- Thread starter
- #61
CharcoalDragon
Songster
- Jul 14, 2020
- 108
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Sorry, I know this wasn't directed at me, but I think the dog you're talking about is the Maremma. One of the more famous ones help bring a colony of penguins back from the brink of being wiped out by foxes. I believe this breed needs to be raised with the animals it needs to care for though- so a puppy would be in your future.I agree. Sounds like you’re well versed on this topic, Which Is why I’m going to ask your input on something related. Our old girl is on her last legs. Not sure how long she has but she is wheelchair bound. Once I feel she is suffering, I will make the hard call, but for now she is happy and gets around just fine with help. She is a German Shepard. We had her before birds. She wasn’t always good with the birds and killed a few at first. I was so upset. But we took proper precautions from there and now she couldn’t catch one if she tried. Point being, once she crosses the rainbow bridge we’ll be in the market for a new furry family member. What do you suggest not only as a compatible dog with birds but as the best inherent flock guardian? I know any dog of any breed needs training but where’s a good place to start? We now have quite the flock of very rare, very valuable birds. They don’t free range unless we’re right there but in a perfect world, it would be amazing to have a dog that could “birdsit”. Of course, I know that would always be a gamble and probably not the best idea. But I’m a perfect world, what breed would you choose in that situation? Some people have said the heeler, aussie, Border collie family but I always thought those were more for cattle, goats, sheep, ect. I’ve actually seen competitions where these breeds get pretty aggressive with their nipping on large animals like cattle. I know it boils down to training and time but I was wondering if anyone has had success with dogs like this as flock guardians? I once read about a breed that was a very large (white dog I think) that typically doesn’t like to much human interaction but loves to stay with their flock. Does anyone know what this may be? We’re set up in a way where we could make a dog like this very happy. And what about a rescue? I’m not sure if I have the patience for a pup anymore. But with that, I fear inheriting someone else’s problems or them hurting or killing birds while learning. But I suppose if you don’t exercise caution that can happen with any dog at any time. I guess I’m just looking for the best idea for the best breed for the situation. And thoughts on a pup verses an older dog.