What's the best dog for protecting the flock?

[McGoo]

I've been researching different dogs for protecting my gals. I was hoping to not have to get a really large dog, but I definitely want an easy dog that's good with people, other dogs and children. Any ideas? What's been your experience?

 

[brooster]

The best watch dog is a guinea the second best is a goose.

 

[sclanimals]

I bred Rat Terriers for that purpose. Mine have always earned their keep by being our protectors. I watched a Rattie take on a HUGE raccoon and win once. Awesome Dogs!!!

 

[McGoo]

guess I should have mentioned that I have a hawk problem and unfortunately they like guineas and geese. I'm thinking about a big dog that's really going to deter hawks.

 

[newchickowner]

I have an Aussie and she's awesome!!!

She's about 60 lbs.

 

[Critter Crazy]

I have a rottweiler! he is awsome, even if he does steal the chickens scraps on occasion!

 

[newchickowner]

My aussie does that too. The chickens steal her dog food all the time. So I guess she returns the favor when I come out to treat the chickens! She's so funny! I'm sure she is the single most important reason I haven't lost any chickens since she came along! She's always patrolling our property!!!

 

[blueroo]

I think it might depend on the dog. It would need lots of training I would assume. I usually see dogs kill chickens.

 

[tiki244]

Annatolian Shepherd- they are tha best they look like a big cream colored st bernard-ya gotta get em when they are 8 weeks old and raise them in with the chickens- then a border collie or aussie for backup

the annotolian shepherd guards the birds

the border collie/aussie-well i dont know what they do

 

[newchickowner]

Just look cute and jump around like "whater we gonna do today Spike? Huh? Huh?"