Would a dog deter hawks?

[LilRalphieRoosmama]

I've never had a predator problem until now, and I have to think that the presence of the dog did help. We had a yellow lab who never bothered the birds. When he was outside, he'd just lay on the back porch or walk the yard. Once DD moved out this past summer and took him with her, I've had nothing but problems and have to keep them locked up 24/7 unless I'm there to supervise. The animal control officer even recommended that I get a dog, but I'm preparing to move and don't have time to properly care for one right now.

I really think that the presence of the dog (including the urine and scent) helped to keep the raccoons, hawks, and other vermin away, but I would not get a dog strictly for this purpose. Get one because you want one if you have the time to devote to caring for it properly and in return it could work to your benefit.

 

[pride&joy]

I have to agree the only way to for sure stop a hawk is to cover the run. A dog even a LGD (live stock guardian breed designed to have less prey drive) will take training, care and time before any real results can be expected. Even then it may keep the hawk from having it’s diner but that would be after the fact. My Anatolians will track the hawks here where I live and bark and chase at them if they perch within sight. Of coarse I encourage this but I have train dogs for a living. LGD’s are great but most need a job to have if not provided with enough work to occupy their minds their idle jaws and paws will wonder onto trouble. Fence in the run and get a dog only if you want a dog then strongly consider and LGD. But what do I know?

[/URL]mg] notice the white chick in the midle?