Livestock Guardian Dogs
Livestock Guardian Dogs (often referred to as LGDs) are an important tool in defending livestock against the predators that live on or migrate through our rangeland.
We have a large flock of hair sheep, known for being meat breeds, (as opposed to wool breeds) and our lambs and ewes are at risk of predation from local coyotes, mountain lions, and stray dogs. Our LGDs are members of our flock and aid in protecting them from these predators. One of our dogs also helps protect poultry.
We have a variety of LGD breeds represented, all being a mix of breeds.
Examples include:: Akbash, Anitolian Shepherd, Maremba, and Pyrenees.
How We Raise Our LGDs
All of our dogs are loyal, courageous, and want to work.
As puppies, they are raised with sheep and have an instinctual desire to protect against threats to their flock. We limit human interaction because they can often get spoiled and distracted from their work. Some of our dogs are more friendly to humans than others, but all are generally okay around people. They are often wary of strangers (unless you are Paloma and Blanca).
Our dogs receive daily care and observation. We feed high-quality kibble and give them raw meat, routinely. These are working ladies and gents and they need lots of calories. We monitor body condition. Our dogs also receive regular veterinary care.
If you have reached this page because you have met one of our dogs in your travels around Paicines, please give us a call if the dog is loose or seems to be in danger.
Otherwise, if the dog is in a pasture and is content, please leave them be. Wave but do not pet, please.
Nancy Sorgatz
Events and Catering - Paicines Ranch
831.744.2876
Meet the Paicines Ranch Pack
Clyde - "The Old Man"
Mentors our younger dogs and enjoys relaxing mid-day in the middle of the flock. He often looks like a sheep when he is lying about.
Dip
Our eldest female, she works with both sheep and poultry. She is essential to our pasture poultry program. Her squinty eyes have always caused an audible “aw” from visitors. Though she is usually barking loudly at any visitors. She is sweet and fierce.
Blanca
She is often found working the perimeter of a pasture and area on the rangeland. She knows all the good holes and likes to be picked up along Cienega Road at night, after chasing a coyote off the property. Thankful for good samaritans.
Paloma
Blanca’s sister. Is our alpha female. She dedicates a lot of time to patrolling and defending. She can be found under a nearby tree on a hot afternoon. She may look lazy then, but once the sun begins to set, she sure is not.
Oso - "The Big Man"
At two years old (2023), he is hitting his stride and is truly a good guard dog. Known for his booming bark and alertness toward anything that is out of the ordinary or threatening. He is fast and athletic. Weighing in at 115 lbs.
Ursa
Oso’s brother. While not as large as his brother still extremely athletic. Loyal, curious, and fierce.
Wally
The youngster in the group - one year old (2023). Wally is learning the ways of guardianship from his elders. He pals around with Clyde and Oso a good deal. We’re happy with his desire to stay with the flock and alertness.