccurate, based on studies conducted by other researchers as well as our LGD project findings. The primary advantage of having female livestock guardian dogs is that they mature faster. Some also suggest that they are more obedient. If this is true, it would require less training and allow more time for the dogs to serve as reliable guardians.
There are downsides to female LGDs as well. The most significant issues arise in unspayed females. Females often become distracted when they are in heat. They may focus more on reproduction than on their duties as LGDs and can become aggressive with other dogs. Their heat cycles can also create problems by attracting outside dogs and potentially distracting male livestock guardian dogs within their pack.
Female LGDs will be less effective if they have a litter of puppies that require their attention. Pregnancy can also be challenging for a female’s body. Dogs with multiple closely spaced pregnancies may wear down more quickly and be replaced sooner than spayed or neutered dogs. While not common, female dogs can interbreed with wolves and coyotes, resulting in large, dangerous feral dogs.
