Predator Management

By Bill Costanzo, AgriLife Extension LGD program specialist III and owner of Rafter C Consulting

Overview of the AgriLife Livestock Guardian Dog Program

The Texas A & M AgriLife Livestock Guardian Dog( LGD) Program was started in 2019 to address persistent livestock losses to predators in Texas and across the western United States. Sheep and goat producers, in particular, face ongoing challenges from coyotes and, increasingly, from other predators, including aerial threats, bobcats, town dogs, mountain lions, black bears and, in some regions, wolves.

The AgriLife LGD Program integrates applied research, producer education and on-ranch demonstrations to improve the effectiveness, management and long-term success of LGDs as a non-lethal predator management tool. In the past six years, the program has bonded and trained more than 40 dogs that are working on Texas ranches. The program is the only one of its kind in the U. S.

The program aims to reduce livestock losses to predators through improved LGD management, improve producers ' understanding of LGDs and promote science-based predator strategies. Through publications, workshops, field days, consultations and research, it emphasizes practical decisionmaking for ranches. LGDs are a management tool, not a universal fix, and require intentional use within ranch systems.

Observed Success and Limitations Against Large Predators

Research published by UC Davis in 2023 shows that LGDs reduce lamb losses to coyotes by 43 % annually in observed operations, highlighting both the successes and limitations of LGDs in protecting livestock from large predators. These findings align with decades of peer-reviewed research documenting reduced depredation rates in operations using well-managed LGDs. Producers in the AgriLife LGD Program bonding project have reported up to 100 % increases in lamb crops after one year of LGD use.

Producers in regions with large predators have reported significant reductions in livestock losses after implementing LGDs, especially when dogs are properly bonded, kept in adequate numbers and supported by effective fencing and husbandry practices. Scientific studies confirm these observations, showing lower mortality in flocks protected by LGDs than in unprotected flocks exposed to large predators.

Producers also need to recognize LGD limitations. In areas with wolves or high predator densities, LGDs are not always effective. Research shows LGDs can reduce attack frequency and disrupt predation, but they do not eliminate the risk. Wolves often test guarded flocks, especially when livestock are dispersed or the dogs are outnumbered.

Realistic expectations and adaptive management based on predation levels are needed. Producers should assess their risk tolerance and willingness to adapt strategies, such as increasing

16 | 800-247-2000 | 515-955-1600 | February 2026