Let Them Grow Up

If you are not familiar with our training philosophy I highly suggest checking it out. I know that a lot of “hard core” LGD owners find us controversial because we actually believe in raising well rounded citizens. Dogs who have basic obedience skills and can go to the vet if needed. Dogs who have house manners and can handle emergencies, injuries, and evacuations. And in the event of a major family event, dogs who can be re-homed successfully. It is a program that has evolved over the last ten years to assist the myriad situations our members find themselves in. One of those situations is mine and that is the dog I came to tell you about.

We are located in a very rural area of Central Maine where the two legged predators are often more of a problem than the ones with four legs. At least they are honest in their behaviors and motivations. Fall is both an important and dangerous time of year here. Hunting season brings people into the Maine woods, staying in camps and lodges, intent on getting this year’s big buck. People in the woods upset the wildlife and we see a lot more pressure in the fall when their regular hunting grounds have a new predator prowling around. Hunters also bring equipment and gear on these trips and that brings two legged predators.

Fall is also an important time for stock, we have our sheep in multiple pens for breeding season, which means more areas that need to be covered by the dogs, even the small breeding pens. We also do important grazing in the fall. Acorns and dead leaves are an important addition. Providing fats and tannins to keep our sheep healthy before they head into winter quarters.

This is where Reina comes in, with all of this. She is my up-and-coming yard guardian, taking over for Bridger who is semi retired after a ten year stint. This is an important position on the farm despite the fact that there are no sheep here. My yard dogs still have an important job, ensuring my truck, belongings, mother, random chickens, and barn cats all stay safe.

Except for yesterday. I brought one of our breeding groups up to the house to eat acorns and leaves. When I brought them through the gate I called Reina to me and showed her they were here, asked her to keep an eye on them, and went back down to the big pasture to work on the barn.

I took this picture when I headed back up the hill on my lunch break. Where was Reina? Dutifully following her small band of sheep as they foraged around the hilltop.

They will tell you that they need to be with the stock from day one and never leave.

They will tell you that bringing them in the house will ruin them as guardians forever.

I say, let them grow up, give them life skills, form a relationship with them, and they will do anything you ask.

Thank you Reina.